Objective
This article provides faculty with guidance for implementing Breakout Learning in their courses. You'll learn how to prepare your course, introduce Breakout Learning to students, monitor participation, and access training and support resources.
Environment
- Michigan State University (MSU)
- Breakout Learning platform
- D2L
- Computer with internet access
- MSU NetID and password
- Instructor access to participating course(s)
Before You Begin
Before implementing Breakout Learning in your course, make sure you:
- Have confirmed your course's participation in Breakout Learning.
- Have access to the Breakout Learning platform and instructor resources.
- Have reviewed any onboarding materials and implementation guidance.
- Have identified when and how Breakout Learning activities will be incorporated into your course.
- Understand any student participation expectations or assignment requirements.
- Have shared relevant student instructions and course communications.
Steps
1. Plan Your Course Integration
- Review available Breakout Learning activities and resources.
- Determine where activities align with your course learning objectives.
- Decide whether participation will be required, graded, or recommended.
- Establish timelines and deadlines for student completion.
2. Introduce Breakout Learning to Students
- Explain the purpose and value of Breakout Learning activities.
- Provide students with access instructions and links.
- Share any participation expectations and deadlines.
- Encourage students to contact you or support resources if they need assistance.
3. Monitor Student Participation
- Review available participation and completion information.
- Send reminders to students who have not yet completed required activities.
- Use student engagement data, when available, to support student success.
4. Reinforce Learning
Breakout Learning activities can help students:
- Build career-ready and workplace skills.
- Apply classroom learning in real-world contexts.
- Develop communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- Reflect on professional growth and future career goals.
5. Share Feedback
- Provide feedback on your implementation experience.
- Share recommendations for future improvements.
- Contact the Breakout Learning team with questions, concerns, or enhancement ideas.
Additional Information
Tips for Success
- Introduce Breakout Learning early in the semester.
- Clearly communicate expectations and deadlines.
- Connect activities to course concepts and learning outcomes.
- Encourage students to reflect on how the experience relates to their academic and career development.
- Review support resources before launching activities with students.
Faculty Support
For questions related to course implementation, training, instructional best practices, or the Breakout Learning Enterprise Use Agreement at Michigan State University, contact:
Lynn Foucrier
Project Manager, Office of the Provost
Michigan State University
Email: foucrie1@msu.edu
Eduarda Vieira
Breakout Learning Account Manager
Email: eduarda.vieira@breakoutlearning.com
For technical issues, contact:
Breakout Learning Support
Email: support@breakoutlearning.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How much class time is required?
The amount of time varies depending on the activities selected and how they are integrated into the course.
Can Breakout Learning be used in online, hybrid, and in-person courses?
Yes. Breakout Learning is designed to support a variety of instructional formats.
Can activities be assigned outside of class?
Yes. Many faculty choose to assign activities as homework, supplemental learning, or course requirements.
Where can I find implementation ideas and training materials?
Additional resources are available through the Breakout Learning onboarding and training website.
Related Resources
- Breakout Learning Student Guide
- D2L Help Resources
- MSU IT Support
- Course-Specific Teaching Resources
Additional Training and Resources
Looking for additional guidance beyond this article? Visit the Breakout Learning + G&W: A Quick Reference for Training and Onboarding website for resources to help you get started with Breakout Learning, explore available features, and learn more about implementation and support options.
The website includes information on:
- Getting started with Breakout Learning
- Platform navigation and key features
- Instructor onboarding resources
- Course integration strategies
- Additional support materials and documentation