1. Digital Tools in Today’s Classrooms

2.  Platform  PC (personal computer)  Mac (Apple)  Connectivity  Wired- connected to the Internet through physical devices such as cables, routers etc.  Wireless- PDAs and most laptops are connected using radio waves much like a cell phone or radio.  Main difference is mobility and connection speed.  Device Software- printers, scanners, web cameras, wireless mice and keyboards, etc may require installation of ‘driver’ software.  File Format- due to varied nature of technology use, multiple types of digital formats are needed for the computer to distinguish the unique purpose of each (For PCs it is an extension; P. 64.).

3.  Computers  All in one desktop- CPU, speakers etc in one case with a flat screen.  Laptops- portable desktops with wireless.  Mobile Devices  Digital Media Players/Recorders- iPod and Digital voice recorders (DVRs capture podcasts etc.)  Digital Cameras  eBook Readers- presents electronic books in a reader-friendly format that resembles a book.  GPS Navigation- can determine location, speed, direction, etc.  Graphing Calculators- programmable calculators capable of plotting graphs  PDAs (personal data assistants)- palm sized multifunctional minicomputers  Personal Response Systems- polling device that allows real-time student responses to questions.  Page 75

4.  Peripherals  Audio devices- microphones, headphones and speakers  Interactive Whiteboards- emulate touchscreen of a computer  Printers- Inkjet (small dots), Laser (like photocopy)  Projectors- displays computer screen on whiteboard, screen or wall.  Scanners- similar to printers or photocopiers.  Science Probes- used to collect data for use in scientific studies (example on page 83).  Webcams- small digital camera.  Data Storage  Flash Drives- USB connection  Storage Cards- fit inside digital cameras, music player or game.