Participation in classroom settings decreases with class size and
diversity, thus creating passive modes of learning, due to feelings of shyness,
peer pressure, and the like. Computing technology can help by creating a
``safe haven'' for student participation, but the successful introduction of
tools into the classroom, already a dynamic and tool-rich setting, presents
challenges. We describe the design of ActiveClass, an application for
encouraging in-class participation. This system has been used in two sections
of a second course in computer programming, providing a rich source of insight
into technology-mediated learning and how technology molds student life.
Pre-2018 CSE ID: CS2002-0703
