Using Mersive Solstice to Create Meaningful and Effective Active Learning Experiences

What is Solstice?

Solstice is a next generation bring-your-own device sharing and collaboration tool for classrooms.

Solstice allows multiple devices and users to connect to one display and: share content simultaneously, annotate shared content live, share their screen or saved media and more.

Solstice Active Learning On-Demand Demo

Ways to access from learner perspective?

There are two ways to connect to Solstice: App-free and App Enhanced Mode

1. App-free: Connect directly through your device screen sharing (e.g chrome cast, miracast, air play, and browser). Allows for screen sharing only and does not require any software or downloads.
2. App Enhanced Mode: Download the Mersive Solstice App this will allow screen and media sharing, annotation, live camera streaming and more. The Mersive Solstice app is needed for every device that wants this functionality.

Note: Not everyone connected has to use the same mode, some users can use App-Free while others use App Enhanced mode.

Ways to access from educator perspective?

1. App-free: Connect directly through your device screen sharing (e.g chrome cast, miracast, air play, and browser). Allows for screen sharing only and does not require any software or downloads.
2. App Enhanced Mode: Download the Mersive Solstice App this will allow screen and media sharing, annotation, live camera streaming and more. The Mersive Solstice app is needed for every device that wants this functionality. Faculty also get the moderation tool; which allows the approval or removal of any content shared to any Pod in the classroom.
3. Active Learning Mode: Download the Mersive Active Learning App. Active Learning mode allows the educators to seamlessly moderate collaborative learning for example, by broadcasting any pod’s content to other displays without interrupting the other pods. This allows one Pod’s display to ‘mirror’ to any combination of other Pods’ displays. A room specific authentication code is needed.
   • During the pilot if faculty would like to use the Active Learning Mode they should send an email request to bench@musc.com.

Note: After the pilot period, Active Learning control will be available on the room control touch panel located on the podium.

Example of a Learning Journey (With App Enhanced and Active Learning Mode)

1. Educator presents content to entire class (Sharing one to all: Educator to students)
2. Students are placed in groups, each group is assigned a pod. Each group share materials needed to complete collaborative task. (Small group interacting with each other)
   • Option 1: All students are app free if only screen sharing is required
   • Option 2: App enhanced if students need to share media, annotate or adjust display layout. Usually only one group member may need this.
3. Educator moderation
   • Using the active learning mode educator highlights one group’s activities by sharing their pod on all displays.
   • Using the active learning mode educator facilitates each group sharing content one at a time.

Pedagogical and Technology Integration Considerations for Success

When preparing students for an active learning journey using Mersive Solstice or any other technology, educator’s should consider the following pedagogical principles:

1. Communicate Clear Learning Objectives:
   • Clearly define the learning outcomes and objectives for the active learning session.
   • Communicate these objectives to students so they understand the purpose of the activity.
2. Orient and Familiarize Students to the technology:
   • Introduce students to the Solstice platform during the first class.
   • If technical presence is needed during the first uses, ITFR A/V can be scheduled either through 25Live (“request AV Support”) or by calling 792-9000.
   • Provide a brief orientation on how to connect, share content, and collaborate using Solstice.
   • Encourage students to explore the features and practice using them.
   • Ensure that students are comfortable with the technology.
   • Address any technical issues promptly. Remember the Classroom Technology/AV team is here and available to help by calling 792-9000.
3. Cultivate Active Participation and an Inclusive environment:
   • Emphasize the importance of active engagement.
   • Encourage students to contribute, ask questions, and collaborate during Solstice sessions.
   • Foster a participatory classroom culture.
   • Ensure that all students have equal access to Solstice.
   • Address any accessibility concerns.
   • Be mindful of diverse learning needs and backgrounds.
4. Designate time for learning Collaboration Skills:
   • Teach students effective collaboration skills.
   • Discuss how to work together, listen actively, and build on each other’s ideas.
   • Use Solstice to facilitate group discussions and collaborative activities.
5. Foster Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
   • Design activities that require students to analyze, synthesize, and apply knowledge.
   • Use Solstice for real-world problem-solving scenarios.
   • Encourage students to think critically and creatively.
6. Use aligned formative Assessment Strategies:
   • Align assessment methods with active learning goals.Consider formative assessments during
   • Solstice sessions (e.g., quizzes, polls, discussions).Provide timely feedback to guide student learning.
7. Promote Reflection and Metacognition:
   • Encourage students to reflect on their learning experiences.Discuss how Solstice enhances their understanding and collaboration.
8. Embrace Continuous Improvement and Reflective Practice:
   • Collect feedback from students about their Solstice experiences.Use this feedback to refine teaching strategies and adapt to student needs.
   • Regularly reflect on teaching experiences with Solstice considering what went well and areas for improvement.
   • Seek peer feedback and collaborate with colleagues.

Remember, successful implementation of Solstice involves a balance of technology, pedagogy, and student engagement. Faculty who embrace these principles can for their students.

Learn More

1. How Solstice Active Learning Transforms Active Learning Spaces.

Acknowledgement: Julaine Fowlin and Damon Amella contributed to the creation of this post.