Random Student - teachers

I’ve used several randomizer apps to call on students over the years, but settled on Random Student maybe, what, seven or eight years ago? I like that it selects the students INSTANTLY —no time wasted by a spinning wheel or other such nonsense. This always allowed me to ask a question and (because I project my phone screen on the wall) get an answer from a student without any delay. Another feature that makes it superior to The free program in Google Classroom is that you have TWO modes. GC only has what I call “popsicle stick mode”, which means after a student is picked they know they are “safe” from being picked again until everyone in the class has been picked m. Random Student will let you do this mode if you want, but it ALSO has a TRUE randomizer mode, which keeps students alert because they know they can be picked two or even three consecutive times —it’s utterly random. It keeps the class going. Nothing works better. However, I can no longer use Random Student because a design change moved the button that selects the next student. Because I have only my left hand available to hold my phone, I cannot reach that button. I’ve tried pushing the button with my nose, but it looks silly and is not really accurate. But I still recommend the app to others.

Love it

I’ve use this app for three years in my law school classroom and find it to be absolutely essential. I use it to make sure that I am being equitable in calling on all students at least once rather than just those who are eager to respond.