Re: [school-discuss] Open Source Classroom Response Software "clickers"

[Les Richardson <les@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Bryan,


> > The only danger of this is 'hitching your wagon to a star'... is this some 
> > sort of universal solution (in terms of the lower end talking to some 
> > device) or will this lockin to this device only. Are there other versions 
> > of this kind of device available (so that a general solution can be 
> > devised to any of these devices)?
>
> Yes, the receiever is a universal IR reciever. It will receive and decode 
> many different types of infrared remote control signals. Also, there are 
> multiple infrared receivers available, from commercial receivers, to DIY 
> plans. Worst case I could design one, but it would be a pretty hefty project.

So, do all receivers (once they decode the signal) return the same 'code' 
for a particular transmitter? (pardon my ignorance)

As well, how does one set particular transmitters to be unique? (ie. 
identify themselves)

I assume that we want individual transmitters sending sending a code (ie. 
we can then record each transmitter's input (ie. it's ID code of some sort 
and Response Code of another sort).

Correct?

> > One can always just ask for a show of hands. What will be the pedagogic 
> > value of this? I really don't want to get into testing using a 'Game Show 
> > Format'... (grin)
>
> That is exactly the right question. Technology for its own sake is often an 
> obstacle to learning rather than an aid.

> First, the type of response that can be accepted by the system can be T/F, 
> Multiple choice (A,B,C,D), numeric (0-9) and even possibly numbers higher 
> than 9, by combining multiple responses in a single answer. It just depends 
> on the number of buttons on the remote and the sophistication of the 
> software. It would be difficult on the other hand to have any kind of word or 
> sentence response.

So the transmitter would simply send a single alphanumeric code and the 
software would receive, sort and display them onto Screen or Projector.

Correct?



> Secondly, the pedagogic value. I don't see this as a replacement for the 
> paper/pencil tests that I use at the end of a unit. The most important use 
> for this type of technology is as a formative assessment tool. Formative 
> assessment means you assess student understanding throughout the learning 
> process, not just at the end. For instance, A final test would be a summative 
> assessment. An assignment or quiz would be more formative, but you are still 
> assessing after the learning has (supposedly) taken place.

So this will receive anonymous feedback during Formative Assessment... for 
example:

1.Answer with a 1-5 response for how well you understand this 
idea.

2. What is the repulsive force between 2 electrons 1 cm apart. The answer 
is: 1) 1N   2) 1.602N  3) etc. etc.


> The ideal system preserves anonymity by making it difficult for students to 
> know what others have answered, is quick enough to use in the middle of a 
> lecture or demonstration without breaking the flow of the lesson, gives 
> instant feedback to students and teacher about the general level of 
> understanding and is easily scored, so that the students know they are 
> accountable for their responses. The point is to get a quick but authentic 
> check for understanding before moving on to the next topic, so that you can 
> clear up misunderstandings immediately. The IR response devices come close to 
> being an ideal system. The biggest limitation is that the type of responses 
> is limited to small numbers or multiple choice, T/F type answers. This is not 
> too big a deal if you craft your questions well.

So then we also need a test bank of questions, as well... (grin). I also 
have an online testbank system (very old), that could be dusted off and 
used to provide these.

Could you outline how you see this working from the moment kids enter the 
room?


Thanks,

Les Richardson
Open Admin
SK, Canada