iClicker
This course is part of a pilot project for using the iClicker system for in-class quizzing and poll-taking. So, one of the requirements in this class is that you get and use an iClicker for in-class quizzes and polls. You can purchase one at the main desk in the Campus Bookstore; I’ve been told that they cost $35.35.
There will be lots of small pop quizzes, polls, and other bits of class participation in this class, and these will normally be managed and scored by by the electronic iClicker system in class. All of the pop quizzes, polls, and participation of this sort will count for 20% of your course grade, as indicated on the syllabus.
You are responsible for getting your own clicker, bringing it to class each day, and using it. Not doing so means you’ll get no credit for any quizzes or polls on days when you’re without it.
Once you get your clicker, you’ll need to go to www.iclicker.com/registration/ and register it, using your first and last name, your 9-digit student number, and the individual clicker ID number, found on a sticker on the bottom of the back of your clicker. If you don’t register the clicker, you won’t get credit for using it.
You are to only use your own clicker, since they will be linked to your student ID. Using someone else’s clicker instead of (or in addition to) your own is the equivalent of turning in work you’ve done under someone else’s name. That’s cheating, of course, and will be handled like any other cheating: Anyone caught doing it will be failed for the course and turned in to the Dean’s Office for further disciplinary action, including possible expulsion from the University.
More information about registering and using your iClicker will be available in class on the first day. Try to have purchased yours by the first day of class, and at least by the second meeting, since we’ll start using them right away.
Here’s the FAQ on iClicker use from iClicker.com:
i>clicker
Frequently Asked Questions
For Students
(from iclicker.com)
Why is a clicker required for my class?
Like many instructors, yours has decided (and studies have confirmed) that incorporating this technology improves classroom interaction, discussion, and ultimately your and your fellow students’ comprehension and learning.
Are there other benefits?
Yes. These include maintaining attention during a lecture, creating a safe environment for unsure students to participate, and transforming a passive learning environment into an active one, among many others.
How do I turn on my i>clicker?
Once you remove your clicker from its packaging, you will need to pull the tab on the back of it to activate the batteries. On the front of your clicker you will notice there are 6 options: A, B, C, D, E, and On/Off. The On/Off button is what you choose to both turn it on (resulting in a sold blue light by the “Power” indicator at the top of your clicker) and off (removing the solid blue light).
Do I have to register my i>clicker?
Not necessarily. Your instructor has the option of allowing you to use your clicker without registering it. For example, he/she may simply wish to receive classroom feedback without knowing how each individual student responded. Your responses would be stored and credited to your clicker number, which is located on the back of your clicker, rather than to you. If your instructor then determines that he/she would like the feedback to be credited to each student, you would register and all your previously responses would be retroactively assigned to you. [NOTE: In PHI 111, you WILL need to register your clicker.]
How do I register my i>clicker?
There are two easy ways to register your clicker. Your instructor will direct you to either register in class, as a roll call, or you can register online.
What is the cost of registering my i>clicker?
There is no cost. After purchasing your clicker, it is yours to use in as many classes as required without any additional costs or recurring registration fees.
Could my responses be confused with others?
No. Your remote ID is unique and once registered will only associate to your student ID.
Do I get credit for my responses?
This is a decision your instructor will make. He/she has the option to assign participation points, or to assign points for correct responses, or to simply use your response for attendance purposes. [NOTE: In PHI 111, I WILL be giving credit based on clicker responses.]
What if I am having problems with my i>clicker?
There is a standard one-year limited warranty available with each clicker. If the problem occurs during class, let your instructor know immediately. He or she may have a loaner clicker available for you to use for the duration of the class. If your clicker is defective, your process of returning it will depend upon how you obtained it. If you purchased it through your bookstore, you may return it to the bookstore. If a particular department on your campus provided it to you, you will need to check with that department to determine their replacement policy. If you purchased a previously-used clicker, you will need to consult with that particular source for replacement options.
Is technical support available?
Yes, there is technical support available for students. You can either call our Technical Support Center toll free at 866-209-5698, or you can send an email with your particular concern to support@iclicker.com.
How do I know if my vote has been received?
On the top of your clicker are three light indicators (Power, Low Battery, and Status). The “Status” light will flash green, indicating your vote has been received and confirmed. A red flashing light indicates that your vote was not received and you will need to vote again. Additionally, your clicker will flash red if your instructor has not begun polling.
Can I change my response?
You are able to change your response as long as the polling remains active. During an active polling period, i>clicker records your last response. Once your instructor turns it off, any response changes will not be received (and your “Status” light will flash red).
How long will my batteries last?
The battery life is approximately 200 hours. The “Low Battery” light will flash red when you need to replace your batteries. Once this light begins flashing, you have less than 10 hours of battery power remaining. Your clicker uses 3 AAA batteries, which are inexpensive to replace.
How do I change my batteries?
On the back of your i>clicker is a small slot. You will need to insert a key or other similar device (such as the clasp on a pen) to release the covering, allowing you to remove and replace the batteries.
What if I forget to turn off my i>clicker?
The clicker will remain on for 90 minutes as long as there is an activated base in your classroom. If you leave class and forget to turn off your clicker, it will automatically turn off after 5 minutes. In fact, it will automatically turn itself off even if a particular button is being continually compressed.
Will my clicker work in other classes?
Yes, as long as your instructor is also using i>clicker software and hardware. There are other clickers available on the market (none of which are cross-compatible), so you will need to confirm this with your instructor.