Earlier this year Matrix introduced their new software - Turning Point. Here they provide an overview of their product.

All about TurningPoint ®…

TurningPoint is a powerful Assessment for Learning (AfL) tool that sits as a toolbar within Microsoft PowerPoint. Currently being used by teachers and advisors all around the UK, it allows you to communicate with your class interactively by asking them multiple choice questions, to which they can reply using a keypad handset or a choice of hand-held computer devices, including PDAs and laptops.

With increasing numbers of schools and advisors exploring how pupil assessment systems improve the teaching and learning experience, TurningPoint is better than just a voting system. It helps teachers to plan and personalise lessons for their pupils by producing instant, ready-to-use assessment reports, which they can then use to adjust the dynamics of the lessons to potentially improve learning outcomes for every individual pupil in the class.

What is Assessment for Learning all about?

Assessment for Learning (AfL) is the process of seeking and interpreting evidence for use by learners and their teachers to decide where the learners are in their learning, where they need to go and how best to get there. There are ten research-based principles of assessment for learning to guide classroom practice.

AfL is one of the most important purposes of assessment. A review of research into classroom assessment (Black and William, 1998) has shown that AfL is one of the most powerful ways of improving learning and raising standards. However it is an ideal and can in reality be quite hard to reach.

AfL involves a simple cycle of teaching and assessing. Methods of assessing pupils include asking questions, asking them to explain the concept back and setting homework. In turn, the assessment needs to be fed back to teachers - it is crucial that this assessment is sensitive, discreet, and most importantly, continuous. Consequently TurningPoint proves itself as the perfect resource to support AfL.

There are five key reasons for choosing TurningPoint:

So how does it work?

There are three different types of handsets available for use with TurningPoint:

Infrared

Light, compact and easy to use, the ResponseCard IR (infrared) handset is an ideal solution for those working with audiences in smaller rooms. The handset is compact, lightweight and durable, with tough casing to ensure maximum longevity and a long battery life that reinforces its value for money. Using infrared technology similar to that of a TV remote, it is easy to operate and set up. The range for one receiver is approximately 90 feet and this can be increased by utilising multiple receivers, providing multiple usage options for different styles of teaching and for different subject matters.

Radio Frequency

The ResponseCard RF (radio frequency) handset is the most popular option and is an ideal solution for all environments – small, medium and large. Up to 82 sessions can be running at any one time in close proximity without interference, and an impressive total of 83,000 handsets can be used together without a loss of performance. ResponseCard RF therefore offers dual usage possibilities – meaning that it can be used in the classroom, assembly hall, and even at parent/teacher evenings.  The keypad is easy to use and allows responses to be accurately and effortlessly transmitted to the teacher’s PC. Two-way communication enables participants to receive answer confirmation on their handset.

vPad

Taking audience response to a new level, vPad Virtual Keypad is the world’s first software application designed to replace the need for traditional keypads. This is a brilliant tool for teaching as it combines the functionality of traditional keypads with all the possibilities that are associated with a keyboard. Users are able to use pocket and desktop PCs to input their responses through either a wired or a wireless network. Alongside TurningPoint’s standard functionality, the software is fully able to support fill-in-the-blank and essay type questions. Additionally, participants are able to send a comment or question to the teacher using text messaging and the teacher is able to control the lesson from anywhere in the room.

Behind the scenes

Beyond basic multiple choice questions, TurningPoint supports the ability to rank items and measure opinion. The vPad handsets also enable open ended questions to be asked, where pupils can write their responses and add comments.

Simple to use and multi-functional

TurningPoint really is simple to use and is the only product that truly cares about where pupils are in the class – reinforcing that every pupil matters and should be considered. TurningPoint ensures that every pupil’s voice is heard, and can also be used at events such as parents’ evening, for parents to voice their views and opinions.

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