[Chat] Chat Feature to be able to turned on for only a one unit

[GarthLategan]

Problem statement:

Problem: The current lack of subject-level chat control in Canvas poses challenges for both teachers and students. The absence of this feature means that the chat is either enabled or disabled for all subjects across the learning management system, limiting the ability to tailor communication options to specific subject needs. This system-wide approach may lead to missed opportunities for collaboration, hindered student engagement, and potential misconduct concerns. Use Case: Let's consider a use case scenario in a university setting to illustrate the problem and the need for subject-level chat control. Use Case: Biology Course In a Biology course, the instructor wants to provide students with an interactive learning experience that fosters collaboration and discussion. However, they are concerned about potential distractions or inappropriate use of the chat feature. Without subject-level chat control, the instructor faces two options: Enable Chat System-Wide: By enabling the chat feature across all subjects, the instructor risks the possibility of students using it for non-academic purposes or engaging in misconduct during assessments. This concern may lead the instructor to disable the chat system-wide, depriving students of a valuable communication tool. Disable Chat System-Wide: Alternatively, the instructor may choose to disable the chat feature system-wide due to concerns about potential misconduct or distractions. However, this decision may limit students' opportunities to ask questions, discuss complex topics, or collaborate in real-time, which are important components of a Biology course. With subject-level chat control, the instructor can make an informed decision for the Biology course based on its specific requirements and the maturity level of the students. They can choose to enable the chat feature, allowing students to engage in academic discussions, share resources, and ask questions relevant to the subject matter. This targeted approach ensures that the chat feature is used purposefully and responsibly, mitigating misconduct risks while enhancing the learning experience for Biology students. In this use case, subject-level chat control would provide the instructor with the ability to tailor the communication options to the specific needs of the Biology course, allowing for a more effective and engaging learning environment.

Proposed solution:

My proposed solution is to introduce the ability to turn on the chat feature at the subject level within the Canvas learning management system. This means that instead of having a system-wide setting for the chat feature, teachers would have the flexibility to enable or disable chat for each subject they teach. Benefits of Subject-Level Chat Control: Enhanced Teacher Control: By allowing teachers to enable or disable the chat feature at the subject level, they gain full control over its use within their specific courses. This enables them to make informed decisions based on the subject's requirements, learning objectives, and the behavior of the students. Customization and Flexibility: Different subjects have varying needs when it comes to communication and collaboration. Some subjects may benefit greatly from real-time chat discussions, while others may require more focused and structured interactions. Subject-level chat control allows teachers to tailor the learning environment to best suit the specific requirements of their subject. Mitigation of Misconduct Concerns: One of the reasons your university has turned off the chat feature system-wide might be due to concerns about misconduct or misuse. By implementing subject-level chat control, teachers can carefully assess the maturity and focus of their students within each subject. This allows them to enable chat for subjects where students are likely to use it responsibly and productively, reducing the fear of misconduct. Support for Advanced Students: Ph.D. students or other advanced learners often possess a higher level of maturity and self-discipline. For such students, the chat feature can be a valuable tool for engaging in deeper discussions, sharing resources, and collaborating on research projects. Subject-level chat control enables teachers to provide this communication channel specifically for subjects where it can benefit advanced students. Incremental Implementation: Introducing subject-level chat control offers a gradual approach to reevaluating the use of the chat feature. Instead of making a sudden system-wide change, teachers can start with subjects where they believe the chat feature can be utilized effectively and responsibly. This allows for a controlled environment to assess its impact and make adjustments if needed before expanding its use. In summary, implementing subject-level chat control in Canvas provides teachers with increased control, customization, and flexibility in managing the chat feature. It addresses concerns related to misconduct while enabling advanced students to benefit from productive and purposeful chat interactions.

User role(s):

admin,instructor

[KristinL]

Hi @GarthLategan -

There is an existing idea that sounds like it would help you accomplish what you outlined.

[Chat] Feature Option -- seems like it would allow teachers to turn chat on and off at the course level. If that would allow you to arrive at the same solution, we will merge your request into it. Let the Community know what you think. 

With Instructurecon next week, responses may be a bit delayed, but we'll do our best to reply promptly!

[KristinL]

Hi! I hope you are doing well.

If you are unable to provide an update regarding this idea by August 10, we will merge it with the above thread to help the Community Team focus on current Ideas. If you need more time, that's okay too! Providing an update before that time would be helpful and appreciated.