Student Response Systems (SRS): A Game Changer in College Classrooms?-An Explorative Study of Technology-Enhanced Learning

Student response systems (SRSs) have been widely used for nearly thirty years. Modern versions include mobile apps and dedicated software that allow teachers to use various question formats, with students submitting answers via smartphones, tablets, or computers. Teachers can view these responses in seconds, even in large classes. They can display the answers as histograms, word clouds, or other visualizations on the screen. These overviews also provide students with valuable feedback and can serve as a starting point for further discussions. This study, which used cultural historical activity theory (CHAT), shows that some students are skeptical and see control functions in the technology, while others describe how it facilitates peer learning. Past research indicates that peer discussions boost student performance and often correct misconceptions. In this exploratory study, data collected in 2005, 2008, and 2018 from Norway and the USA were analyzed. Although SRS technology varied, all samples included lectures, multiple-choice questions, and peer discussions. The study supports earlier findings that clickers appear to improve student engagement and learning habits, helping them stay focused during lectures. The qualitative data further suggests that the technology positively affects peer interactions, even beyond the classroom.