Jamboard is a Google tool which provides an avenue for users to brainstorm ideas through displaying images, text, videos, and other forms of information on virtual whiteboards called Jams. With a Google account, users can access Jamboard on any device via the web or on the Jamboard app.
Jams that are created by users can either be kept private or shared with others via links, email addresses, or exported PDF files. The sharing feature on Jamboard promotes team discussions and collaborations, as teachers and students can work together on jams in real time.
Note: Google has announced that Jamboard will be phased out between October 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024. Jamboard files can be exported to PDF or migrated to another platform but after October 1, 2024 new Jamboards cannot be created.
Jamboard’s functionalities allow for both personal and group tasks. With the use of Jamboard, teachers can promote creativity among students by encouraging students to brainstorm and jot down ideas on Jamboard for visualization and analysis.
Jamboard can be used:Because Jamboard is a Google Workspace tool, it allows for integration of Google products such as Google Slides and Google Classroom. Once Jams have been created, students and teachers can save them on Google Drive for easy retrieval. Aside from other Google Workspace tools, Jamboard can also be integrated with some Learning Management Systems (LMSs), such as Canvas and Microsoft Teams.
Jamboard is free and accessible to all, although some age restrictions may apply for children below age 9. For children below 9, access to Jamboard can be granted if their guardians create child accounts from family link accounts created on Google. Jamboard allows up to 50 people to collaborate on a single jam. For each Jamboard, 20 Jams, which equate to slides, are allowed.
The cloud-based app permits users to access content on Jamboard using screen readers. An on-screen keyboard also exists as an alternative for using physical keyboards.
Jamboard protects users’ confidentiality, as users on a Jam are not privy to who posted on a Jam. In addition, information shared on Jamboard is kept secure and not shared with other parties.