Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Module 1: Identify an Emerged Technology

Smart Classroom
http://thejournal.com/articles/2007/06/01/are-document-cameras-the-next-big-thing.aspx

A current technology that has emerged in the last few years that has enhanced learning in the educational arena would be the document camera. A problem that has been associated with this technology is the constant connecting and reconnecting that takes place when you switch from the video mode to the computer mode. The connectors that screw into the back of the camera are also a problem due to the fact that the screws continue coming out the sockets as you disconnect the video cable from the camera.
Purchasing a document camera for every classroom can be costly; however, using the document camera minimizes the amount of paper copies which in returns helps with recycling. There are also several benefits to using a document camera. The auto focus comes in handy when adjusting the size of the image that is being displayed. The directional light is also a great asset because it helps illuminate images in a dark setting. The controls and major functions of the camera are located on the base of the camera which makes it easy to adjust and operate. To make this technology even better would be to eliminate the cords that connect the camera to the computer and replace them with a wireless connection.