Using cell phones as audience response system transmitters in civil engineering classes

Abstract

A pilot study investigated the use of cell phones as audience response system transmitters in two civil engineering classes. Data from student surveys quantify student sentiment about using cell phones in class and the impact on cell-phone-related distractions in class. While the study is limited, the data provide some interesting discussion points. For the classes studied, using cell phones as audience response system transmitters provided some benefits without introducing significant distractions. Students enjoyed reporting solutions to group problems by text message and found it helpful to see how other groups responded. The instructor found that having results electronically collected and displayed sometimes facilitated better discussion. Unrelated cell phone use in the classroom that was quiet (text messaging, email, internet) was likely higher than usual during in-class activities, but this type of use was not widespread or perceived as a distraction by the students or instructor. © 2009 American Society for Engineering Education.