Overview
The University is introducing an institution-wide digital polling solution for colleagues to use to promote active learning and student engagement.
Introduction
Digital polling tools are typically used in live teaching settings to motivate and inspire student curiosity, increase participation in learning, and build a sense of learning community.
Use of a digital polling tool typically involves a lecturer asking a question, to which students respond anonymously using their laptop or phone. The results are then shared with everyone, providing stimulus for discussion, and enabling staff and students to gauge and reflect on their understanding.
The project
The project is led by Technology Enhanced Learning (CQSD) in partnership with Digital Technology Services (DTS).
Timeline
- The Procurement phase ran from March–July 2026
- The Implementation phase was scheduled for September–December 2026, with a December launch date. However, the launch is currently on hold.
Drivers include:
- Increasing and enhancing the use of active learning approaches.
- Helping to address the challenge of growing class sizes, and the demand for student engagement tools.
- Requests from academic colleagues for a supported institutional polling solution, moving away from the current reliance on a range of different tools, free versions and individual licences.
- Providing a more consistent experience for both staff and students, while enabling greater support, guidance and sharing of effective practice.
Outputs include:
- A single institutional polling solution for teaching and learning
- Practical training
- Pedagogic guidance on effective use
- Support resources
- Sharing of examples and good practice.
Project progress:
Have a question?
Contact the project leads, Vicki Holmes (v.holmes@reading.ac.uk) and Shirin Franklyn (s.franklyn@reading.ac.uk).
