Our study extended over a period of eight months. During this time, our analysis uncovered several problems that networked calculators could solve - problems that were echoed by many teachers and students. Some of these problems were related to social relationships between teachers and students, primarily around motivation, engagement, and participation. Other problems were technical, logistical difficulties focusing around the transfer of data. We list some specific problems that are solved by Interactive Lessons.
- Only a single student can control the calculator. Teachers that use calculators in class tend to have a single student run the ViewScreen calculator during the entire class period. Some teachers mentioned that transitioning between one student and another causes disruption. This disruption is caused by students having to physically switch places to assume control of the display, unless they are close enough for the cable to reach. Interactive Lessons enables easy switching between students in this role, facilitating class participation. Further, clarifying the calculator button presses help student learn how to use the calculator.
- Class disruption. Students tend to disrupt class to gain attention. By making inappropriate comments, or "cutting up" as several of our users called it, students who feel left out can redirect the conversation and class momentum toward themselves. However, this tends to take up precious class time and can often get the entire class off track. Interestingly, several teachers mentioned that they let the most vocal "cut ups" run the calculator - sit in the drivers seat.
- Sharing data across the class. Another problem that was reiterated by multiple teachers was the problem of trying to coordinate data between calculators. Often, during labs or lessons, students try to accumulate data and compare their results with other students. Unfortunately, this often leads to chaos - students don't understand how to connect the calculators, there aren't enough cables, and the act of finding a partner to trade with takes up valuable class time.
