How to Teach Using an Audience Response System

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Test the lecture hall location and computer system prior to lecture.

   Consider using a warm-up question (2 minutes) and use this for keeping attendance. , Use questions that have no more than 5 answer options.
   
   Number all answers to match the keypads on the clickers. ,, Do a follow-up question to see if students really get it. , A good rule of thumb is a maximum of 3-4 per 50 minute session (5 per hour). ,, This will make it better to get a distribution of responses to elicit discussion. ,,
2. 2

   Step 2: Begin each class session with a slide for registration.

3. 3

   Step 3: Construct good questions—Use short questions and brief options.

4. 4

   Step 4: Build in one or two minutes for presenting and polling and 2-3 for discussion.

5. 5

   Step 5: Consider asking the students to discuss the discrepancies in answers in pairs and then re-poll.

6. 6

   Step 6: Use polling sparingly to highlight certain points.

7. 7

   Step 7: Use questions to see what the audience knows before you teach it (needs assessment to gain interest) and then use a different form of the question after teaching the material.

8. 8

   Step 8: Don’t be afraid to make the questions hard.

9. 9

   Step 9: Consider using game-shows for course review.

10. 10

    Step 10: Anticipate possible student responses and be prepared to discuss.

Detailed Guide

About the Author