Document cameras with LCD projectors (doc cams) are the bridge to getting veteran teacher technophobes to integrate technology into the classroom. By replacing the overhead projector of yore, the document camera upgrades the teacher’s ability to share materials without having to make copies on transparencies. Doc cams have a full compliment of functions that render the overhead obsolete, including the ability to zoom in or capture images. Universities are embracing the document camera as an essential part of meeting the needs of student technophiles (Gray & Erb, 2009). Additionally, using a document camera is not as intimidating to the new adopter as an interactive whiteboard due to its relatively simple set up and improved portability. Initially, cost was a limiting factor for document cameras, though as the technology improves and as competition for market share increases, prices are reaching levels comparable to the older illumination projectors.
Many models of document cameras are available, including those that include a projection system. The doc cam is a perfect compliment to the LCD or other display and can even be linked to a web cam for distance learning programs. Though the display for the doc cam may change to include flat-panel systems in classrooms as noted by Thornburg (2009), the ability to capture real time video and text makes the doc cam an invaluable tool in the 21st century classroom. The elements that will enable the doc cam to completely outmode the overhead projector are: increased portability, decreased cost of maintenance, and efforts by schools to minimize waste. Though the overall technology will continue to improve, the concept of the document camera will become an established innovation within the next few years.
References
Gray, K., & Erb, R.. (2009). College technology 'catching up' with students. Retrieved March 18, 2010 from,
Thornburg,
Shane,
ReplyDeleteWe have a couple of document cameras at our school that are called Elmos. I agree that this technology is aimed towards veteran teachers. Younger teachers find it a hassle to have to print out the materials, an additional step, rather than just projecting them through a projector. One feature Elmos do well is in biology class. A teacher can place a heart on the Elmo during dissecting so that the entire class can see it.
Nice Post,
Dave Harms