Flipgrid: A video tool trending among teachers

Video aided teaching continues to boom even as schools are opening again. Apps that assist in teaching also continue flooding the market since hey clearly have takers. One such app is the immensely popular Flipgrid video discussion tool by Microsoft. It’s not new, in fact, it was invented in 2014. But after Microsoft acquired it, the marketing became stronger, and the pandemic has given the app a big boost.   

How does Flipgrid work?  
Flipgrid allows teachers to post "Topics" that are essentially attractive videos with some accompanying text. This is shared with students, who are notified to respond. The response is also a video, so students enjoy it. One can make videos using the app camera, and post it against the original Topic. Videos can be recorded as many times as needed before uploading, and have the option to add emoji, text, stickers, drawings, or customised stickers. Flipgrid works online, so it can be accessed on any device from any web browser and on any device. There are 2 requirements: the device should have a camera and internet connection. Flipgrid is a free tool.   

Why do students like Flipgrid?  
Flipgrid allows students to speak to their group without the pressure of a classroom response. Since students are given the time to respond when they're ready, and tweak a response before they post it, Flipgrid is welcomed by students who like the fun of group interaction as well as the shy ones who feel left out in class.  Besides, they like peppering answers with emoji and stickers, while creative students get a chance to showcase their editing skills by combining text and video.  

Why do teachers prefer Flipgrid?  
Many institutes as well as private instructors don’t have the time to look at experimental apps. Flipgrid has the solidity of being a Microsoft app, so choosing it for the compatibility, level of service and stability are very practical reasons of preferring it. Besides, not all teachers like live video sessions. Flipgrid gives them the option of going live or using a well-prepared video presentation. So, it saves them time while remaining customisable.