Options for Whiteboards When Teaching HyFlex

Option 1: Use the SMART podium that is available in most classrooms. 

Pros:

1. 1. Supported by IT
   2. Widely available in classrooms

Cons:

1. 1. 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:

1. 1. Supported by IT
   2. Widely available in classrooms

Cons:

1. 1. 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:

1. 1. Easy to set up.
   2. Good writing/drawing experience if you have a newer device.
   3. Works when in a temporary classroom or teaching remote - even if you have to go to quarantine!

Cons:

1. 1. Need a device.
   2. 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)
   3. Depends on you remembering to charge your device.
   4. 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:

1. 1. Easy to set up.
   2. Cameras on phones are typically very high quality.
   3. Works when teaching remote - even if you have to go to quarantine!

Cons:

1. 1. Need a tripod. (Can purchase from Amazon for about $20)
   2. Depends on you remembering to charge your device.
   3. Feedback if you forget to disable audio.
   4. Can be tricky to get a good camera angle depending on the surface you wish to focus on.