Background

With the introduction of the Teaching Excellence Framework, there is an increasing requirement for universities to focus on the student experience, and demonstrate the steps they are taking to enhance student engagement, learning, and retention.

Therefore there is a requirement for a scientifically proven, lecturer friendly method of actively engaging students in learning, with a real-time feedback on student performance. This will enable the lecturer to predict potential for dropouts in order to address it before it happens. In addition it will give valuable feedback on the on-going learning process.

Technology Overview

The solution is a tool (‘app’) to enhance student learning and engagement in lectures, by allowing students to take part in real-time lecture-based quizzes.

Figure 1. The software in use

The app uses cognitive psychology of learning and memory to include techniques that improve retention. It is developed by an academic working in behavioural science, so is grounded in his research on learning and memory, combining retrieval practice and spacing to help students learn. It is unique in being specifically designed exclusively for use in higher education (HE), by taking into account the expectations and preferences of HE students and the time constraints of lecturers.
It offers students tailored written feedback, identifying areas in which they are performing well relative to the group, and areas in which they could improve; gamification keeps students inspired and motivated to participate.

Benefits

The benefits can be seen in the improved student experience without undue burden on the lecturer.

Improved student experience and satisfaction.
No additional workload for academic staff trying to enhance their lectures
Early tailored feedback for new students on their performance relative to their peers
Improved learning
Improved attendance
Analytics for Program Directors on student engagement

Applications

The main application is for student performance monitoring in higher education. The app aligns with the universities vision of enhancing the student experience. Lecturers can prepare quizzes in minutes to slot into existing lectures, students find lectures more engaging and interactive, and they receive early feedback on their performance relative to their peers rather than having to wait until formal exams.

Students are more motivated to attend lectures, to take part, and review lecture materials so they can perform well in the quizzes.

Opportunity

This technology is an ideal module for a company with existing system for managing student records. The researchers are looking to work with companies that supply student record management systems with the capability to take this technology to market. It will also be suitable for companies that currently develop educational aid software.

Quodl: Gamified Higher Education Learning Quiz

Patents

IP Status

Seeking