In the previous activity you used technology to be creative and innovative in the way you presented ideas graphically. How many elements of innovative learning were involved in that graphic presentation?

In this activity we will study the role of technology in engaging learners directly or supporting other ways of learner engagement.

1. Read Defining Student Engagement with Technology. As you read this article identify the following: a) why technology may engage learners per se and b) how technology can support other forms of learner engagement.
2. Join the online discussion group called Learner Engagement  and share ideas on what criteria should be used to evaluate the role of technology in innovative learning activities.
3. Develop a list of between five and 10 criteria which you will use to conduct such an evaluation. Share this with your peers and give each other feedback.

We will use the example of Clicker technology as a case study to test our criteria for evaluating whether technology plays a positive role in learner engagement.

1. Read Clickers: A Teaching Gimmick that Works. Start on the second page at the paragraph beginning with “I became sold on clickers in teaching Developmental Biology..”
2. Experiment with using Kahoot! (an online tool that mimics the functionality of a clicker) in a class or with a group of colleagues. Observe their behaviour and responses.
3. Apply your evaluation criteria to this experience of using technology.
4. Return to the online discussion group called Learner Engagement and share your evaluation scores and conclusions with the group.