Yale University

Title: Wireless Student Polling: an interactive introduction to a new instructional tool at Yale

Abstract: Recently, inexpensive wireless electronic systems that allow instructors to rapidly and accurately poll large classes have become available. They can facilitate an increased interaction with the instructor and improve student engagement in a lecture class. This technology has come in conjunction with a large amount of research in physics education. This research makes a convincing case that "traditional instruction" does little to improve student understanding of basic physical concepts. It also has shown that techniques that increase the engagement and interaction of students lead to significant gains as measured by carefully designed assessment tests. I will demonstrate the operation of the new wireless polling system installed in SPL 59 and Davies Auditorium and illustrate how it can facilitate increased student interaction and engagement. I will also discuss how it has been implemented in physics classes this semester.