The interactive lecture: a new teaching paradigm based on pervasive computing

Lectures, though often criticised for their monolithic instruction style and associated with that the lack of motivation on the side of the students leading to a very low learning success, are still one of the most efficient educational methods known in higher education. In addition, lectures are very adaptive to time tables, other courses, different audiences and new cognitions, and they play a valuable part in the social life of the students. In this dissertation, a novel approach to overcome the deficits of lectures is presented. With electronic means the students are able to give feedback, ask questions or take part in small knowledge tests during the lecture; the lecturer, supported by automatic aggregation and analysis can immediately respond to the information received on this additional communication channel. This way, the students are more actively involved in the lecture and thus retain a higher motivation. The software system specifically designed for the “interactive lecture” is explained in detail: “WIL/MA” (Wireless Interactive Lectures in Mannheim) contains all components needed to set up the required configuration fast and efficiently. Using only mobile and light-weight devices with wireless connectivity, no special preparation