Perusall is a collaborative annotation platform designed for students and educators to work together on digital documents. It allows users to annotate, highlight, and discuss documents in real-time, making it an excellent tool for online learning. One of the features that Perusall offers is the ability to track tabs, which can be a valuable tool for instructors to monitor student engagement and participation. In this article, we will explore how Perusall tracks tabs and provide tips on how to stay safe online while using the platform.
Understanding Perusall’s Tab Tracking Feature
Perusall’s tab tracking feature allows instructors to monitor which tabs students have opened and how long they have spent on each tab. This feature is designed to help instructors assess student engagement and identify areas where students may need additional support. The tab tracking feature is based on the idea that students who are actively engaged with the material are more likely to have multiple tabs open, such as the assignment, notes, and research articles. By tracking tabs, instructors can gain insights into student behavior and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly.
How Perusall Tracks Tabs
Perusall uses a combination of browser cookies and JavaScript to track tabs. When a student logs into Perusall, the platform sets a cookie in their browser that allows it to track the student’s activity. The cookie collects information about which tabs the student has opened, how long they have spent on each tab, and other metadata. This information is then sent back to Perusall’s servers, where it is analyzed and presented to instructors in the form of engagement metrics.
| Tab Tracking Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Time on Tab | The amount of time a student spends on a particular tab |
| Tab Opens | The number of times a student opens a particular tab |
| Tab Closes | The number of times a student closes a particular tab |
Staying Safe Online with Perusall
While Perusall’s tab tracking feature can be a valuable tool for instructors, it’s essential to prioritize online safety and security. Here are some tips for staying safe online while using Perusall:
- Use a secure browser: Make sure your browser is up-to-date and has the latest security patches installed.
- Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra layer of security to your Perusall account and makes it more difficult for unauthorized users to access your account.
- Be cautious with links: Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources, as they may be phishing attempts or malware.
- Keep your operating system up-to-date: Ensure your operating system has the latest security patches and updates installed.
- Use a VPN: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data.
Best Practices for Online Safety
In addition to the tips above, here are some best practices for online safety while using Perusall:
- Use strong passwords: Choose passwords that are unique and difficult to guess.
- Monitor your account activity: Regularly check your Perusall account for any suspicious activity or unauthorized access.
- Keep your device secure: Ensure your device is free from malware and viruses by running regular scans and updates.
- Be aware of phishing attempts: Be cautious of emails or messages that ask for sensitive information or try to trick you into revealing your login credentials.
- Report suspicious activity: If you notice any suspicious activity or unauthorized access to your Perusall account, report it to the Perusall support team immediately.
Can I opt-out of Perusall's tab tracking feature?
+Yes, you can opt-out of Perusall's tab tracking feature by adjusting your browser settings or using a private browsing mode. Additionally, instructors can disable tab tracking in their course settings.
Is Perusall's tab tracking feature secure?
+Perusall's tab tracking feature uses industry-standard encryption and security protocols to protect user data. However, it's essential to follow best practices for online safety and security to minimize the risk of unauthorized access or data breaches.
In conclusion, Perusall’s tab tracking feature can be a valuable tool for instructors to monitor student engagement and participation. By understanding how Perusall tracks tabs and following best practices for online safety and security, users can ensure a safe and secure experience while using the platform.
