Education has seen many enhancements, thanks to the increased integration of software technology within the classroom. These improvements are opening many doors and preparing a student for the lives they will choose to leave post-college and in their career. Technology offers varied assessment measures, real-world integration, and promotes individualized learning. Teachers of all subjects must be familiar with the different areas that tech can be included in the classrooms and the ways that these devices or opportunities will improve student education and learning. Here are some of the tech services that belong in any classroom.
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Table of Contents
Projectors
Long gone are the overhead projects that sat ominously on a gray cart and were rolled around on squeaky, rigid casters. The modern projector can display interactive messages through a variety of devices onto almost any flat surface. Projectors aren’t just for lecture notes. They can provide tours through apps like Google Expedition or they can bring local news into the classroom for updates on current events. Some of the more high-tech projectors relay interactive imaging that students can manipulate through body movement and placement.
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Smartboards
Interactive projectors are only one way of improving the multi-presentational option. Smartboards are like the traditional whiteboards that allow for writing, but individuals are able to use real or digital markers. They pass traditional whiteboard options by offering recordings of what was written or drawn on the board, and the digital marker is used as a tangible visual element. More advanced board, like the Promethean board, is essentially a touch-enabled digital computer screen. Students are able to manipulate images, and through internet connectivity, students anywhere can be connected to what is going on in the classroom.
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Smart Tables
A more innovative adaption of the smartboard, smart tables are physical tables that respond to touch elements in their digital displays. These take the information off the wall and put it on the table for students and teachers to work on simultaneously. This option makes information and connectivity more accessible to multiple ages and ability levels and brings a unique touch to the classroom.
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Computer, Tablets, Smartphones
Computers and tablets have been in the classroom for quite some time, and having these devices in the classroom to enhance learning potential is quite common in most developed countries. There has been considerable success in using them with education systems that promote flipped classroom experiences, where a student watches a lecture or video outside of class through the connected devices and completes assignments in class with fellow learners.
Tech in the classroom is one way to ensure the next generations will be at the top of their game. It has already shown promise in classrooms that have been able to incorporate it.