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Student Response Systems

What is a Student Response System?

Student Response Systems allow you to pose questions to a class of any size, gather results and display them to the class in real time. Students respond by clicking a response keypad, also known as a "clicker". This process can be done in conjunction with or embedded in a PowerPoint presentation.

Why should I consider using a Student Response System?

More and more SFSU faculty have begun to adopt electronic Student Response Systems to facilitate class discussions, interaction in large classrooms, and overall student participation. Adoption of the response system technology can lead to great success in the classroom.

What should I consider when choosing a Student Response System?

Right now, there is some confusion due to the fact that different publishers have sold so many different systems on campus. We are coordinating the effort to reduce the number of systems, so there can be centralized support for instructors and students. In the meantime, consider the following:

• infrared vs. Radio Frequency: There are two ways that the response keypads communicate with the receivers: infrared or radio frequency. Even though they are more expensive, we recommend radio frequency systems. They are easier for everyone:
  • Instructors can use them in any classroom and can set up the receiver easily
  • Students do not have to worry about "line of sight" issues between the keypad and the receiver when responding
  • Campus support staff do not need to outfit specials rooms with receivers
• Mac vs. PC: Of the top two radio frequency systems, one works on both Mac and PC platforms, while the other will not be available for the Mac until December. [Update] Both systems now work on both PC and Apple platforms.
• Functionality: One system allows cross-tabulation and other analysis features in real-time, while others offer limited analysis functions and/or limited real-time capabilities.
• Communication with publishers: Different publishers present different response systems to go with their textbooks. However, this does not necessarily mean you must use a specific response system.
• Confusion for Students: Students enrolled in more than one class using a student response technology may need to purchase a different type of "clicker" (response pad) for use with each class that adopts a different system. In Spring 2005, some students had to purchase three different "clickers"! In Fall 2005, there will be five systems in use on campus. Talk to your department and college peers and academic technology support staff to see who is using a Student Response System. You may be able to use one that they are using.
• Cost to students: Some systems are cheaper, but they require the students to pay a registration fee each semester to use the keypads.

How do students get the response keypads?

The response keypads are distributed in two different ways:

• The department, college or university buys a set of keypads to check out for use in the classroom.
• Students buy keypads from the bookstore. The keypads are sold individually or bundled with textbooks.

How do I get more information about Student Response Systems?

Information is available in many different forms:

• Check out one of the three demo units from Academic Technology. They are available at the Academic Technology checkout counter in the ground floor of the library and come complete with RF receiver, student clickers, a laptop with installed software, and instructions
• Find out more information on two systems currently in use on campus by visiting Academic Technologies site on eInstruction and Turning Technologies . (Still under construction)
• Contact us directly. We are always happy to discuss various solutions on campus and put you in contact with other experienced faculty members.