Chapter 4 Review Questions [p159]

1.       Scanners are input devices that transfer prints into digital data, for use on computers. Some possible uses in the classroom would be to add student’s reports to a plagiary checking system or to scan pictures for use in class projects.

2.       A digital camera can take more pictures, which are saved in the camera or to a memory card, which provides more space, and are immediately able to be reviewed. With a 35mm or 110mm camera user has to develop the film. A digital camera is, by far, the better option to use in the classroom because it will allow the quicker access to more pictures.

3.       A graphic tablet allows students to draw on a tablet that is connected to the computer. The electronic pen used to write with shows what was written on the screen. It could be helpful in learning because you could write formulas or diagrams on the screen then save them to a class website that the students can access from their home.

4.       Digitized sound can be input and used in the classroom in a number of ways. A mircrophone, CD or even a Keyboard can be used for input purposes. The best option for output is a set of headphones (for one on one use) or speakers (for a group of students).

5.       A PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) is a wireless device that has many different functions and applications. It is typically used to manage information and personal schedules. They a great way to keep track of students emergency contact information and have it readily accessible. A tablet PC is essential an electronic pad of paper. It is about the size of a standard writing pad, but thicker. One use in the classroom is as a way for a teacher to show a digital presentation without the barrier of the computer and monitor between the teacher and the class.

6.       An electronic whiteboard differs from the standard whiteboard in that it has a built in scanner that allows everything that is written on the board to be recorded saved, whereas with a standard whiteboard once it is erased, all the data that was on it is gone. It is more useful because you can pull up what you wrote later for review or you can add the notes to a website for students to access from their home.

7.       Data projection units are necessary in the classroom because they give teachers access to a wider range of material the can be presented then the standard overhead projectors offered. It allows PowerPoint presentations and online videos to be viewed by the entire class, whereas the old overheads only allowed teachers to present typed or hand written materials. There are many types of data projectors available with different capabilities and features. The LCD projector is a lightweight unit that can normally project pictures and videos. The most inexpensive type of projector is a scan converter, which plugs into the computer and converts the pictures of videos to an analog format.

8.       Some emerging technologies that would be particularly useful in the classroom are E-Books and Handheld Computers. Handheld Computers would offer a convenient way for both teachers and students for note taking and internet access. E-Books are probably the most useful to the emerging technologies. Textbooks can be loaded to E-Books and update easily without the cost of having to print new editions. Students can also take digital notes on sections as they read them.

9.       When computers increase in power, decrease in size, and gains wireless technology that is more powerful, they become more mobile. More mobility allows students to take notes in class digitally, carry text books without a lot of weight, have immediate availability to homework assignments which the teacher can post online, and have access to different education application whether they are at school in the classroom, traveling on a car trip, or at home sick. For teachers, more mobility would mean they can move about the class, possibly being able to provide a bit more one on one instruction while still having computer support.

10.   Virtual Reality is a combination of hardware and software that together create a digital environment with which you can interact. Potential uses include creating virtual museums for students, taking virtual field trips and allowing students to view dangerous in their natural environment or extinct creatures, such as dinosaurs.