Classrooms for the Future Technology Project:
Student Response Systems
Abington Heights Middle School and High Schools have set an ambitious goal of equipping each academic classroom to meet the guidelines of the Pennsylvania Department of Education Classrooms for the Future initiative. As outlined by PDE, the initiative encourages school districts to equip each academic classroom with the latest technology for student and teacher use and then to incorporated the use of such technology in the everyday learning activities for students. This proactive approach to technology will provide our middle and high school students with opportunities to become comfortable with using technology in varied settings, making them better learners and citizens in 21st century society.
AEIO has recently funded a Student Response System in the High School. This state of the art technology has been installed 10 classrooms. This system consists of a software package, wireless receiver, and individual student remotes or "clickers". It connects to a computer with a projector and is integrated into either PowerPoint or the software that operates the interactive whiteboard. It allows students to enter alphabetic or numeric answers to questions posed by the teacher.
The SRS is a wireless response system that allows faculty to request information and for students to respond by using a "clicker" or hand-held response pad. When presented with a question, the student presses a button on the hand-held response pad which sends a signal to a receiver attached to a computer. The computer records and/or displays the response per the instructor's preference. Immediate feedback in the classroom helps students to identify the concepts they need to study further for upcoming quizzes and exams. Instructors can also better determine where students need help or further instruction.
The SRS technology allows the teacher to better monitor student understanding by integrating strategic questions as part of the opening of class, throughout the class or during the end of class wrap-up. Student responses are recorded so that the teacher can look to see who answered correctly or incorrectly. This provides the teacher with a relatively accurate snapshot of student comprehension, allowing for targeted remediation or adjustment to the pace as needed. Teachers can also pole student opinions as a way to start class discussions. Students will be more actively engaged in a lesson.