Tech. Tool Triple-Play1) Plickers

2) Autotext 3) Remind.com

@ COLTT 2016Dr. Jeff LoatsDepartment of Physics

Plickers – Single Device “Clickers”

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Classroom response systems are an excellent tool for using powerful, well-studied teaching techniques.Hardware: iClickers, TurningPointSoftware: PollEverywhere, Learning Catalytics

TopHat, Clicker SchoolRequire devices, $ (or both)But then there’s Plickers!A single-devices clicker systemthat is free to students.

Plicker Cards4

Smaller set – 40 unique cardsLarger set – 63 unique cards4 orientations → 4 choices(A, B, C, D are tiny on purpose)

Scanning with Plickers App:• Decent speed• Shows when an answer is registered• Ideal range is 5-15’ away (further works too)• Can show question/responses on website

Lets try Plickers!

Plickers – Use Cases?7

Other uses for Plickers?• Simple “check-in” attendance• Indicate readiness (after working/reading)

Visit Plickers.com to get started• Print your own cards (cardstock for durability)• Or buy nicely laminated sets on Amazon

(Don’t forget… the tool isn’t the pedagogy)

Autotext – Save Time, All The Time

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A must-have for anyone who regularly communicates with “new” people.

You type a short string: “\syic”Automatically replaced: “See you in class.”

Text replacement “Plus”:Win - PhraseExpress (free solo), Breevy ($35 after 30d)Mac - aText ($5), TypeIt4Me ($20)

Text replacement and Much More:Win - AutoHotKey (free)Mac - Keyboard Maestro ($36), Alfred (£17)

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Write an oft-used sentenceConsider a “system” for

your codes

(Does your preferred app cost money? Do it anyway… you won’t regret it.)

Grab a “Recipe” as a reminder

Remind.com – Text Reminders

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Many of our students (and hip young faculty) use email the way (truly).Add another channel withRemind.com. Participants in a “class” opt-in by texting:

Try it! Text “@loatsdemo” to 81010.

Text participants without sharing contact info.Schedule messages in the futureInclude attachments/linksRe-use previous messages for that group (class)

Remind.com – Uses13

Create “classes” for• Classes• Student groups• Majors/minorsRe-use messages for• Start of term reminders• After-exam nudges• Advising invitations

Grab a “Recipe” as a reminder

Your Summary14

Which tool do you most want to try out?

Get in touch!Jeff Loats: jeff.loats@gmail.com, @JeffLoatsSlides: www.slideshare.net/JeffLoats

Thanks for your attention!