qp.unimelb

The QuickPoll tool for in-class polling

Abstract

Quickpoll (qp.unimelb.edu.au) is a web-based polling system designed to be exceptionally straightforward for staff at Melbourne to set up and manage and for students to use in class. In evaluation of the value and operation of tool, staff and students are enthusiastic about the simple way in which the tool adds engagement and useful feedback to learning and teaching in a range of class settings, but especially in large group lectures. Quickpoll was designed and set up to take advantage of the personal, portable, wireless internet capable devices that an increasing proportion of staff and students bring to class - currently over 50% of our students have iPhones or other smart phones, laptops or netbook computers, iPods or now, iPads with them each day. This project set out to explore ways in which these devices could be used to encourage and support active learning in class.