Using Audience Response Systems in the Classroom

Abstract

Audience response systems (ARS) are increasingly being introduced into educational settings, having previously proved their value in business. These systems make use of handheld numeric input devices to allow students to enter data in response to questions or statements displayed on a public screen. The captured data is displayed on a public screen and enables both academics and students to immediately see how the whole group has responded. The anonymity afforded by an ARS encourages individuals to fully participate without fear of ridicule or loss of face. The low cost ARS technology is simple to use by both students and academics, can be used with large (up to several thousands) or small groups and has applications in all topics of study and at all levels of study. ARS are highly portable, require little set-up time and are easy to use by anyone who has had some experience with software such as PowerPoint.