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Sociology Lecturer Tina Yarbrough has received positive results from using the clicker in a SOCI 1301, Introduction to Sociology, class.
The clicker is the classroom performance system, a small response pad that allows students to answer questions and give the teacher instant feedback.
There are variations of the clicker on the Einstruction company Web site at www.einstruction.com.
Einstruction and the publisher McGraw-Hill collaborated to create a teaching system that engages students and creates a hands-on atmosphere.
Yarbrough started using the clicker three semesters ago and found the system to be effective in engaging students in the lecture.
The previous clicker was infrared because there were problems of interference between the clicker and receiver.
The clicker is new and improved with a radio frequency channel that is void of interference between the student clicker and the master receiver.
Yarbrough said overall using the system is cost efficient compared to other classes.
She said the clicker is about $20 and the textbook is $40, for a total of about $60 per student for the class.
She was encouraged to use the clicker system to create better opportunities of success for her students.
Since using the clicker, there has been an improved overall performance in her classes.
There has been a difference in grades of students.
Students increased participation in class through discussion and there was an increased attendance rate in her classes.
Yarbrough said the recent test average was an 80 and the quiz average was a 70.
She said there has been a large volume of A and B average students, compared to a mixture of failing averages among the students before the system was introduced three semesters ago.
Now, all her of students have passing grades.
Motivation has been the key to success with the students.
When students are motivated to come to class, they want more and participate in class, said Yarbrough.
"I can't make students come, but if they are there, all the other factors fall into place," Yarbrough said.
By using the clickers, her goal is to get the students excited about sociology by creating a stimulating, but safe environment.
The students learn best from each other.
"The lessons they learn from each other can be just as important as the textbook," Yarbrough said.
With using the clicker, the class environment is fun and the students are animated.
The system is incorporated in the class with lectures using Powerpoint, polling questions, quizzes and tests.
By using the polling, Yarbrough asked questions, such as "Does anyone have a tattoo?" and students spiked up conversation and began to relate with one another.
Yarbrough said that one thing she liked about the system is that students give honest answers and are more open because of the factor of being anonymous.
With the system, they are able to connect and participate through social interaction.
They not only learn about sociology but are placed in an environment in which they can break down barriers and learn about different cultures.
Student Tony Santana said, "I get a better grade in this class compared to other classes because we interact together and are challenged to speak up through our own thoughts and opinions."
Many students agreed the system is powerful in creating better interaction.
They said collectively grades are high, they enjoy the class and if given the opportunity they would sign up for another class that uses the clicker.
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