Initiatives+to+Address+Needs

Technology is an important part of our lives. Technology that can be used in the classroom can greatly impact student learning. I would like to improve student achievement by making information and lessons easier to view, shown in color, and three dimensional by bringing document cameras and projectors to each classroom.  "Document cameras are real-time image capture devices for displaying an object to a large audience. Like an opaque projector, a document camera is able to magnify and project the images of actual, three-dimensional objects, as well as transparencies." ("Document Camera," 2010) Currently, many teachers use overhead projectors. Document cameras are an improved version with the capabilities to zoom in on small printing in books, project printed pages in color, and be used in a room that is fully lite, unlike the overhead. "A digital projector is a specialized computer display that projects an enlarged image on a movie screen." ("digital projector," 2005)

 The process of purchasing any new item should begin with research. Finding the pro's and con's of the products gives you a better idea of what you are buying and what to expect.

__**Benefits of a Document Camera and Projector **__ I found many articles telling about the benefits of document cameras and projectors in the classroom. One of the most obvious benefits it is that students have a better view of the information that the teacher is presenting to the class. "A document camera is also a great classroom management tool. For example, the teacher can use the document camera to display a kitchen timer while the class is working in groups or independently. A picture schedule can also be displayed to help English Language Learners understand directions." ("Document Camera," 2010) Often teachers or students want to show something to everyone in a classroom which requires time to walk around from student to student. Students can see what is being presented on a document camera simultaneously so the teacher is saving time. In many grades, the teacher can also save paper by "eliminating multiple copies, illustrations or even textbooks." ("How can a," 2007) "Document cameras are also an excellent tool when striving to create a "green" school. No more transparencies. Paperless handouts are now possible." ("Document Camera," 2010) An article from eSchool News gives examples of lessons that made easier using a document camera.
 * Demonstrating actual pen strokes of a writing lesson
 * Solving a mathematical equation
 * Showing how to sculpt clay
 * Demonstrating a live dissection
 * Displaying important book or textbook passages
 * Displaying microscopic images
 * Showcasing historical artifacts
 * Much more! ("How can a," 2007)

Mrs. Theresa Brown, a 3rd grade teacher, participated in a case study where she said that "Almost immediately, student attention increased as "larger than life" documents and objects were presented to them. Students were more apt to stay on task, and demonstrations made a greater impact on comprehension and understanding." (AVerMedia) Mrs. Brown also mentioned that her student's confidence increased when they volunteered to come and show work using the document camera.

Document cameras can be used in any grade level, any subject and are easy to integrate into any lesson. Document cameras are easy to use, requiring minimal support and training. "Document cameras are easy to connect to a projector and computer, easy to switch between itself and the computer, easy to zoom focus and reposition, and easily achieve high end results!" ("How can a," 2007) Although many technological solutions are available for the classroom setting, document cameras are cost-effective teaching tools that can be integrated with other forms of technology improve the learning experience." (AVerMedia)

One of the other forms of technology that usually accompanies a document camera is a digital projector. A digital projector "is a specialized computer display that projects an enlarged image on a movie screen." ("digital projector," 2005) Although document cameras can project images without a projector, a projector can be attached to a computer to show images and videos found online.

<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">One article from eSchool News stated that this equipment was able to be used in a wide range of settings, was applicable to most classrooms, easy to use, easy to integrate, requires minimal training and support and stands the test of time. ("How can a," 2007)

__**<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Con's of a Document Camera and Projector **__ <span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">As with any new piece of equipment, cost is a consideration. Although I did not find many negative comments about document cameras and projectors, cost was the one factor that kept appearing in the articles I read. "A projector is needed for displaying the information. A separate document camera is needed for demonstrating 3D objects, textbooks or reports. This is all together a very costly package." ("Going wireless: a," 2004) Cost can vary for $700 to $3000.("Document Camera," 2010) Another concern was that neither the document camera or projector could play recorded sound. (Mavers, 2009) Also, like all technology, eventually this equipment will have to be replaced. The issue of cost is addressed on the funding page, while replacement is addressed on the maintenance and recycling timeline page.

Needs Assessment and Identification of Focus Area  Addressing Standards