What is a Hyperdoc?

A hyperdoc is a collection of resources that have been grouped together by an educator with the aims to have students explore and investigate the resources in a safe and efficient manner. It is a method of instruction where students are able to teach themselves through the resources that are provided. It diverges from the traditional teacher-worksheet combination and offers new and alternative ways for students to learn on their own. A Hyperdoc can be a Google Docs, or even a Google Slides Presentation they can include videos, photos, website links, and more. There are many ways for it to be formatted, but ultimately they all share the same function.

Using HyperDocs in the classroom

By creating a Hyperlinked document, teachers are able to collect the resources that will best lead their students to the objectives of the lesson. This eliminates the potential dangers that students may face by having to surf on the Internet for information that may have them end up on websites that may not be suitable for them. Being able to link videos for students to watch via programs like EdPuzzle or having them look at resources on websites such as padlet can be a great way to begin implementing HyperDocs into the curriculum.

Where can I create or find Hyperdocs?

Being able to create your very own hyperdoc is a great advantage to using the format. Educators can use programs like EdPuzzle, Jot Form, Padlet, Google Doc, and more to link their resources, therefore creating a hyperdoc. Whether it be videos for the students to watch on EdPuzzle or an interactive Google Slides presentation that students can examine on their own time, creating a Hyperdoc does not require much more work than planning an in class activity for students. Even more so, utilizing hyperdocs that have already been made that align with your lesson plan prove to be even more effective in using hyperdocs as a tool to help students develop a deeper understanding of the material at hand.

Conclusion

Hyperdocs are a phenomenal way for the students in a classroom to be able to access information when the educator might not be able to give them directly. Including the virtual benefits, and the opportunity for the resources to be shared with others, Hyperdocs create an immersive and interactive environment. They are also able to provide insight on how the students interact with the materials, and how effective they found it as students. Overall, it is a great resource for all educators to use in their classrooms.