This document discusses using clicker technology, also known as interactive learner systems (ILS), to enhance student learning and engagement. Some risks of using this new technology include lecturers feeling a lack of expertise and control, and students potentially losing focus of intended learning outcomes. The rationale for the study is that foundation students may feel inadequate due to special entrance requirements, language barriers, and culture shock, leading to non-participation in lectures. Clickers allow for anonymous participation and involvement of all students. However, challenges in using clickers include potential technical issues, the time needed to familiarize students with the system, writing effective multiple choice questions, and difficulties managing class-wide discussions.

1. Enhancing learning via the use of
“clickers”
Ronald Arendse

2. =

3. Lecturer risks:
• Lack of expertise –
fear of the unknown
• Fear of not being in
control with new
technology

4. Student risks:
•Students may lose focus
of the intended outcomes
•Poor lecturer expertise
may impact on degree of
engagement

5. ADAPTING TEACHING METHODS

6. ILS = “clicker”

7. Rationale for the study
• Foundation students sense of inadequacy
- special entrance
- require extra academic support
- English additional language
- Culture shock (social, emotional &
academicexpectation)

8. Rationale of the study (cont…)
• Non-participation in lectures and tutorials
- lecturers assume lack of ability
- lecturers rely on active participants
• Non-participation ≠ no potential
- difficult to diagnose causes of non-
participation
• Logistical limitations on individual support

12. Victor Edmonds, UCLA
“Putting up your hand in class is a pretty
complex thing, kind of dangerous, socially and
academically. But everyone is willing to give
anonymous answers. Everyone is equally
involved and the answers are honest. And
fast.”

13. STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

16. Challenges in Using ILS
• Technical issues
• Familiarity with system takes time
• Writing effective multiple choice questions
• Using ILS is time consuming
• The bases for student errors is not obvious
• Spontaneous adaptation may be necessary
• Class-wide discussion difficult to manage

17. Contact Details
Ronald Arendse
rarendse@uwc.ac.za