i>clicker
What are Clickers?
Clickers is the common name for an audience response system, such as those used on the TV shows Who Wants to be a Millionaire? and Funniest Home Videos. A clicker system typically includes software, a receiver, and multiple remotes, and can be used in a variety of ways to improve classroom instruction. Review the Teaching with iClicker & MessageGrid article to see the benefits of using Clickers and how teachers are using Clickers to engage students in learning.
There are two components to the i>clicker system: a recevier and remotes. The receiver is easy-to-use, portable, and durable. It is powered by a USB port on your computer; it is completely plug-and-play. One receiver is capable of recording votes from as many as 1,500 remotes. They operate on a two-way radio frequency system operating at 915 MHz to ensure no collision/interference with Wi-Fi technologies. They have a range of 200-300 feet and have 16 sub-frequencies to prevent interference with nearby classrooms.
The required software for the base unit comes on a 256 MB SanDisk flash drive that you can plug into the receiver. You can also store the software on your U:/ Drive.
The remotes use the same two way radio frequency system that the receivers use. They require three AAA batteries which are easily replaced without a screwdriver. Energizer batteries are included with each new remote. They have two auto shut-off mechanisms: if the remote has been used to communicate with a base (e.g. voting in class) it will shut off after 90 minutes, but if inadvertently turned on (e.g. in a backpack) and is not communicating with a receiver, it will shut off after 5 minutes. Each remote has a unique identification code (ID) printed on the back that allows you to know how each individual student voted. When a student "registers" his/her remote, that unique ID is linked to that student.
Is there any cost associated with Clickers?
Yes. While supplies last CCIT is providing free receivers along with 2 remotes to faculty members who complete Clicker training. Once supplies have diminished, faculty will be responsible for purchasing their own receivers and remotes.
Students attending a class where i>clicker are integrated will have to purchase an iClicker remote. These remotes can be purchased for approximately $35 in the Clemson University Apple Store.
Can I download software updates for my iClicker receiver?
Yes. You can download software updates for your receiver from the i>clicker Downloads page.
How do I register my i>clicker Remote?
Go to the iClicker website to register your i>clicker Remote.
How do I use my i>clicker Receiver?
You can submit a ticket to ITHELP@clemson.edu and request one on one training. You can also view one of i>clicker live daily online training sessions by going to the Training portion of the iClicker website.
- PC Quick Start Guide
- MAC Quick Start Guide
- Instructor Checklist: Getting Started with i>clicker
- First Day of Class Materials A zip file including everything you need to introduce i>clicker to your students: PowerPoint Slides, Syllabus Attachment, and a Handout for your students.
- Registration All-In-One Steps and troubleshooting tips.
- Hardware and Software Set Up A self-running PowerPoint slide show to walk you through initial set-up of your i>clicker system.
Frequently Asked Questions
View some of the more frequently asked questions on the i>clicker FAQ page. Their site has questions asked by both student and faculty members.
If my i>clicker does not work, what should I do?
- Make sure you have removed the pull tab from the battery compartment.
- Replace the batteries in your i>clicker Remote.
- Take your i>clicker Remote to the Support Center.
A student cannot see his, her clicker ID number, what should I do?
- Ask your student to vote with his/her clicker before or after class.
- Open the iGrader software and click on the session.
- The remote number will be listed from the vote.
- Note the number and return to i>clicker and register the unit to the student.
Do we offer Instructor-Led training for i>clicker?
Yes. Submit a request to ITHELP@clemson.edu to schedule a one-on-one training session on how to use i>clicker in your classroom. Faculty members will receive a starter kit at their training session that includes the classroom receiver and a USB drive. The receiver and USB drive can be used for all of your courses over multiple semesters. However, we need to know which classes you plan on using it for and how many students are in these classes. Each semester you will need to complete this online order form, so that an adequate number of i>clicker can be ordered for your students.
If you plan on using i>clicker in your class, include this information in your course syllabus and let students know that they can purchase their i>clicker at the CCIT Support Center located beneath Harcombe Dining Hall.
Additional Clicker Resources
- Vanderbuilt University
- Audience Response Systems (Wikepedia)
- UC Davis
- Innovations in Family Medicine Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University
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