Loop Use Case - flexible low friction collaboration

Loop Use Case - flexible low friction collaboration

Audience

Teaching staff who are looking for a common and flexible tool for student project work.

Prerequisites

LSE account with full access to the MS Office365 suite.

What is Microsoft Loop?

Loop is a new Microsoft tool that enables real-time, component-based collaboration across Teams, Outlook, and other 365 apps. Users can co-write live blocks of content like lists, tables, and text that stay in sync.

About Loop

Does it integrate with Moodle?

Not yet. However, links to Loop components can be shared and embedded where supported.

Why use it?

  • Build shared documents across multiple tools

  • Co-author plans, brainstorms, or shared content blocks

  • Keep elements synced across messages and platforms

  • Support flexible, low-friction collaboration

Hypothetical Example

A departmental tutor sets up Loop components for each dissertation group to track tasks, collect references, and collaboratively develop outlines — all embedded in their Teams workspace for easy access.

How might students use it independently?

Students can use Loop to manage shared to-do lists, write joint reports, or brainstorm ideas asynchronously across devices.

Digital/Web Literacy Opportunity

Loop introduces students to modular co-authoring, real-time editing across platforms, and version-aware thinking — all relevant to future collaborative work.

Similar Tools

  • Google Docs (document-centred, less modular)

  • Notion (advanced, good for content databases)

  • Trello (focused on task boards rather than writing)

Further Resources

⚠️ Warning about Microsoft Tools

Important Note:
While these tools are currently available via LSE’s Office 365 subscription, Microsoft frequently retires or rebrands services with limited notice (e.g. Stream Classic, Forms Pro, Jamboard deprecation). We recommend avoiding over-reliance on any one tool without a fallback option. Always download or back up critical work and avoid designing assessments around tools with uncertain lifespans