2. Features Plickers Socrative
Cost Free Free ($ upgrade available)
Response device QR codes printed on card
stock
Students’ mobile device
Compatibility iOS and Android iOS, Android, laptop, desktop
Method of engagement multiple choice or true/false multiple choice, true/false,
short answer
What they are - Plickers and Socrative are student response systems that allow
teachers to conduct formative assessments in order to check on learning.
3. Claims Plickers Socrative
Directions are clear and easy
to follow
Strongly agree Strongly agree
Easy to start and exit the
program
Strongly agree Strongly agree
Program functions well Strongly agree Strongly agree
Program is enjoyable to use Strongly agree Strongly agree
Contains useful management
features
Agree Strongly agree
Basic tasks are easily learned
and intuitive
Strongly agree Strongly agree
Advanced features are easily
accessed and applied
Strongly agree Strongly agree
Tutorials are built into the
program
Strongly agree Strongly agree
4. Comparison
Plickers
Socrative
Pros
• Free
• No student accounts required
• Easy to set-up and manage
• Only one mobile device needed (teacher)
• No additional hardware required
Cons
• No essay/short answer response option
• QR response cards will wear out and need to be replaced (locally).
Pros
• Free
• No student accounts required
• Easy to set-up and manage
• No additional hardware required
• Essay/short answer response option
Cons
• Requires each student to have a working mobile device
• Possible for students to get off task with their mobile device
5. Recommendation
Both student response systems provide an engaging way to assess students and collect timely
and accurate data. Neither resource requires additional funds from the district to implement
and should require minimal support from the technology staff. However, the QR code cards
used for the Plickers will need to be replaced periodically. They can be printed out locally by
the teacher on card stock or regular paper. This is an additional minimal cost that may need to
be considered. The Socrative application is an excellent choice for teachers interested in the
BYOD concept and are able to effectively manage their use or potential misuse in the
classroom. Given the ease of use and the need for only the teacher to have a mobile device to
scan the student QR code answer cards, the Plickers are probably a better option for the lower
elementary grades. With the multiple devices needed to effectively engage students with the
Socrative app the teacher will need to consider potential problems that may arise (such as the
Wi-Fi not working properly, batteries going dead, students not on task, etc.) I recommend that
staff receive a brief introductory training on the implementation and use of both applications
and encouraged to try both with their students. A follow up survey should be conducted with
the staff to determine which application will best serve the district’s students.
