How to Build a Document Camera
As more and more schools have access to technology, a document camera is a teaching tool that has replaced overhead projectors as a way to share information with students. A document camera allows the user to project textbook pages, printouts or other documents onto a screen or wall. According to the company that produces ELMO, a popular brand of document camera, the document camera as a teaching tool helps to engage students and improves their ability to concentrate. If you don't have access to a document camera, you can rig up your own using tools available in your own classroom.
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Things You'll Need
- Webcam
- USB cable
- Webcam software
- Overhead projector
- Zip ties
- Double-sided foam tape
- Wall-mount tacky gum
- Computer
- Computerized projector
Instructions
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Attach your webcam to your computer with a USB cable. Install webcam software and pull the video feed up so that it fills the screen of your computer.
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Attach your webcam to the projection head of an overhead projector using zip ties. If your webcam is lightweight, you can secure it with double-sided foam tape, or wall-mounting gum.
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Point the webcam downward and adjust the lens so that the focus is fixed on any object that is lying on the bed of the projector.
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Connect a computerized projector to your computer and point it at a screen or wall so that whatever is on the screen of your computer is also projected at the wall. You have now created a homemade document camera.
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