eBackpack

Editor's Note: eBackpack is no longer available.

eBackpack is a great solution for teachers looking to collect, review, grade, and return digital assignments to their students. Like other learning management systems, eBackpack not only allows for submitting digital work, it also gives teachers the ability to annotate student work for feedback. In addition to the website, eBackpack has an iPad app that supports on-screen annotation with a finger or stylus. eBackpack can integrate with existing student management systems to automatically import student data.

When teachers sign up for eBackpack, they can create users and classes. If the tool is connected with the school’s existing student database, classes and students may show up automatically. Teachers can create assignments, set due dates, and indicate whether late submissions are accepted. Once students submit an assignment, the teacher can review, grade, and return it to the student. Feedback is limited to virtual sticky notes. From their home screens, students can see returned assignments, view the teacher feedback, and submit revisions.

Students and teachers can use eBackpack across a variety of subject areas. The tool is best suited for grades 6-12. One of the downsides to eBackpack is that the feedback can only be provided in written form at this time. For students with learning differences or who struggle with reading, this could be a cause for frustration. In addition, the eportfolio (digital portfolio) that the students create stays hidden within the eBackpack system and isn't viewable outside of the system. What happens to this portfolio once students leave the school? It also keeps students from asking for feedback from a wider audience.