This morning each of the students in the class was given a device that looks like a remote control. It is a learning tool that is designed to facilitate an interactive environment within the classroom in order to promote healthy learning. This statement was based on last year students’ feedback, in which it was reported that the element of interaction was crucial to effective learning.

Manufactured by Qwizdom, this nifty little controller bearing the name “Q2” comprises of buttons that allow the user to respond to the lecturer in a number of ways. For instance, if the lecturer sets a multiple choice question, the student can press a button from ranging from “1” to “9” in order to select the best answer. The very same numerical buttons allow the user to rank the quality of the question. On the other hand, a simple “true or false” question can be responded by either pressing the button “Yes” or “No”. The Q2 remote also features a “I need help” button so that the student can inform the instructor that some form of assistance is required.

The device communicates with the receiver using standards-based radio frequency, therefore it is unlikely to interfere with the operation of nearby wireless equipment such as wireless routers (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and cellphones (850 MHz to 1900 MHz), making it ideal in a university setting. It weighs only 58.1g and has a dimension of 11.5cm (Length) x 5.2cm (Width) x 1.6cm (Depth), making it very portable.

A not-so-pretty point about this gadget is that it uses 2 x AAA batteries. Considering this type of battery is more expensive than AA batteries (despite the lesser capacity), it is recommended than the latter batteries should be used instead. Alternatively, this apparatus can be fitted with a lithium battery which can be recharged by placing the item onto a magnetic field, though this may not be economically feasible. Nonetheless, this is a suggestion that Qwizdom should seriously consider if the device is to be fitted with higher battery-draining features.

More information about the device can be found here. Below are a number of photos depicting the device: