Conducting A Classroom Mini-Experiment Using An Audience Response System: Demonstrating The Isolation Effect

Abstract

The view of the learner has changed from that of a passive recipient of knowledge to that of an active constructor of knowledge. One way in which constructivism can manifest itself is by implementing active learning strategies where "knowledge [is] directly experienced, constructed, acted upon, tested, or revised by the learner." (Thompson & Jorgensen, 1989). Classroom experiments can provide a stimulating active learning exercise for students being introduced to theories, concepts, and real life data. By actively participating in an experiment, students will better understand the concepts the experiment is designed to demonstrate, have fun, and be more involved in class. Using an audience response system to replicate theoretical studies, actual survey data, and social or economic experiments is useful as the results are displayed instantly (no need for the pen/paper method that requires out of class tabulation) and it allows for immediate discussion. Additionally, students' reflection of their experience in the experiment is a great way to encourage active learning and promote deeper, critical thinking. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]