Poll Everywhere

One of the technology tools I chose to add to my Teacher Toolbox is called Poll Everywhere.  This app is a way to survey a group of people using a cell phone or Twitter.  The manager of the poll sets up a class and shares information with the group as to how to sign up.  A simple text message will get you into the class.  The manager activates the poll and as the participants answer the questions, the data shows up in real-time.

As a Kindergarten teacher, I don't imagine that I would use this tool specifically for classroom purposes, however, I could see myself using it at the beginning of the year with parents at our Back to School night.  To get a better picture of life at home for my students, as well as a starting point for conversation, some of the questions I could poll are...

1) What time does your child go to bed?
a. before 7:00
b. between 7:00-8:00
c. after 8:00
This is a great way to discuss the importance of getting enough rest!

2) I read with my child...
a. never, reading to my child is not important
b. I try to read every night, but sometimes we are just too busy!
c. every night
I am a parent, and believe me, B happens. ;)

3) I believe communication between home and school is important.
a. True
b. True
c. True
Ooooooh, this is a tough one!  Sorry, parents.  You don't get a choice on this one!

As you can see, I would like to have some fun with this app and use it as a conversation starter more than anything.  I think my parents would be more engaged in my presentation and I would have more fun as well!

Example of Poll Everywhere Question

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ISTE-S
4. Critical thinking, problem solving, and decision making
    c. Collect and analyze data to identify solutions and/or make informed decisions
5. Digital citizenship
    b. Exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supporst collaboration, learning, and productivity
6. Technology operations and concepts
    a. Understand and use technology systems

ISTE-T
1. Facilitate and inspire student learning and creativity
    b. Engage students in exploring real-world issues and solving authentic problems using digital tools and resources
2, Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments
    d. Provide students with multiple and varied formative and summative assessments aligned with content and technology standards, and use resulting data to inform learning and teaching
3. Model digital age work and learning
    b. Collaborate with students, peers, parents, and community members using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation

Sources

ISTE standards- students. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards/standards-for-students

ISTE standards- teachers. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/standards/iste-standards/standards-for-teachers

Poll Everywhere http://www.polleverywhere.com/