Creating Interactive Group Learning with Tablet PCs Ryan McLaughlin, Vicky Minderhout, and Jennifer Loertscher Department of Chemistry, Seattle University February 27 th, 2009

Acknowledgments… Hewlett-Packard Technology for Teaching (TTL)and Program Department of Mechanical Engineering (Profs. Greg Mason and Jeff Dragovich) SU Office of Instructional Technology

Engagement in the classroom… A wide variety of techniques can be used to promote student engagement in the classroom – low or high tech ◦ Active lecture using clickers ◦ Lecture with breaks for pair-share or problem solving on the board ◦ In-class group projects ◦ Guided inquiry using structured activities

Guided Inquiry in Chemistry… Process oriented guided inquiry learning (POGIL) Guided inquiry activities are used by students in structured small groups ◦ Develop conceptual understanding of chemistry ◦ Practice higher-order skills including problem solving and integrating ideas “I thought the group format and problem-based approach were extremely helpful. This method encouraged me to think more independently.” -Biochemistry student

Benefits of Group Learning… Benefits of Group Learning… “Group activities allowed us to express our ideas and listen to others with each activity every class period.” “As a whole the teaching style was very different, but in some odd way I feel better prepared for an exam the night before.” “Very engaging classroom activities were new but helpful. I felt responsible for my own learning.” “This course allows the instructor to continually assess course learning on a daily basis…,which is…more accurate than solely an exam.”

Before Tablets… Teams examine static models or data sets Kinetic Molecular Theory Model for Gas Behavior and Explanation of Pressure

After Tablets… Animations illustrate experimental techniques and chemical processes on a microscopic scale. Interactive simulations enable students to experiment with model systems by changing system variables (temperature, pressure, mass, etc).

Before Tablets… Teams record answers on paper record sheets Spokesperson for group reports out results to class Copies of graded record sheet supplied to each team member.

After Tablets… Digital Inking provides robust and flexible format for group responses. NetSupport software allows paperless group work.

Student Comments… “Physical Chemistry is very esoteric and often difficult to conceptualize, the electronic activities added a visual and interactive element beyond what can be offered by lecture and text alone.” – Physical Chemistry student “These resources were extremely helpful. The animation activity that was done during fall quarter helped to give me a clear idea about the techniques used. Visually seeing what was going on was great.” – Biochemistry student

Example Activity… Login to tablet using instructions provided. Wait for activity to be distributed electronically. Open activity, read instructions and begin work.

Example Activity…

Hewlett-Packard Technology Grants HP Technology for Teaching Grant Initiative (20 tablets, poster printer, camera, projector, etc)  Mathematics  Science (physical, environmental, computer)  Engineering (electrical, computer, mechanical, environmental, materials)  Information Systems / Information Technology HP Technology for Teaching Leadership Grant (40 tablets, poster printer, camera, projector, etc)