Highs and Lows of Learner Response Systems

As with everything ed tech related, using learner response systems (LRSs) for instruction can be viewed as a double-edged sword. A learner response system uses wireless technology to connect hand-held devices (used by the student) to the teacher's computer. These devices predominantly are used to facilitate student interaction and engagement with a lesson. (Click here for an example) In my classes, we use these devices mostly for formative assessment during a lesson and occasionally for quizzes (self-paced) if I've properly planned and prepared.

So why the double-edged sword comment? I'll begin with the negatives and end on a high-note. The only issue I've had with using LRSs during lessons deals with student immaturity. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT IS A MUST! As with most technology in the classroom, when classroom management slips, as does the quality and effectiveness of the lesson and subsequently student learning. I first used LRSs during my second year teaching. While eager to try new things, I had not properly "planned for the worst" and arranged the devices to be used in the most effective way. I had the students choose whichever device they wanted and respond (via text) some of the responses. As you could imagine, with lower level freshmen and sophomores mixed with high levels of anonymity, the words that popped up as responses were...lets just say...less than desirable and pretty offensive.

So how does one best use these devices? First (now I know) assign a student to each device. The truth is, they REALLY like to use these devices. It becomes a game and often a race to see who can get the answer in the fastest and of course, most accurate. Assigning each device increases the accountability factor, which does minimize the immature choices from the students. My next suggestion is to cater your questions to the level of the audience. KNOW YOU STUDENTS! Can they handle texting in an answer or would it be best for them to respond numerically, T/F, or Multiple Choice? Lastly, be sure to assign some sort of value to their responses. Inevitably, the novelty will wear off, and students will want to know how you will use their responses. Points for participation, quizzes, or maybe even have it be some form of game where the highest scoring (team) wins something? Again, I feel your audience must dictate how you use these devices. Push them and hold them to a higher level yes, but keep the goals attainable.

Once YOU are set and ready, using LRSs is SO much fun! When used properly, they do encourage engagement in all students; even the most shy and timid learners. In my experience, they provide another means of taking the focus off you as the instructor and back on content and material where it belongs. Once you have properly designed and implemented LRSs into your lesson, most will be impressed by the increased level of student engagement in the lesson and class. No doubt!

Good luck and have fun with them!

-Mark O