The help with writing that it offers students and the immediate feedback. Also, the ability to upload links and GIFS/videos. As an instructor, it's easier for me to read through responses than Canvas' discussion forums.

The format encourages students to explore a topic within the class that they find interesting, which they find really motivating and engaging. I was surprised at how much students got engaged with the assignments when they started writing about something they were really interested in exploring. Packback also gives students feedback on reference and citation use, and ensures that AI generated content is limited in their assignment submissions. All of this is managed by giving students direct feedback and the ability to improve their work iteratively. Some students have even noted that this is a great jumping off point to help get them started on research ideas. And importantly, packback can provide this type of learning support in very large online classes, where instructor time, resources, and support would not make this level of feedback possible otherwise. An excellent critical thinking based assignment for large classes! Also, the platform is very easy to link to a course Canvas page, which is easily done with support from their great customer service.

It solves a big problem for me: how to keep student engaged on a weekly basis while developing their own voice and critical thinking skills. As I have been forced to teach bigger and bigger classes, I fear students become passive without some constant interaction. The asynchronous discussion Packback provides solves this problem wonderfully, and is superior to the Canvas discussion tools I had used before. I especially love the ease with which I can check on the group's performance, personalize feedback to students who are missing work, and praise and feature students who are doing well. I can bring their questions into class and use that as the start of the discussion, which is a great boost for them. Also, the Deep Dive function has greatly increased my efficiency in grading papers. I had to do read 160 last term, and it wasn't a nightmare! Lastly, the person-to-person interface with Packback's employees has been consistently excellent. I have never had a problem they couldn't solve, and it is usually taken care of well within 24 hours. That really made the difference for me as instructor.