Questions
- How do I use Padlet in my Canvas course?
- How do I log in to Padlet as a Bowdoin instructor?
- How do students access a Padlet I've added to Canvas?
- What can I use Padlet for in my course?
- Is Padlet integrated with Bowdoin's single sign-on?
- Where can I learn how to use Padlet for teaching?
- Do students need a Padlet account to participate?
Environment
This article applies to faculty and instructors at Bowdoin who want to use Padlet as a collaborative tool in their Canvas courses. Students access Padlet through links created in Canvas — no separate setup is required on their end.
- Platform: Any supported browser on a Mac, Windows PC, or iPad
- Audience: Faculty and instructors
- Note: Padlet accounts are separate from Bowdoin accounts; the SSO integration is indirect
Resolution
Padlet is an online virtual bulletin board where students and instructors can collaborate, share links, post images, and reflect in a secure shared space. Common teaching uses include:
- Brainstorming and mind mapping
- Online student portfolios
- Graphical discussion boards
- Asynchronous peer feedback and reflection
- Classroom discussion activities
How to Access Padlet as an Instructor
- In a browser, go to bowdoin.padlet.org, or use the Padlet tile at login.bowdoin.edu.
- Select Continue with Bowdoin SSO.
- Sign in with your Bowdoin username and password on the Bowdoin Single Sign-On page.
Padlet accounts are separate from Bowdoin accounts. The SSO integration provides a convenient sign-in path, but your Padlet account is maintained independently by Padlet. Changes to your Bowdoin account do not automatically update your Padlet account.
How Students Access Padlet Through Canvas
Students access Padlet through links you create in your Canvas course — they do not need to set up a Padlet account beforehand. Student accounts are created automatically the first time they access a Padlet through Canvas.
For step-by-step student instructions, see Accessing a Padlet from your Canvas course page (Students) in the Related Articles section.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources