A clicker for your thoughts: technology for active learning

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide an initial assessment of an Audience Response System (clicker technology) for library instruction as experienced at Texas A&M University Libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Clickers were tested in three different types of instructional sessions with unique class objectives and different student populations. The study provides an overview of the technology, followed by a report on some of the benefits and challenges the authors encountered in the classroom.

Findings

Clickers are fairly easy to use, and provide a fun way to quickly turn traditional classroom lectures into interactive learning experiences.

Practical implications

This paper provides concrete applications for how to access student knowledge and implement active learning techniques in the classroom.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates an innovative way librarians can improve library instruction in order to meet information literacy standards and other educational challenges.

Citation

Hoffman, C. and Goodwin, S. (2006), "A clicker for your thoughts: technology for active learning", New Library World, Vol. 107 No. 9/10, pp. 422-433. https://doi.org/10.1108/03074800610702606