The Benefits of Padlet in Online Writing Retreats

Abstract

This case study describes the use of Padlet to enhance writing skills among postgraduate students during online academic writing retreats amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Four online writing retreats were held at the University of Waikato providing uninterrupted writing time, mentorship, peer support networks, and question and answer sessions for students. Padlet was used as a collaborative tool, enabling students to engage with each other, share resources, and express their thoughts on a virtual bulletin board. The study reveals that Padlet facilitated collaboration, engagement, and the development of academic writing skills among students by fostering a supportive online learning community. Despite potential limitations such as interface clutter with large groups, overall Padlet proved to be a valuable asset in supporting student learning, collaboration, and community building in virtual environments during the writing retreats.