Random name selector for lessons is a great tool to help to make your lessons more fun and engaging for students.
Copy and paste your students’ names into the text box below, click ‘add names to selector’ and watch the names flash as they cycle through before one is selected at random. You can remove each name after it has been selected, if you want a fair way of ensuring everyone gets a chance.
Random Name Selector Tool
Add your names here:
Timer
5 great reasons to use the random name selector in your lessons:
1. Increase fairness
It can be easy to fall into the trap of picking the students with their hands up, or the ones in your line of sight, or the quiet ones at the back. All too often, I am guilty of missing students out or working through the class list in order. Using a random name selector means everyone gets a chance with no unconscious bias involved. Ten years ago, I used lollypop sticks with the students name written on, but this is a much more visual, speedy and environmentally friendly version of the same idea.
2. Increase fun and engagement
Young or old, there is something exciting about waiting for a name to be picked out. Will it be me this time? The bright colours in this tool, and the simple visuals, mean even the youngest students can see their name and engage with the game or lesson activity.
3. Promote critical thinking
The random name selector promotes critical thinking and spontaneity in the classroom. During discussions or debates, you can use the selector to choose students who will present arguments or counterarguments on the spot. This encourages students to think quickly, articulate their ideas effectively, and engage in dynamic discussions. By introducing an element of unpredictability, you help students develop their ability to respond thoughtfully under pressure, a skill that is valuable in various real-life situations. In English lessons in particular, this tool is very useful in encouraging debate.
4. Make groups easy to assign
I will do a lot to avoid the complaints I hear after assigning groups. I know that I often split friendships up or deliberately mix up tricky combinations! Sometimes, it’s good to let Lady Luck decide for me. Not all the time, but in low risk situations.
5. Manage quizzes or games
I like to play games with my class to check recall of previous learning, or to check understanding of a new concept. This tool allows to you delete names and respin. For example, if a student gets an answer right, you can delete their name so you have a reducing list. Alternately, you could keep their name in the game if they don’t get it right, so they get another opportunity to show their understanding.
You can read more about the benefits of tools like this one in this article by Vanessa at the Fordham Ram.
If you would like some related articles, check out some of ThinkLit’s articles below:
