Philip Resnik's React Labs software featured during UMD's Debate Watch event

The University of Maryland's Presidential Debate Watch event (October 3, 2012) showcased React Labs, a new software platform for real-time reactions and polling responses. Developed by Professor Philip Resnik, React Labs runs on popular mobile devices, such as the iPhone, iPad, and Android, as well as laptops running Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. During the debate, React Labs users were able to register real-time, instantaneous reactions to responses from President Obama and Governor Romney.

Hundreds of participants were able to select buttons on their smartphones or laptops when they agreed or disagreed with a response from the candidates. In addition, attendees could indicate when they thought candidates were "spinning" answers or dodging a question posed by the moderator. Attendees were able to watch the reactions unfold in real time. At the end of the debate, Professor Resnik and Dean Don Kettl of the School of Public Policy analyzed the results.