A Classroom Performance System (CPS), also known as “Clickers,” is a very interactive form of technology used in the classroom. The following are some uses of a CPS.

• Pre & Post-Assessments
• Formative and Summative Assessments
• Paper & Interactive
• Quick checks during presentations, videos, lectures.
• Participation
• Agree/Disagree
• True/False
• Team Review Games
• Attendance

Classroom Performance Systems transmit student input through an infrared or radio frequency signal. From our experience, if you are considering purchasing a CPS, the radio frequency system is the most efficient. ELL classroom demoed an infrared system for a month and found that student excitement and participation was increased; however, the infrared signal was hit and miss. The receiver did not always detect the signal from the clickers even if the student directed the clicker directly at the receiver. As teachers, we found the infrared system more frustrating than useful. 

Please share your CPS experiences and ideas with us. For more information, see the links below.

http://www.einstruction.com/

http://www.mhhe.com/cps/index.shtml

Before working with students whose first language is not English, it is important to learn the academic characteristics associated with the students. This brief video explains the differences between non-English proficient, limited-English proficient, and fluent-English proficient English language learners in your classroom.