Within the current digital epoch, taking learning to a virtual platform has been a steep learning curve for several educators. Amid this, a unique tool has emerged, bringing hope for a more organized and effective virtual classroom – “Class”, an add-on for Zoom. Let’s dive deep into the journey of Class, the brainchild of the same genius behind the legendary online classroom tool “Blackboard”.
1. Origin Story of Class
Class was conceived during the global pandemic, which forced almost all educational activities to move online. The creator of Class, Michael Chasen, geared his efforts towards aiding teachers to make more effective use of Zoom.
2. Genesis of an Innovative Mind
Chasen’s journey as an innovator started in college where he and a friend conjured the idea for Blackboard, the pioneering classroom organizational tool. Ingeniously designed to streamline instructional activities online, Blackboard significantly influenced the approach to virtual teaching and learning.
3. Converging Zoom with Class
The integration of Zoom and Class is no mere coincidence. Zoom’s widespread use during the pandemic highlighted its limitations in the educational sphere, triggering Chasen to fill this void with Class. This novel Zoom add-on morphs the standard video conferencing platform into a comprehensive online classroom.
4. A Journey from Billions to Start-up
Blackboard, Chasen’s initial creation, wasn’t just a vital archetype for virtual classrooms. It was a success in monetary terms as well, with an acquisition value of $1.64 billion in 2011. But for Chasen, the endgame wasn’t just about profits. It was about revolutionizing digital education. Hence, Class came to life, embarking on a mission to reshape virtual learning.
5. Exploration beyond the Pandemic
Despite its conception during the pandemic, Class isn’t confined to it. The objective extends to refining the online learning experience persistently, even post-pandemic. With Class, digital education is no longer a makeshift alternative but a full-fledged option with room for exploration and expansion.
6. The Future is Class
Class signifies the next phase in the evolution of digital learning. By resolving Zoom’s educational limitations, it unfolds a new possibility of a more structured, engaging, and effective online classroom. This could potentially empower educators globally, enhancing the overall efficiency of online pedagogy.
To sum it up, Class emerged from the innovative mind of a man looking beyond the conventional realms of online learning. From its inception at the midpoint of a global crisis to its promising future, it stands as a testament to limitless innovation in the world of digital education. The journey of Class serves as a vivid reminder of the extraordinary influences one creative mind can have on society.
Credit: BBC. TechCrunch, Reuters
