Top Hat is a sophisticated presentation and polling tool that has been used by the Schools of Medicine and Pharmacy since 2018. Top Hat Basic is a free version which became available in autumn 2020 and can be used for polling with large cohorts.
A key feature of Top Hat is that students must create an account and sign in each time they participate in polling. Anonymous polls are possible, but Top Hat usually tracks all students activity and presents that in a weekly report. Apps are available for Android and iOS phones and tablets which automatically log in but students can also log in via their web browser if they wish.
How to get started as a tutor
See this 3-minute video for an overview of its capabilities and this video (40 minutes) to see how to create and deliver an interactive presentation.
See also this step-by-step guide (PDF) to creating your own Top Hat Basic instructor account, which also includes advice about inviting students to your course.
How to enrol as a student
Students must create a Top Hat account to be able to view and take part in these interactive lectures. This process is simple and will take a minute. They will need to know the six-digit Join Code for your course.
- Open a browser and go to app-ca.tophat.com/register/student
- Enter your course code and follow the instructions
- Make a note of your Top Hat password – don’t make it the same as your Aston password.
- You can bookmark the Top Hat course page for easy access
- You can download the Top Hat app to your phone or tablet for easy mobile access.
This guide provides step-by-step screenshots: Top Hat Basic – enrol as a student
Limited support available
Top Hat Basic is not supported by the TEL Team or Digital Services, so tutors who use it will need to contact Top Hat support for help.
Top Hat has excellent online help for both staff and student users.
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