Technologies Used in the Classroom
Technologies used in the classroom now are much more different than ones used even in the late 1990s. In the past, when some advanced technologies first were introduced to education, they were found mostly in upper grade levels in science. Now, many of these technologies are used from kindergarten all the way through higher education in most subject areas.
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Computers
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Students use desktop and laptop computers in some classrooms. The computer has become one of the more basic pieces of technology in the classroom. Some students use older models with bulky monitors, and others have large flat-screen monitors; some schools even are allowing students to use personal laptops in the classroom. Students use computers for simple tasks such as typing papers, researching colleges and jobs, taking practice tests and creating their own videos. Many advanced technologies used in the classroom, including projectors and interactive products, often rely on computers for operation.
Smart Technologies
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Some schools that can afford such are integrating smart products into classrooms. Technologies include notebooks, document cameras, projectors and accompanying software, offered by companies such as Smart Technologies and ELMO. With these technologies, teachers can use a computer or projection system to display words, documents, physical items and images on a screen. Software allows teachers to create visual lesson plans and share files with fellow educators. Companies also offers special audio equipment, software and resources and training materials.
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Interactive Technologies
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Some classrooms are using interactive boards such as Promethean's ActivBoards to engage students in teaching and learning. Products include wall-mounted boards and accompanying interactive tools such as pens, tablets, slates and wands. Student response systems such as ActiVote and ActivExpression allow students to vote on a choice of answers or respond to questions from the teacher, who can collect data and instant responses from them.
Other Tools
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Although Smart Technologies and Promethean products are the most widespread products offered in the area of educational technology, some other companies specialize in high technology products used in the classroom. The company kena offers a USB-compatible digital microscope, featuring a detachable head and LED lighting; the USB connection allows students and teachers to capture and magnify images and videos. Like the other technology companies, 3Cam and Lumens also offer document cameras, to project documents and items onto a screen. Sanyo offers several projectors for small and auditorium classrooms.
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References
Resources
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