Student Response Systems a.k.a. “clickers”

Clickers By Any Other Name Synonyms: personal response system audience response system group response system electronic voting/polling system classroom communication system

Basic Characteristics Each student has a wireless handset - like TV clicker - which transmits responses to multiple choice questions posed by their lecturer. The possible answers and a summary of the responses are displayed graphically on a computer screen (which can be projected so that all the students can see).

How it Works Instructor laptop with serial and/or USB connection. Software (usually free) running on the laptop. LCD projector connected to laptop. Receivers (with wiring to connection outlet). Individually owned transmitters for each student.

Benefits of SRS Facilitate knowledge-centered conversation. Formulate probing question/task at lesson’s core. Require each student to participate. Teacher+ Provide representations that enable thinking. Enable anonymous student responses. Technology Aggregate responses in a thought revealing manner. Display results publicly. Full Participation Mutual Supportiveness Student Benefit Conceptual Change Self-regulated Learning Source:

Current Users Botany Chemistry Computer Sciences Mathematics Microbiology Political Sciences Zoology

Hurdles Most systems are designed and packaged for K-12 scenarios. Infrared effective range is 50’ or less. 1/10 second to process each vote; collision=cancellation issues. Most systems require additional projector and screen for signal acknowledgement. Student management.

Pedagogical Justifications promotes active learning through interaction provides immediate feedback to the lecturer on how well students are understanding concepts quick and easy formative feedback which promotes deeper learning can be used on a large scale to give individual feedback to students on their knowledge and understanding

Proposed Support Plan Develop community of interested parties via puppeteer.ou.edu – Clickers Listserv. Communicate coverage areas. Develop bench stock of receivers, etc. Develop training material for Bb and WebCT – Margaret Smith & Cathy Pierson. Install in other lecture halls as required by users.

Current Locations Dale Hall 200 – seats 573 Nielsen Hall A102 – seats 225 Nielsen Hall A204 – seats 310 Physical Sciences 108 – seats 175 Physical Sciences 201 – seats 275 Physical Sciences 224 – seats 80* Physical Sciences 416 – seats 55* *temporary installations

Possible New Locations Adams Hall 150 – seats 282 Adams Hall 255 – seats 180 Dale Hall 211 – seats 400 GL Cross 123 – seats 252