The effects of clicker use on student engagement and performance in the elementary science classroom

Abstract

Student inattentiveness has long been an issue in classrooms. As students continue to have access to video games and other high tech gadgets, which provide immediate gratifications, teaching by direct instruction doesn't always hold an individual's attention. The purpose of this study was to see if using Smart Board presentations and clickers increased student engagement and performance. Students were introduced to clickers last year, so they were familiar with how to use them at the beginning of the study. Students' surveys, class work, homework, assessments, teacher observation, clicker quizzes and interviews were all used to evaluate the effectiveness of their use in the classroom. The findings did not show a statistically increase on every quiz, however, there was a noticeable increase in the area of math. Overall student opinions were highly supportive of clicker use in the classroom and many stated they were fun to use.