Polling Overview
Benefits of Polling
- Encourages active learning
- Provides instant formative assessment
- Uncovers misconceptions
- Increases participation and confidence
EdTech Polling Software Presentation 9/30/25
- Video recording (includes live demo of all options)
- Slide deck
- Quick comparison of each polling option
Questions about Polling?
- We’re happy to help determine the best polling solution for you!
- Contact EdTech@cwsl.edu for more information or to schedule a training session.
Poll Everywhere
Poll Everywhere is an online polling platform which may be used in online or in person classes. Responses are made via mobile phones, Twitter, or web browsers. Both the question and responses may be displayed in Keynote, PowerPoint, and/or on the web.
Please note that a basic account with Poll Everywhere is free and can be created at any time, but has some limitations (max audience size of 40, no live responses). CWSL currently has a limited number of paid licenses. If you are interested in being added to CWSL's account, please contact EdTech@cwsl.edu to see if one is available.
- Poll Everywhere Website
Create your account here.
- Install Poll Everywhere
Poll Everywhere is web-based but can be integrated with PowerPoint by installing the appropriate extensions. These extensions are already installed on classroom computers, so you are able to present your slide deck on campus.
- Great Ways to Use Poll Everywhere in the Classroom
- Basic Tutorial Videos
- Features Videos
- Instructor Guide
- Student Guide
- Using Poll Everywhere in Zoom
Zoom Polls
When enabled, hosts can create poll questions for Zoom meetings. You can launch the poll during your meeting and gather responses from your participants. Hosts have the option to download a polling report after the meeting. Polls can be conducted anonymously if you prefer not to collect participant information with the results.
CALI InstaPoll
CALI InstaPoll is a virtual clicker that allows a teacher or speaker to quickly poll the class or audience. To use, go to https://instapoll.cali.org - faculty or speakers should click the 'Create a poll' button to launch a new poll and begin collecting responses. Students or audience members should enter the number of the InstaPoll and click 'Join a poll' to respond to the poll.
Microsoft Forms as Polls
You can use Microsoft Forms to create a poll by signing in to Microsoft Forms and creating a new form, selecting a question type like multiple choice, and adding your poll question and options. Once created, you can share the poll via a link, QR code, or by embedding it into an email or PowerPoint presentation.