Catchbox

Initial situation

Before coming to the University of Geneva, the teacher was used to working with a small group of very dynamic students. Going from 20 to 200 students while keeping an active class was a real challenge. In order to invite all the students to speak and to discuss with each other in good conditions in an auditorium, the teacher introduced the Catchbox.

Project implementation

The Catchbox is a portable, wireless microphone in the form of a cube connected to the audio system of a classroom. The sound quality is optimal, and students’ voices are clearly audible. Lightweight, the object can be thrown easily across a room without risk of being damaged thanks to its foam shell. This easy and fun way of speaking can encourage students to be more active even in large groups.

In her course, the teacher uses this device in particular when setting up “1-2-All” (“Think-Pair-Share”) activities. After developing a theoretical topic and presenting a short practical case, the teacher asks a set of questions to her students. They are invited to think about each question on their own and then discuss their answers with their neighbors for 5-10 minutes. At the end of this period of reflection and exchange, students are invited to share their thoughts with the whole group. To do this, the Catchbox is shared among the students who want to speak. This gives students the feeling of being part of the course, which is particularly appropriate in this type of teaching where some of the content is subjective and left to interpretation.

Thoughts and advice

In a course that requires discussion, the Catchbox encourages discussion even in a large audience. Students are more active, more attentive and less afraid to express themselves. Students at the University of Geneva are not used to interacting in class, let alone during a lecture with over 150 students. The Catchbox creates a group dynamic and encourages contact between students.

Student feedback

“I really appreciate the “American teaching style”: Many case studies, interacting with the students (Throwable Microphone)” “The real examples given and videos are great to understand what we’re talking about. The catch box is also really cool and fun way to participate.” “This lecture enables reflection from students and their participation, which makes the class go smoothly and very interesting.” ” The highlight of this course is the interaction between the teacher and the different students, which can also be quite stressful.” ” The pink microphone, I as someone who dislikes public speaking, especially in English, it stresses me out and puts me in an uncomfortable position. ” “Regarding the mic ball, I find that it doesn’t encourage us to show up to class, because since we don’t all have a good level of English, we don’t necessarily want to be questioned.”