Question time:stimulating participation in

lectures via mobile devices

Ben Abell

Biosciences

Sheffield Hallam University

Lecture-based learning• Problems:

- students easily become passive learners

- discussion hard to promote and manage

• Project aim:

- promote student participation using mobile devices

- using online questions

- Google Forms

Using Google Forms:session structure

Lecture for 15-30 min

Group Qs5-10 min

Discussresponses5-10 min

• Level 4 biology module• 40 students

Using Google Forms via QR codeAccess the live form using a weblink

Long version:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dFRxWjhJZHU2Q1FuVFBYc1lrZ1JCMWc6MQ#gid=0

Shortened using goo.gl onlinehttp://goo.gl/Z5iMr

better:QR code

Student experience• Survey of 40 students, 37 responses

• Generally positive: would like more use of quizzes, and online is preferred method

• Most valued aspects- Staying alert and enjoying session- Peer learning (groups 2-4)- Learning facts- BUT NOT understanding concepts

(Some) problems & solutionsProblem Solutions

Access to mobile device Training on accessing web and QR codes

Group quizzes

Provide iPod Touch or iPad

Mainly fact recall Set some complex and open ended questions

Class management Ensure easy access

Structured timing

Acknowledgements

• Susannah Diamond and mobile learning project

• Robin Gissing (HWB e-learning)

• Plant Physiology students