How to use a random name picker in the classroom

Keeping students engaged is one of the biggest challenges in any classroom. When you ask a question, it's often the same three hands that shoot up. A random name picker can completely change this dynamic.

Why random selection works

Using a random name picker introduces an element of unpredictability that keeps everyone on their toes. It removes the teacher's unconscious bias and ensures that every student has an equal opportunity to participate. When students know their name could be called at any moment, active listening increases dramatically.

Setting up your wheel

Setting up a class wheel on Spinfy is incredibly simple. Just navigate to the Wheel tool, paste your class roster into the input box, and you're ready to go. Because Spinfy saves your data locally, your class list will be right there waiting for you the next time you open the site on that device.

Creative ways to use it

• Cold-calling: Spin the wheel to select who answers the next question.
• Group formation: Spin multiple times to assign students to project groups.
• Presentation order: Let the wheel decide who presents their project first, removing the stress of volunteering.
• Icebreakers: Put fun questions on the wheel instead of names, and have students spin to see what they have to answer.

Making it fun

The visual anticipation of a spinning wheel is inherently exciting. Turn the sound on, project it onto the smartboard, and let the class watch as it slows down. It turns a mundane task into a mini game show moment.