Freeform

Written by Eric Hills

Last published at: February 16th, 2023

What is Freeform?

Freeform is a collaborative whiteboarding app that works on iPads (16.2 or higher) and MacBooks (13.1 Ventura). You can add images, text, sticky notes, shapes, icons, and even documents to a board and then share it and collaborate live with anyone. Freeform could be used by students to work together in brainstorming on a topic, solve a math problem, create a storyboard for a video project, or share key documents for a large project. When completed, Freeform boards can be shared with a link or exported as a PDF.

Why use it?

Freeform is an easy to use app that allows for easy real-time collaboration between students and teachers. It also supports creativity with the shapes and icons you can add in addition to the drawing tools. 

How do I use it?

You must be updated to iPadOS 16.2 or MacBook Ventura 13.1. Freeform is then installed on your device by default.

Written Directions

  1. Ensure that your iPad is updated to 16.2 or MacBook is updated to Ventura (13.1). 
  2. Sign into iCloud with your school-issued Apple ID (K12 email address for staff, @shakopeeschools.org email for students).
  3. Open the app and start drawing, typing, creating!
  4. If you want to share, tap on the share button in the upper right. Click on "Copy Link" and send it via email to collaborate. 

Video Directions



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