I think one of the most powerful technology tools available is a document camera. I recently hosted a technology sharing session where teachers showed how they are using their document camera...it was amazing.

Do any of you have a document camera? What are some ways you use it?

Cheers,
Mark

Hi,

My wife is the best example I can think of. She teaches 3rd grade. None of these uses are glamorous but they are very effective.

Teaching measurement...put the ruler under the document camera so the students can see the graduations.

Do all your manipulatives work under the camera.

Reading a book to the class...put it under the camera.

Put your lesson plans under the camera . For example, if your students write down their homework in a journal, just put your plans under the camera...no need to write it on the board.

Put flashcards under the camera. Students love it when the cards are huge and easily visible.

Do all your science experiments under the camera. Live specimens, such as meal worms or caterpillars are really cool under the camera.

Teach counting money under the camera. If your camera has a good zoom...zoom in on all the hidden features on money.

While the students are completing worksheets (or any paperwork) have one student work under the camera.

If your students make projects such as dioramas, use the camera to show the work on the screen.

If your students are checking answers on some work, just put your TE or answersheet under the camera.

Some of the best teachers I know put almost everything they use in the classroom under the camera. From gerbils to calculators, it makes a big impact on your teaching.

Hope this helps.

Thanks,
Mark

Capture student products for end of year DVD, Open House, etc.

Archive student products as examples for future classes.

Document evidence of possible disabilities in student work for referrals.

Record a video modeling an algorithm in math.

Archive each stage in the writing process for a particular piece of writing.

Capture the pages of a picture book (for personal use).

Correct warm-ups, homework, tests, etc. without writing on the paper.

Create time-lapse captures for science experiments.

Collaborative peer editing of student writing samples.

Electronic write-away folder.

Pre-capture the steps or stages for arts and craft type student products.

Record a video of how to write a student’s name.

Document notes home for classroom file before sending them home.

Capture student products for end of year DVD, Open House, etc.

Create a digital portfolio for each student.