MYFest26: Exploring Messaging Apps as Pedagogical and Community Building Tools

MYFest info at https://myfest.equityunbound.org/ Jenny Michaels and Heather Kretschmer host this MYFest session held on July 16, 2026. "Exploring Messaging Apps as Pedagogical and Community Building Tools". This session gives participants the opportunity to discover how messaging apps can support learning and foster connection in educational settings. In 60 minutes, participants will explore free messaging tools such as GroupMe, WhatsApp, and Zoom Workplace. For each tool, we’ll examine key aspects—including functionalities, data privacy, accessibility—and discuss different ways educators are using them in teaching and facilitation. We’ll also brainstorm together to develop practical, easy-to-implement ideas for our own contexts. Those who wish to continue the conversation after the session are invited to add their ideas, resources, and experiences to our collaborative document.