In today’s classrooms, technology plays a major role. The generations before us had to learn to use computers, cameras, and iPhones. Students these days are now entering schools are already familiar with these technologies. This makes it very important for teachers to stay ahead of the learning curve when it comes to technology and its use in the classroom.
Computers and Laptops
I think it goes without saying that these are the most necessary pieces of technology in the classroom. Computers allow teachers to view, store, send, and receive information. They help with presenting lessons and with management and organization. They also help with preparing lesson plans, completing grade books, checking emails, making posters, preparing letters, and the list goes on. Computers also serve as the main connector to all of your other technology. Computers also help students to create projects and papers.
Multimedia Projector
Projectors are a must have in todays classrooms. They can project images, presentations, or videos from a computer, laptop, or document camera onto a screen or wall. These are helpful in making sure your whole class can see any type of presentation or video you want to show them. Since the projectors have a larger screen than computers or televisions, the projectors make it easy for students to stay focused on whatever it is the teacher is showing.
Document Camera
A document camera displays real-time visuals on a larger scale. The camera is connected to a multimedia projector. When an item, such as a book, worksheet, or science experiment is placed under the camera, it projects onto the screen live and in action. I have seen these used most in math and science classrooms. A PowerPoint can’t really teach a math problem, students need to see them worked out in real time. These cameras are a great alternative to simply writing out on a whiteboard that could be hard for some students to see.
Interactive Whiteboard
An interactive whiteboard is basically a screen that interacts with the images you project by touching the screen or using special markers. I remember when these first came out when I was in elementary school, they were called Smartboards. This device is very interactive and students love it! This device gets students to be more engaged with their lessons. It makes them excited to learn because it allows them to interact with the lesson.
iPads
iPads were just getting introduced into classrooms when I was in high school. My teachers used them in all different ways. I remember one teacher using them for review games she made for us. Another teacher used them as a way for us to be interactive during her lesson. At random points of her lesson she would give us questions and the results would show her how many students were comprehending the lessons and how many weren’t. There are countless ways iPads can be used in the classroom to help students and teachers.
Annie Casey's Blog 