By Sean Connick | Published: 20th July 2023
What is Threads?
Threads is a mobile application developed by Instagram that enables users to create and share threaded conversations. With Threads, users can post their threads, engage in replies with others, and follow profiles of interest. These threads and replies can encompass various forms of content, including short text snippets, links, photos, videos, or any combination thereof. By following specific profiles, individuals can conveniently view the threads and replies posted by those profiles directly in their feeds and on the profile pages.
What type of education can be delivered on Threads?
Threads can cater to various learning styles, making it a valuable tool for students in their studies. Here are different learning styles that can be applied on Threads:
Interactive threads encourage active participation and engagement from followers. Incorporate elements like polls, quizzes, or challenges to promote hands-on learning and interaction.
Visual utilizes visual content such as photos, videos, infographics, or visual representations to effectively convey information, enhance understanding, and capture the attention of learners.
Auditory emphasizes audio content and conversations within threads. Share audio clips, podcasts, or recordings to deliver educational content and facilitate discussions through spoken words.
Reading/Writing highlights text-based content and reading materials. Share informative posts, articles, blogs, or written explanations that encourage reading, reflection, and written interactions within the thread.
Why could that be different from others?
Threads' integration with other social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, facilitated by their shared parent company, can make it a more effective tool in the Digital Classroom toolkit. This integration allows for seamless cross-platform sharing and engagement, expanding the reach and impact of educational content.
However, despite its advantages, educational professionals may exhibit reluctance in leaving Twitter for a newcomer like Threads. This hesitation can stem from the years invested in carefully constructing a target audience on Twitter. Educators may have established a strong presence, community, and following on Twitter, making it a trusted platform for sharing educational content and engaging with peers.
Transitioning to a new platform requires time and effort to rebuild an audience and establish a presence. Moreover, educators may be apprehensive about the potential fragmentation of their online presence by shifting their focus to a different platform.
How does it differ from its rivals?
While Threads and Twitter may seem similar initially, there are significant differences that set them apart. Let's explore some critical distinctions between these two platforms:
Threads does not have paid account tiers or display ads, whereas Twitter offers various account tiers and incorporates advertisements into users' feeds.
If you possess a verified checkmark on Instagram, it carries over to Threads due to their connection. In contrast, Twitter has a separate verification system.
Deleting a Threads account requires deleting the associated Instagram account, which may not be ideal. Twitter, on the other hand, offers independent account deletion options without affecting other platforms.
Currently, Threads is exclusively available as a mobile app, while Twitter offers multiple options for accessing the platform, including desktop and mobile applications.
Threads impose a 500-character limit for posts, whereas Twitter's character limit is set at 280.
Photos shared on Threads are not automatically cropped, allowing users more control over image display. Additionally, Threads supports videos up to 5 minutes in length, while Twitter has its video length limitations.
Are there any examples?
Threads is widely adopted by universities globally, including prestigious institutions like Harvard University, The George Washington University, the University of Oxford, and The University of Edinburgh. Its popularity continues to grow as universities recognize its value in enhancing online learning experiences for students.
Comments