Effective integration of a student response system in an undergraduate computer science classroom: An active-engagement instructional strategy

Abstract

Classroom learning experiences are often hindered by a lack of student participation and superficial interactions with the course content. Student engagement is essential in ensuring that students take an active role in their own learning experiences. A student response system (SRS) is an educational technology that has proven valuable in increasing student engagement. In this study, an active-engagement instructional strategy was devised to guide the effective integration of an SRS as part of classroom activities. A case study was then conducted to investigate the impact of the instructional strategy on student engagement in an undergraduate Computer Science classroom. Analysis of the collected data indicates that the integration of the SRS supported active learning and increased students’ motivation to participate in classroom activities. The instructional strategy served as an effective guide for instructional activities and helped to identify instances that could sabotage the facilitation of student engagement.