Rules of engagement–12 tips for successful use of “clickers” in the classroom

Abstract

Background: Student response system or clickers is an electronic application where a receiver in the instructor's computer captures responses to questions from student keypads. Used effectively, clickers can promote learner engagement and serve to improve learning. It can be used in a variety of ways such as to provide feedback to learners and instructor, to start discussions, for peer evaluation, for formative and summative assessment, to build a learning community, and to experiment on human responses.

Aims and Methods: Using our experience in the use of this technology and literature review, we provide twelve tips for successful use of the student response system.

Results and Conclusions: We have found these strategies useful and envisage that the application of these tips can help maximize learner engagement and learning.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kalyani Premkumar

KALYANI PREMKUMAR is the Associate Director, Educational Support & Development Unit, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada. She is a physician with a specialization in Physiology. She has a Masters degree in Medical Education (MSc) and a doctoral degree in Educational Technology. Her research interest includes evaluation and use of technology in medical teaching/learning.

Cyril Coupal

CYRIL COUPAL is the supervisor of the Instructional Support Group, whose mandate is to identify, evaluate and implement technologies that can support teaching and learning and provide support to adopters. He has a Masters (MSc) and a doctoral degree in Computer Science. His research interests include software development modeling and methodologies and the application of technology to learning.