Using Turning Point

Most commonly Turning Point technology is used to test knowledge and understanding during or at the end of a lecture.  Used in this way, it can emphasise key issues and allows students to test themselves in a safe environment. The DTM&H groups are large and trying to generate meaningful discussion or debate in a lecture theatre environment, tends to result in one or two individuals dominating, with others left behind. I use Turning Point to gauge opinion and encourage more meaningful debate in small groups in a more equitable and safe way during a session. For example, I ask students ‘Why has WHO been slow in tackling the non-communicable disease threat globally?’.  I provide a good range of options – all taken from commentaries and papers written about this.  I then give the students a few minutes and ask them to discuss the question with those sitting around them, before voting.  I create this as a question in Turning Point with up to three possible answers, with the first answer weighted more heavily.  This means students can pick up to three options in order of priority. I always use the ‘countdown’ option within Turning Point, and usually set it to 10 seconds, so that students know when polling will close.  The voting then creates an overview of the opinion in the class that I use to generate further in-depth debate and discussion.  I tend to go over the main answers, citing the key arguments from experts. I also use Turning Point questions to test knowledge and understanding.  I have found that when time permits, students appreciate the opportunity to discuss the question with colleagues before answering.  This makes the session more interactive and creates greater depth of learning. Turning Point is relatively easy to use, and it can be used in many creative ways.  Feedback suggests students find this fun and it enhances learning and understanding of key points.

Mary Lyons

Senior Lecturer in Public Health Faculty of Clinical Sciences and International Public Health +44(0)151 705 3745 mary.lyons@lstmed.ac.uk