The use of electronic voting systems (EVS) in teaching at all levels is increasing as the technology becomes cheaper and easier to use. Although many educators initially take a cynical view of the educational value of such technology, many of those who use EVS express a very positive view of their experiences. This article aims to share these experiences with a wider audience, with a view to encouraging even more widespread use of the technology. The use of EVS by teachers in schools as well as in university settings is considered.

Challenge
To prepare pupils for their exams

Solution
TurningPoint handsets

Benefits
- Full class engagement
- Better class control
- Parent outreach

"I am in love with TurningPoint...the kids loved it and they weren't an easy class!"
Lisa Simpson, Humanities Teacher

Challenge
To deliver difficult training to 'hard-to-reach' delegates. 

Solution
TurningPoint handsets

Benefits
- Training time-pressured delegates efficiently
- Delivering sensitive topics anonymously
- Assessment data collected centrally

"It has gone very well, the training has been delivered in the way we imagined and staff have told us that they really enjoy it."
Kerry McDaid, HR Adviser, West Lothian Council

Challenge
To obtain accurate feedback from healthcare specialists from different fields and with different specialities.

Solution
300 TurningPoint handsets

Benefits
- Working with huge groups
- Agility in conferences
- Continual improvement from feedback

"So far the reaction to TurningPoint has been very positive, and an excellent
way of keeping the group interested in the presentations."
Dr Adam Fox, Honorary Senior Lecturer, King's College

Challenge
To encourage residents to get involved in the governance process 

Solution
200 TurningPoint handsets

Benefits
- Capturing residents' opinions
- Overcoming language barriers
- Continual improvement from feedback

"TurningPoint means that everyone can have their say without the fear of being embarrassed about speaking in public."
Janette Gedge, Consultation Manager, Communications and Consultancy Unit, Haringey Council

Challenge
To engage with groups of students in the harshest environments.

Solution
TurningPoint handsets with ResponseCard Anywhere

Benefits
- Engagement in tricky environments
- Agility
- Further use beyond the courses

"ResponseCard Anywhere changes things dramatically."
Nicholas Lapthorn, Head of Centre

Challenge
To make roadshows interactive and to obtain audience feedback 

Solution
TurningPoint handsets

Benefits
- Ongoing refinements from live feedback
- Lively debates and discussions inspired by the votes
- Portability and scalability

"TurningPoint's instant response feature is of huge benefit to the roadshow presenters."
Emma Kemp, BP Educational Service

Challenge
To engage with 600 older people across Northern Ireland while launching the new Age NI brand.

Solutions
TurningPoint handsets at 13 launch events.

Benefits
- A voice for all
- Instant results
- Easy access to data
- Massive time savings

"TurningPoint worked without fuss...and gave everyone speed and clarity".
Maura McClean, Project Manager, Age NI