Changing the Classroom Experience with the iResponse App

I stumbled upon a new app today, known as iResponse App.  According to the application’s website, this app “provides educational and training institutions with the ability to use the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad to turn their lectures into an interactive learning experience.”  It has been developed by TATE, Incorporated, and can be found in the Canadian iTunes store for $4.99 or the New Zealand iTunes store for $6.49.  I did not download the application, as without a class to test this out in, I didn’t feel the need.  A neat idea, the description and screenshots on the website indicate that the student would receive his/her test via push message.  The teacher would be able to see which students have logged into the application and are taking the test.  The results of each question are presented to the student immediately.  I feel that this is definitely something that is a great idea, and could prove to be a great new way for students to learn.  Most courses that I take are taught in an online environment, so learning on and with technology is a welcome concept in my mind.Questions and concerns that I have regarding this program, however, include the following: 1. Would you be required to purchase an iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad in order to take the course?  The website clearly indicates that this application is only available for download onto one of those devices.  2. All courses that I have taken and am taking have had strict guidelines forbidding computers and phones during tests (unless of course it’s a computer-related course).  What kind of controls would the teacher be able to place to keep students from cheating?  Tests taken with this application could be treated in the same manner as an open book test, but there isn’t really any way to stop people from sending quick texts or IM messages while they are taking the test.  I am not really sure what controls could be put into place to minimize concern 2, but I do believe that in order to get past the issue in concern number 1, there would have to be either a computer application or an option for students to borrow a device for the class.As I mentioned above, I am quite a fan of learning with and on technology.  Having a testing platform linked to my phone can definitely be a welcome change in my mind.  I am still trying to absorb how it will change the learning environments, but from the looks of it, I can definitely see how it could make a teacher’s life easier!Now, I would like to put out the following question: How do you feel about adding this concept to the classroom?