(NOTE: I converted this into a “The Best…” list after I originally wrote this post. Check out the links near the end, and please continue to offer suggestions)
And one more note: Please be sure to check out the comments!
I’ve written a lot about how people new to tech in the classroom can start getting comfortable using it (see My Best Posts For Tech Novices (Plus A Few From Other People) )
I’m also aware that many people teach in situations where they do not have tech tools available to them. Because of that, I wanted to seek suggestions from readers.
I’m a big fan of using document cameras (I guess they’re also called “visualizers) and, of course, computer LCD projectors, headphones and, of course, good inexpensive computer speakers.
What would your suggestions be for the least expensive devices out there for teaches who might want to use them in their classroom. For example, I’ve heard a lot of good things about the $69 IPEVO Point 2 View USB Camera as document camera. I’ve also heard good things about these headphones.
Are there other inexpensive tech tools you’d recommend that teachers could either push their schools to buy, or write a grant to fund, or (gulp) are affordable for a teacher to purchase on his/her own?
And what about tech tools for student use in the classroom? I know some might suggest encouraging students to use cellphones, though I’m not a big fan of that. Are there other inexpensive and sturdy tools out there for students that you’d recommend?
(NOTE: I’ve also been getting lots responses to this question over at Google+)
Ira Socal has also written a great post — It doesn’t have to be expensive…
Could Doceri be the IWB killer? is a post by Nik Peachey about a low-cost smartboard alternative.
Am I The Only Teacher In The World Who Had Not Heard Of The “Stapleless Stapler”?
Of course, you might still need to seek funds in order to buy these tools, even if they are inexpensive. If that’s the case, you might want to check out The Best Places To Learn About Education Grants.
Here’s a video from IATEFL of Matt Leddings, an EFL teacher in Spain, describing how to create a IWB with a nintendo Wii remote !
http://iatefl.britishcouncil.org/2011/sessions/2011-04-17/interview-matt-ledding
Thanks, Brad!
Larry
Thank you Larry for this. In our school we use IPEVO Point 2 View USB Camera to connect iPod touch to the Interactive Whiteboard, it is inexpensive but works magic!
Hi Larry. I’ve been following your blog for a few years now. I work in an elementary school, for 18 years as an ESL/bilingual teacher but with population shifts and cutbacks, I am now teaching Spanish K-4. Last year I was able to use an IWB which was in a vacant room and available to all, although few used it. I used it frequently. Now it is no longer available so I am interested in what you called computer LCD projectors, about how much do they run and where to get one. I was guessing that they are inexpensive because of the title of your piece.
Regina,
I did a quick review on Amazon, and it appears you can get a “low-end” one for $200 or so.
Larry
Thanks very much, Larry.
How about the TTS Easyspeak. For around £30 it records, plays back and has a handy usb connector. They’re great for recording quickly and without the fuss of microphones and cables.
Hi! I work as an ESL teacher in Costa Rica! Kids in here are loud!! I have a Sankey CD Boombox and it is not as good as I expected it to be. I am planning on buying my first speakers online, but the amount of options is OVERWHELMING!! So, while doing a bit of a research on Google I found your blog. Is there any specific brand name you would recommend? or, what would be the technical specifications I should focus on when buying them.
Thanks!!
Sorry, I don’t have a recommendation on speakers