A handheld deceived used by a teacher can encourage better learning by randomly generating names to call on in class. The device was created to try to get teachers to call on girls as much as boys so all can learn equally, but an additional benefit is that it helps to keep kids focused.

Maybe it’s the fear of randomly being called upon to answer questions that keep kids focused, or perhaps the success lies in making everyone feel included.

“When teachers use a handheld computer that randomly selects which student to call on, even shy or reluctant pupils will be included in class discussions–and students pay more attention as a result, the researcher found.”