Document Cameras in the Classroom

Document cameras have been around for a while, but better cameras are becoming more affordable for schools. Schools in our district have purchased several over the past couple of years due to funding from grants. This led me to do a little more research as to how to best use and initiate use of document cameras by teachers.

Document cameras are probably one of the easiest ways to move the more reluctant teacher to use newer technology because it closely mimics their old favorite, the overhead projector. The document camera provides much more flexibility and eliminates "ye olde melted transparency in the copy machine syndrome."

Here are a few tips and tricks I've picked up from helping and watching others use the document camera as well as great web resources.

1) The Notebook -
When using the document camera to take notes in class it works well to use a spiral bound notebook for each class/ subject. Date the page in the notebook as you begin the class period and write your notes as usual. Staple copies of worksheets or other works edited in the notebook. This is a great tool to help absent students catch up on missing notes.

Spiral bound notebooks not your thing? Then, grab a binder, loose leaf paper, tabbed dividers and a hole puncher. After you take the notes just slip them in the notebook for future reference.

2) Show and Tell
For younger kids, the document camera is a great tool for showing smaller objects and math manipulatives. Who needs special overhead tools when any old object will do.

3) Smile You're on Candid Camera
Having kids share reports in front of the class? Turn the camera towards the students and have them appear on the screen. They'll show up on the big screen and feel like a rock star!


Great Websites Sharing Document Camera Ideas
Using the Document Camera in the Early Childhood Classroom - http://www.pre-kpages.com/elmo.html

Classroom Uses for Document Cameras - http://www.timbedley.com/articles/article05.htm

100 Ideas for Using the Data Projector and Document Camera - http://www.umesd.k12.or.us/techlinks_100ideas

Teaching Tips: Classroom Use of ELMO Document Cameras - http://www.emints.org/ethemes/resources/S00002162.shtml

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