A few years ago, a parent community organization purchased a student response system, which included software for the teacher and a remote-controlled “clicker” for each student. It was cumbersome, involved an expensive upfront cost, and was challenging to set up. Teachers were frustrated, and the time spent collecting an assessment digitally far exceeded the time needed using traditional methods.
The idea of a student response system was strong, but the tech got in the way. Let’s fast forward…
A few short years later, a product called Plickers (available on iOS and Android) removes the need for a clicker or 1:1 setup in your classroom for quick assessments. We no longer need a remote control or a device for each student. No need to wheel down a cart of devices either. The only thing needed to capture the power of Plickers is a teacher’s phone or tablet and a piece of paper for each student.
This tool has recently been shared directly with our staff, and I wanted to pass along a solid, simple assessment tool on my site.
The setup is straightforward:
- Create a Plickers account, download the app
- Enter each student’s name
- Print out an 8.5×11 paper “clicker” for each student (Example photo on the right)
- Enter questions on the Plicker site
- Open the app on the device and collect responses
- Save responses to collect detailed information to improve lesson planning
- Plickers Support if need be
Plickers instantaneously gather feedback and allow the teacher to share the information on their laptop through a projector. There are even ways outside the classroom to use this tool (quick poll of teachers at a staff meeting). There is a limitation to the types of questions that will work, but in the simplicity and limitations is the value added. It is quick, light and easy. Layering functions that might be used occasionally will only turn this tool off for users.
Plickers has created free, easy-to-use “dipstick” tools, exit tickets, and formative assessment software that just about everyone can use!