Clicker Conclusion

Upon learning what classroom clicker technology was intrigued in its real world implementation. The positive outcomes from this technology include real time feedback on student outcomes, assessment understanding of topic material. Maintaining learners actively engaged was also a highlight of clicker use. Use of clickers outside of the classroom for surveys, homework, and tests was also mentioned for possible uses.

Drawbacks of the technology of the included upstart costs, training of users, and the practical effectiveness of the clickers use. Any technology would have the same drawbacks and in order for technology to be properly implemented each distinct situation must be evaluated.

I just returned from a conference where a clicker vendor was on hand. I enjoyed being able to hear their pitch and to try the technology for myself after reading about it in past couple of months. In the end I think clicker technology is best used in large class formats where interacting with each student is much more difficult. In smaller classes a good teacher should be able to engage the learner and keep them interested. I think the cost of clicker technology in smaller settings would not be cost effective. Of course the learner must make the effort to be actively engaged. In larger settings techniques used in smaller venues are not as viable. I can see clickers being much more cost effective in larger lecture classes.