Using Plickers for Assessment in the Classroom

Assessment is a crucial part of the learning process, providing educators with insights into student understanding and progress. However, traditional assessment methods can sometimes be time-consuming and intimidating for students. Plickers, a powerful and easy-to-use tool, offers an innovative way to assess students in real time without the need for individual devices.

What is Plickers?

Plickers is a tech-based assessment tool that allows teachers to collect student responses instantly using a set of unique printed QR-like cards. These cards can be scanned using a teacher’s smartphone or tablet, making it an excellent option for classrooms with limited technology resources.

Why Use Plickers for Assessment?

• Quick and Easy Data Collection – Teachers can collect real-time responses from students without the need for student devices.
• Engages All Students – Even quiet or shy students can participate without fear of being singled out.
• Instant Feedback – Teachers can immediately analyze student responses and adjust their instruction accordingly.
• Paper-Free Assessment – Reduces the need for printed quizzes or worksheets.
• Customizable and Versatile – Questions can be pre-planned or created on the spot for different subjects and skill levels.

How to Use Plickers for Assessment

Step 1: Set Up Your Plickers Account

1. Go to Plickers.com and sign up for a free account.
2. Create a class and add student names to assign each a unique card.
3. Print Plickers cards from the website (each student gets one card with a unique QR code).

Step 2: Create and Assign Questions

1. In your Plickers account, create multiple-choice or true/false questions.
2. Assign the questions to your class and prepare for the assessment session.

Step 3: Conduct the Assessment

1. Display the question on a projector or write it on the board.
2. Students respond by holding up their assigned Plickers card in a specific orientation to indicate their answer choice.
3. Using the Plickers app on a smartphone or tablet, scan the classroom and instantly collect responses.

Step 4: Analyze and Use Data

1. View student responses in real time through the Plickers dashboard.
2. Use the data to identify trends, gaps in understanding, and areas for review.
3. Adjust lesson plans or provide targeted feedback based on assessment results.

Tips for Effective Use of Plickers

• Practice First: Ensure students understand how to hold and use their Plickers cards correctly.
• Mix Up Question Types: Use a variety of question formats to keep students engaged.
• Use for Formative Assessment: Conduct quick checks for understanding during lessons.
• Encourage Reflection: After assessments, discuss answers with students and clarify misconceptions.
• Track Progress Over Time: Use Plickers data to monitor student growth and inform instructional decisions.

Conclusion

Plickers is a simple yet powerful tool for classroom assessment, making it easy to engage students and gather instant data without the need for expensive technology. Whether used for quick comprehension checks, quizzes, or exit tickets, Plickers can enhance the assessment process and help teachers make data-driven decisions to support student learning.