Digital Technologies Classroom Wish List

After considering the various types of digital technologies presented in this chapter, what three pieces of equipment do you think you would most want for your future or current classroom? Explain why you selected these three and how you would use them for teaching and learning.

1. A scanner is an input device that captures and then translates printed copy or images into digital data into the computer. Once an image is in digital format it can be edited using various software. Publishing programs incorporate digital images to create class newsletters, or presentation programs create lecture support visuals. Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) scanners help grade tests and analyze results, saving time while tracking student progress.

2. Digital cameras input photographic images directly without having to scan them (although the scanner has other more versatile features). Pictures can be previewed saving time and storage space. Digital photos can be manipulated with computer software. Some digital cameras can record brief video and audio clips, and zoom for close images. Students would be motivated to learn digital photography and associated software applications because of academic and personal use benefits.

3. A data projector plugs into the computer’s monitor port and displays the signals that are also sent to the monitor, providing a display that is large and bright enough to be seen across the classroom. Data projectors can also accept a variety of video inputs making them an effective replacement for the classroom TV monitor.

Reference: Lever-Duffy, Judy & McDonald, Jean. Teaching and Learning with Technology, 3rd ed. Pearson Publishing, 2008.