Bulletin Boards versus Topics

Bulletin boards and Topics both act as a dynamic way for teachers to organize and share classroom information and resources. They use flexible Responsive Web Design layouts and multiple content types can be added to each including Text, Links, Downloads, Photos, Audio, Video, and Embeds. Since these two tools are so similar, teachers often confuse how to use each one.

Your Bulletin board is a snapshot of your class and should be used to post general class information that remains static through the duration of the class. This can include:

  • Description of classroom and your objectives

  • Classroom policies and procedures

  • Parent information

  • Quick links like how to build a bibliography, use the scientific method, etc.

  • Classroom specific content like photos, videos, etc.

Topics should be used for a specific unit or area of focus for a class. This can include:

  • Units of study

  • Curriculum

  • Assignments

  • Field trips

  • Classroom activities (e.g., debates, presentations)

Bulletin boards are designed for static content related to your class and Topics are better suited for organizing different units and areas of study. For example, the Bulletin board for a Biology class may include the syllabus, grading rubrics, and laboratory policies. And the class may include separate Topics covering Mammals, Amphibians, and Birds.

There are also a few differences in how Bulletin boards and Topics function and the features available:

  • Import materials: You can import Topics from other classes and school years, as well as import topics other teachers have shared in the Topic Bank. For Bulletin boards, you can import most content from your own classes in the current and previous school years.

  • Number of content types: Topics allow teachers to use content types multiple times. For example, if you need two separate video sections in a topic, you can drag the Video content type onto the Topic twice and add different videos to each instance of the video widget.

  • Add assignments and LTI: Assignments and LTI can be used with Topics. Assignments and LTI are not available on Bulletin boards.