Who wants to be a millionaire? Let’s ask the audience….
Group response systems (GRS) have become popular in contemporary classrooms and at Fairport we use a GRS product called Senteos. These are used in conjunction with Smartboards. But why is this technology important? Is this just another example of having “Stuff” because it is “cool” and “new”….. My answer is NO.
A recent study by Dr. Kellah M. Edens from the University of South Carolina published some relevant research on the role of these GRS in improving learning. Her findings typify the vast body of research over the past decade on the use of technology and instruction…the technology is only as good as the pedagogy of the teacher applying it.
Her study suggests that GRS can improve the self-regulatory skills and intrinsic desire for mastery of goals…in otherwords the use of GRS have a very specific place and purpose, not unlike other pedagogical tools available in good teachers’ repertoire.
Fairport Teacher Mr. Travis Wood is an example of a teacher applying this technology to improve student learning. For lessons and tips on GRS see these Travis or these links below.
Links
Wichita Public Schools Smart Lessons w/Senteos
Ohio State University Designing Questions w/Clickers
