Breakout Tables allow instructors to create dedicated spaces for focused, small-group discussions where participants can only communicate with their tablemates. These tables function independently from the main classroom, meaning participants cannot hear the instructor or podium speakers unless they move to a non-breakout table.
How to Designate Breakout Tables
To set up breakout tables, follow these steps:
- Switch to Table mode by going to the audio settings in the bottom left corner of the screen, and then select Table mode.
- The Tables tab will open to display all the tables.
- Click the diamond icon in the upper left corner of each table you want to designate as a breakout table.
- Click Cancel breakouts at the top of the screen to stop Breakout mode.
Effects of Breakout Tables
- Participants at breakout tables cannot hear the instructor or podium speakers. Instructors and TAs should use the chat feature to send announcements.
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The Raise Hand button is disabled for participants at breakout tables.
Participants cannot be placed on panels while at a breakout table. - Random table arrangements and split-by-poll table arrangements DO NOT affect breakout tables. If an instructor creates a random table arrangement, learners at breakout tables will not be moved.
- Participants can choose to join or leave breakout tables. However, if the instructor locks all tables, movement is restricted.
Use Cases for Breakout Tables
Breakout tables provide flexibility for different instructional strategies. Here are some use cases:
1. Focused, Undisturbed Group Work
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Learners working on long-term projects or problem-solving tasks need uninterrupted collaboration without external distractions from podium announcements.
2. Private Instructor-Led Small Group Support
- Staff can work with struggling learners for targeted intervention without disrupting the rest of the class.
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This allows remediation, scaffolding, or differentiated instruction in a private setting.
3. Confidential Peer Discussions
- Some topics require sensitive conversations (e.g., ethics discussions, personal reflections, etc.).
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Breakout tables ensure privacy and psychological safety to create safe spaces for learners to express their thoughts without outside disruptions.
4. Role-Playing & Simulations
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Breakout tables allow different groups to engage in simulations or negotiations without disruptions from speakers on the podium.
5. Competitive Team-Based Learning
- When running gamified activities, breakout tables prevent teams from potentially overhearing answers or strategies from speakers on the podium.
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This is ideal for quizzes, escape rooms, or business simulations.
6. Designated Independent Work Zones
- Some learners might need a quiet, focused environment to work individually while others engage in group activities.
- Breakout tables provide an area for learners who need extra concentration time.
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This is useful for writing, research, or exam preparation.
7. Instructor Strategy Meetings for Teaching Assistants (TAs) or Facilitators
- Instructors can meet privately with TAs, a Co-Instructor, or discussion leaders without disrupting the main session.
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This is useful for coordinating lesson adjustments in real time.
8. Parallel Workshop Spaces for Differentiated Instruction
- Each breakout table can run a different activity based on skill level, interest, or learning path.
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This ensures that learners are engaged with relevant, targeted materials.
9. Private Oral Assessments or Check-Ins
- Instructors can conduct individual or small-group oral exams, thesis defenses, or progress check-ins.
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These discussions remain private, ensuring a low-pressure setting.
10. Pre-Event or Post-Event Debriefing Spaces
- For webinars, conferences, or guest lectures, breakout tables can act as private preparation or debrief rooms.
- Panelists, facilitators, or select learners can regroup before rejoining the main session.
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