A document camera works as an overhead projector to display presentations to a class, but is not limited to transparencies.The lens on the camera can capture handwritten documents, book pages, photo images and three-dimensional items. A computer can be connected to the document camera to allow any document in the computer to be displayed overhead. The document camera enhances students' learning and teachers' professional development.
Instructions
1. Research document cameras online. Read reviews to learn about the different models available and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Every document camera can capture and project documents.
2. Read the instruction manual before you set up the document camera. Set the document camera on a front table or tall podium directed at the projection screen. A whiteboard also can be used to project the image.
3. Plug the document camera into a power source. Use an extension cable if necessary. Turn on the document camera and let it warm up. Place a black and white page with text and an image under the lens.
4. Adjust the lens until the smallest text is clear. Move the document camera body forward to increase the size of the image on the screen or backwards to reduce it. Tilt the lens up or down to center the image.
5. Present sample essays or student work during class by placing the documents under the lens. Experiment with writing on a document while it is under the lens for essay correction or math problem solutions. Learn writing techniques that will not cast a shadow or distort the image under the lens.
6. Connect a computer to the back of the document camera with USB or audiovisual cables. You may be required to upload software in advance. Click on a document from your computer or select a presentation.
7. Design a PowerPoint slide presentation on any class subject with a colorful template, creative images and large text. Play the slide show on your computer, and it will be displayed on the screen through the document camera. Supplement the presentation with student contributions.
Tips Warnings
Leave the document camera set up continuously and incorporate it into your daily curriculum. Design a two-minute introduction that can be projected at the beginning of each class to focus the class.
Ask one technical savvy student to be in charge of the equipment. This will prevent everyone in class from troubleshooting when a problem arises. Plus he can assist with cables and lens adjustments.
Tags: teach, document, camera, document camera, under lens, camera capture, image under, image under lens, your computer
