Learning Catalytics for Web

Product overview and purpose

Learning Catalytics is a free web-based learning tool from Pearson designed to support active, team-oriented classroom activities. The platform lets instructors pose varied question types and collect responses in real time, encouraging collaboration and immediate feedback.

Key interactive question types

• Image-upload prompts for diagrammatic or visual answers
• Multiple-choice items for quick checks of understanding
• Open-ended responses that invite written explanations or reasoning

Supported devices

• Desktop computers
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Smartphones

Seating, attendance, and classroom layout

Classes begin with a visual seat map that mirrors the physical arrangement of the room, showing which side is the front and which is the back. Students pick a seat for the session (this choice applies only to that meeting), and instructors can use the map to gather and monitor responses as they come in.

How the seat map helps instruction

• Instructors can watch answers appear in real time and spot patterns of incorrect responses (these are shown in red)
• The map provides insight into common misconceptions so teachers can decide whether to reteach or deepen discussion
• An AI-powered grouping feature assembles students into teams and can notify students about who will speak or present next

Submitting answers: modes and timing

Students submit responses using any web-enabled device. Questions can be answered sequentially or in any order, depending on how the instructor configures the activity.

Modes of delivery and timing details

• One-on-one prompts appear for a limited window and are triggered either automatically or by the instructor
• Self-paced or practice sessions allow learners to log in and out and submit answers before the session closes
• Team rounds require groups to submit their responses prior to the designated team deadline

Tools for math and drawn responses

The app supports mathematical input and freehand-style answers. Algebraic expressions must follow accepted notation; Pearson provides a reference list of correct formats for algebra entry.

Drawing and math entry features

• A built-in palette/toolbar is available on both desktop and mobile, offering templates, common symbols, letters, and numbers
• The palette works alongside your physical or on-screen keyboard to construct equations or diagrams

Benefits for instructors and learners

Learning Catalytics is designed to make classroom assessment and group work more transparent and engaging.

For students

• Open-ended tasks prompt deeper processing of complex concepts before the correct answer is revealed
• Team activities develop collaborative problem-solving skills

For instructors

• Instant visibility into student thinking helps prioritize instructional time
• Tools facilitate both whole-class and small-group teaching strategies, making it easier to run team-based projects

Suggested alternative

If you’re exploring similar platforms, consider i-Ready as a complimentary option; it offers structured attendance and class-organization features alongside assessment tools.