Options for Whiteboards When Teaching HyFlex
Strategies for using or simulating a whiteboard when teaching HyFlex
Option 1: Use the SMART podium that is available in most classrooms.
Pros:
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- Supported by IT
- Widely available in classrooms
Cons:
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- SMART board is fixed at instructor station (instructor can't move about the room)
Option 2: Use the document camera that is available in most classrooms.
Pros:
-
- Supported by IT
- Widely available in classrooms
Cons:
-
- Document camera is fixed at instructor station (instructor can't move about the room)
- Document camera is fixed at instructor station (instructor can't move about the room)
Option 3: Join your Zoom/Blackboard Collaborate with a tablet (e.g., iPad or Surface). Use the whiteboard feature in your meeting app, ideally with a stylus.
Pros:
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- Easy to set up.
- Good writing/drawing experience if you have a newer device.
- Works when in a temporary classroom or teaching remote - even if you have to go to quarantine!
Cons:
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- Need a device.
- Older devices may not work as well. (Note: you can use the stylus ordered by IT or get an inexpensive stylus that works with older devices)
- Depends on you remembering to charge your device.
- Feedback if you forget to disable audio.
Option 4: Create a makeshift document camera by mounting your smartphone on a tripod, angling the camera to what you want displayed, and joining it to the Zoom/Collaborate meeting.
Pros:
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- Easy to set up.
- Cameras on phones are typically very high quality.
- Works when teaching remote - even if you have to go to quarantine!
Cons:
-
- Need a tripod. (Can purchase from Amazon for about $20)
- Depends on you remembering to charge your device.
- Feedback if you forget to disable audio.
- Can be tricky to get a good camera angle depending on the surface you wish to focus on.