Question time: stimulating participation in lectures via mobile devices Ben Abell Biosciences Sheffield Hallam University

Lecture-based learning Problems: - students easily become passive learners - discussion hard to promote and manage Project aim: - promote student participation using mobile devices - using online questions - Google Forms

Using Google Forms: session structure Lecture for min Group Qs 5-10 min Discuss responses 5-10 min Level 4 biology module 40 students

Using Google Forms via QR code Access the live form using a weblink Long version: sheet/viewform?formkey=dFRx WjhJZHU2Q1FuVFBYc1lrZ1JC MWc6MQ#gid=0 Shortened using goo.gl online better: QR code

Student experience Survey of 40 students, 37 responses Generally positive: would like more use of quizzes, and online is preferred method Most valued aspects - Staying alert and enjoying session - Peer learning (groups 2-4) - Learning facts - BUT NOT understanding concepts

(Some) problems & solutions ProblemSolutions Access to mobile deviceTraining on accessing web and QR codes Group quizzes Provide iPod Touch or iPad Mainly fact recallSet some complex and open ended questions Class managementEnsure easy access Structured timing

Acknowledgements Susannah Diamond and mobile learning project Robin Gissing (HWB e-learning) Plant Physiology students