Activote and discussions

[Dave Harrington]

Don't know whether we can include an activote idea here;) , but here goes:

I'll set a class a question (e.g would you use sin/cos/tan/pythagoras to solve this problem) but dont define the correct answer. They vote and we look at the percentage for each. they then have to discuss the possible answers, and we vote again. the aim is to get 90% of the class to agree on a particular answer before I set the correct response. I like this because it encourages discussions - pupils have to persuade each other that their answer is correct. I'm still waiting for a "12 angry men" scenario where 1 pupil persuades the rest of the class to change their minds!)

Dave

[Margaret Allen]

This is such a good example of where the technology is promoting good discussion and is not the master! [clap] [clap] The whole iwb and learner response systems is about teachers being empowered to enhance the learning experience - anything that gets justification and deeper understanding has to be a winner. Also isn't it much more engaging to teach in such an environment......+wave+

[Cindy H]

Dave, that's a great idea! Thanks for sharing!

[LouB]

I teach Yr R/1 and we are lucky enough to have a set of voting. I never define the answers as I feel that even at this age it is great to talk about the possibilities. I don't tend to vote again after the discussion in these sessions but I think I might try it in future. Cheers Dave! [clap] [clap]


Lou +wave+

[Dug]

I believe that much critical thinking and analysis is hampered by an unhealthy obsession with 'right answers'. In mathematics particularly, many schools have a challenge on their hands in confronting many pupils' belief that a correct answer is the be all and end all.
Used well (as by David and others), response systems/ACTIVote can help teachers/pupils rise to this challenge.
Used badly, however, and there is a danger of reinforcing the obsession. (Up goes the cheer of 'YESSSSSSSS!!!!' as the 'right answer' is revealed). We need to think carefully about this and any technology and how to best use it to meet the needs of learners.
But then, you all know this already.

[LisaD]

I once saw a great presentation by Gautham Saha that is about this same idea.

He was the first "Teacher Feature" on the US Promethean Planet. I absolutely LOVE how he uses the Activotes to promote discussions in exactly this same manner. He teaches high school science.

There is a video of him explaining all this so I would highly recommend looking at it!

Here is the link:
http://www.prometheanplanet.com/us/server/show/nav.1013

Lisa

[simongreen]

Don't know whether we can include an activote idea here;) , but here goes:


Just to clarify, yes Activote tips are welcome...
The more the merrier!

[Dave Harrington]

I once saw a great presentation by Gautham Saha that is about this same idea.

He was the first "Teacher Feature" on the US Promethean Planet. I absolutely LOVE how he uses the Activotes to promote discussions in exactly this same manner. He teaches high school science.

There is a video of him explaining all this so I would highly recommend looking at it!

Here is the link:
http://www.prometheanplanet.com/us/server/show/nav.1013

Lisa

Where do think I got the idea from:-/
Dave

[wilcogirl]

I use this way in my class quite frequently. My Algebra 1 nad 2 students as they move through the curricullum, they start to see differnet ways to solve different problems, some, also have issues deciding which method to use. I use this along with a Kagan cooperative learning to help make these decisions.

For example, with a system of linear equation, you have three ways to solve as an algebra 1 student, graphing, substitution, and elimination. I present these options along with an "I am not sure" Once they have chosen and we see the class vote, I stick it to them to "round table" their decision pointing out they reasons why they thought it was the best method. Then we vote again and see the new results. At this point I start asking the students what made them change. It is a great way to guide them to decide the best way to solve. I also do this with solving quadratics as well.;)

[kathleen]

Have you seen the flipchart about the 12 angry men? Search for it FYI I wonder if it would be fun to share the story as an anecdote with the class to promote reflection on the fact that the popular answer is not always the correct one!! Anyway search for 12 angry men in the resources...

[Peter Lambert]

Have you seen the flipchart about the 12 angry men? Search for it FYI I wonder if it would be fun to share the story as an anecdote with the class to promote reflection on the fact that the popular answer is not always the correct one!! Anyway search for 12 angry men in the resources...
NB. Probably in the US resources