Use of information technology in exam revision

Using an IT based portable group support system such as Teamworker can transform a revision session from a place where a teacher delivers information to a place where students engage with one another to solve problems, discuss a topic and actively engage in the learning and revision process. The Teamworker system consists of a set of individual wireless handsets: each with numeric keypad, 2 line LCD display and radio transmitter. The other part of the system comprises a radio receiver linked to a PC, connected to a video projector. The handsets enable students to respond to the questions displayed by the video projector. Individual responses can be recorded and the group responses displayed back to the class in the form of an anonymous bar or pie chart. One study in the University of Portsmouth Business School used the system to help prepare students for an end of unit examination in Business Information Systems for a cohort of 300 students. The students, working in small groups answered a number of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). A question was displayed, the students discussed and agreed their answer, and then transmitted the numerical value representing the answer. The group responses were then displayed. Where the student groups returned a range of answers, or the majority returned a wrong answer, a group discussion followed as to what was the right answer. When the lecturer considered it appropriate the correct answer was displayed and the reason explained, generating further discussion. At each Teamworker session the performance of individual groups could be monitored and poorly performing groups could be identified for additional tutorial support. Students reported, via a questionnaire, that they had enjoyed the revision session and found it useful. They particularly liked the instant feedback of answers and the chance to discuss straight away those things they did not understand. Other students identified that the session helped them recognise those areas that they needed to concentrate on in terms of their revision. As one student said 'It made learning and revision more fun – when people enjoy learning, they will learn more'.