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Audience Response Systems and Their Importance
Most of us have been there. We've prepared our scripts, spent time generating dazzling graphics, compiled volumes of useful data, and stood before the crowd or boardroom to present. Everything seemed to go smoothly, but when it was finished, we've had no way of gauging if anything was retained, let alone if anyone was really listening. Or even worse, we've finished a presentation that we've poured our hearts and souls into, only to find that half the room was asleep while the other half was busy sending text messages.
Regardless of how the presentation went, whether we were met by a standing ovation or the sound of crickets, an audience response system that tracks the results of the meeting while helping engage the participants would be a godsend.
There are audience response methods that can be employed, such as break-out sessions and mid-presentation surveys that can help with participation and retention. The weakness with these is that they don't capture the emotion and the response of the moment, and while presenting useful data, there is no clear way for the presenter to gauge his or her own strengths and weaknesses or those of the presentation at hand.
Also, as in any classroom situation, those who don't grasp a concept might be reluctant to speak up, while others may be annoyed at the interruptions of the "struggling student." An effective audience response system should capture immediate reaction, accurately identify weaknesses, and provide useful data to the presenter or sponsoring organization.
With today's technology, audience response systems can employ a number of tactics and tools to engage the target audience and provide useful and useable feedback. An early example of this can be seen in TV game shows, where the selections and choices of the studio audience affected the success of the contestants.
Telephone technology has taken this to a new level, allowing thousands of viewers to choose which performer will win a record contract, or who will be the next millionaire. This same technology, on a localized level, can be employed to track response, gauge comprehension, and provide the presenter with a useful audience response system.
Interactive whiteboards are also an essential part of an effective audience response system. This technology gives the presenter the opportunity to present dynamic media while making notes and additions that are specific to the target audience. Not only does it solve the problem of dried out dry-erase markers, it allows the presenter to include dynamic media, such as video clips and photographs, at the push of a button.
The audience response system of the Twenty-first Century will include these methods and many more, ensuring that both the attendees and the presenters get the most for their time.
About the Author Pulse Interactive Media (http://www.pulseim.com) offers the latest in audience response systems technology and services. Art Gib is a freelance writer.
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