Sunday, March 30, 2014

ClassDojo: New Messaging Feature

The geniuses at ClassDojo are at it again! ClassDojo has another update to its already awesome tool. They have added a messaging feature that will allow you to send direct messages to parents, and allow them to message you back. This works much like text messaging on your phone. There are a couple of things that have to be set up first, but it is easy and painless, and will be a great addition to your behavior tracking & parent communication in your classroom!

Set Up:
First, you must have your parents "join". You can print out sign in codes to send home (this is really important at the student level as they should be able to track their own behavior). Once parents get the code and they set up their account you can begin. You will see which parents have set up accounts in your dashboard (see the first image below). From there you can start to send out messages when needed. It works well, but does require the teacher to use the iOS or Android app in order to do (can't do it form the web interface); however, the parent can access messages from the web.


Below are a couple screen shots of it in action.

Invite parents with a code


Open "Messaging" on app start


Communicate Away! (Teacher iPad app)


Parents get an email notification

This is what the parent web interface looks like 


If you have not tried this, give it a shot. It is a great way to keep your parents informed of great achievements or issues that arise during the day.