1. Digital Technologies in the Classroom
Teaching and Learning
with Technology
Chapter 6
Digital Technologies in the Classroom
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2. Input Devices in the Classroom
Scanners
Convert printed copy or images into a digital version
With optical character recognition (OCR) software, scanned text can be saved as a word processing file
Flatbed scanners may scan one page or multiple pages and can scan from a book
The higher the resolution or dots per inch (dpi), the larger the file

3. Input Devices in the Classroom
Digital Cameras
Capture images to storage media
The higher the resolution, the sharper the picture, but also the larger the file size
Several media used: CompactFlash, Secure Digital, xD Picture, Memory Stick, MicroDrive, SmartMedia, even CD/DVDs
Many cameras also record video
Sony Cybershot used by
permission of Sony Electronics,
Inc; Olympus with LCD used
by Permission of Olympus
America, Inc.

4. Input Devices in the Classroom
Digital Cameras (cont.)
Can download images to computer to view, edit, and use with other programs
Most have with LCD screens to view images before and after you take pictures
Digital photos can be used in many software programs or can be printed
Webcam – another type of digital camera attached to or built into a computer

5. Input Devices in the Classroom
Graphics (or Digital) Tablets
Stylus used to draw on electronic pad
Pressure of the stylus on the pad is converted to images or commands
Allows more precise control than mouse, can be used for creating art work
Used to create original images or enhance or annotate

6. Input Devices in the Classroom
Sound Input Devices
Microphone (mic) built in most PCs
External mic may also plug into PC
Used to save interviews, add commentary, or record music to enhance computer presentation or tutorial
Recordings can support auditory learners
Sound files tend to be large

7. Input Devices in the Classroom
Pen Input Devices
Used with
Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
Tablet PCs
Stylus pressed against screen
Records commands or handwriting
Can be converted to word processed file

8. Input Devices in the Classroom
Tablet PCs
In essence, a notebook PC with input functionality like a PDA
Portable, convenient, and lightweight
Converts handwriting into a word processing file
Drawings saved as graphics files.
Often offer wireless access to networks

9. Input Devices in the Classroom
Touch Screens
Computer monitor screen responds to touch
Touch icons or menu items rather than use mouse
Best at receiving commands and selections
Useful assistive device for students who are preliterate and/or have limited motor skills

10. Input Devices in the Classroom
Electronic Whiteboards
Dry erase markers can be used to write or draw
Captures writing or drawing and saves as digital file
Files can be printed or shared electronically
Portable devices can convert regular whiteboard into an electronic whiteboard.

11. Output Devices in the Classroom
Data/video projectors
Connect to computer to display large image
Most common technology: LCD, LED, or DLP
Displays computer and video images
Usually has remote control, multiple inputs, and speakers
Becoming smaller and cheaper

12. Output Devices in the Classroom
Scan Converter
Converts digital computer signal for display on analog TV
Very inexpensive compared to other digital display devices
Resolution limited to that of TV’s display

13. Output Devices in the Classroom
Speakers and Headphones
Small speakers plug into PC, play audio or sound associated with software
Headphones can be plugged into the same port or one on a sound card
To accommodate multiple headphones, a splitter can be used

14. Emerging Technologies
Wireless
Wireless fidelity (WiFi) uses very fast radio frequency (RF) connections
Connects computers and handheld devices
Use spreading quickly, becoming more common than hard-wired computers
Wireless networks eliminate cost of retrofitting schools for network cables
Wireless networks improve flexibility with physical location and arrangement

15. Emerging Technologies
PDAs, Smartphones, and Netbooks
Once rapidly growing, PDA capabilities now being found in smartphones
Smartphones offer capabilities until recently found only in computers
Although they have much potential, smartphones, which are cell phones, have not integrated well into schools
Netbooks have become very popular with students and travelers

16. Emerging Technologies
E-books
Displays electronic multimedia version of a book
May enable note taking and/or other features
Can store many books
Can also read books aloud
Devices available from Kindle, Sony, Apple, and others

17. Emerging Technologies
Voice-Activated Devices/Software
Lets you communicate/issue commands with a computer via your voice
Can eliminate need for typing or clicking
Widely used as assistive device
Can make computing more flexible, including freeing users from keyboard or mouse

18. Emerging Technologies
USB Drives
Also called jump, flash, or keychain drives
Small, lightweight devices with large storage capacity
Memory card-like storage (no moving parts)
Use erasable and reprogrammable chip

19. Computers in the Classroom
Computer hardware makes it possible to enhance teaching and learning
Computer software focuses hardware on classroom-specific teaching and learning tasks
Teachers should review and evaluate both hardware and software carefully to ensure selection of the best support tools