Steps for Implementation 

1. Acknowledge WhatsApp Groups Early

1. Naming the existence of these groups at the start of the semester reduces their “shadow course” effect and opens a conversation about how students can use them constructively.

2. Frame WhatsApp as a Community Tool

1. Invite students to view the chat as a place to:

   1. Share reminders

   2. Clarify logistics (while checking course materials)

   3. Support one another with encouragement and resources

   4. Build a sense of community

2. Instead of policing the chat, offer guiding principles such as:

1. Check course materials before responding to a peer’s question

2. Bring concerns directly to the instructor

3. Avoid speaking on behalf of “everyone”

4. Share information responsibly and respectfully

3. Create Reliable Course Information Channels

1. A clear FAQ

2. Consistent announcements

3. Standardized rubrics

4. Nominate a Student Liaison to Bring Forward Questions or Concerns

Instructors sometimes feel overwhelmed by misinformation surfacing in WhatsApp groups. One way to reduce this burden and to create a healthier, more transparent flow of communication is to invite a student volunteer (or a small rotating pair) to:

1. Monitor the group for confusion or recurring questions

2. Bring concerns, misunderstandings, or “hot topics” directly to you

3. Verify information before it spreads widely

4. Serve as a bridge between the group’s informal conversations and the official course communication channels

5. Encourage Direct Communication

1. When students say things like “we all think…” or “the group said…,” it may reflect herd mentality rather than consensus. Gently redirect:

   1. “I appreciate you bringing this directly to me.”

   2. “Let’s look at the actual policy together.”

6. Offer Transparency From the Start

1. Explain how decisions are made (grading, deadlines, TA roles). Students are less likely to speculate when they understand the structure of the course.

Instructor Planning Guide

1. Before Class

1. Decide how you’ll address WhatsApp groups from Day 1

2. Establish communication norms

3. Consider whether you want a student liaison

4. Prepare proactive responses for common points of confusion

5. Identify relevant DCE support contacts

2. During Class

1. Listen for comments that may have originated from chat discussions

2. Provide clarity promptly

3. Reinforce norms of respectful, accurate communication

4. Maintain consistency across TAs

3. After Class

1. Reflect on how WhatsApp activity may have shaped student attitudes

2. Update FAQs or announcements as needed

3. Debrief with colleagues to normalize the experience

4. Document patterns for future improvement

Instructor Checklist

• I acknowledged WhatsApp groups early and framed them positively
• I provided clear expectations for constructive use
• I established reliable communication channels
• I nominated (or considered nominating) a student liaison for questions and concerns
• I addressed confusion quickly and calmly
• I monitored emotional impact and sought support when needed
• I documented insights for continuous improvement

Resource: Leveraging WhatsApp to Cultivate Learning Circles in the Classroom