AUDIOVISUAL TECHNOLOGIES

Introduction There are several technologies available for use in the classroom. Audiovisual technologies offer a way to make a classroom more interactive and in turn enhances students’ learning experience. In addition, it is important for educators to be familiar with the audiovisual tools available and also how they apply to their teaching and the learning process.

Overhead Projector An overhead projector transfers images placed on its lens, onto a projector screen. It can be used to display pictures, graphics or text to the entire classroom. For example, if a teacher wanted to share pie graph charts for math class, the teacher would place pre-made charts on the projector lens or draw the graphs, as they explain the math material. The benefit of using a projector is that the whole class can visually see the display and follow along. The challenge may be that not every school can afford to have multiple projectors.

Movie Projector A movie projector is used to display moving pictures onto a screen. It allows a teacher to show movies, videos or documentaries of their lesson plan. The modern day movie projector is now a VCR or DVD player. The benefit in using this technology is for a teacher to find numerous lessons that can be shown through a movie or video. The challenge may be that students can become distracted and not retain the information as well, since they are not interacting with the learning process.

Tape Recorder A tape recorder allows information to be stored and played back. A teacher can record lesson information and play it back for the class, on an as need basis. Tape recorders have been revised and are now mostly seen in the form of CD players or Ipod’s. The benefit of incorporating a record and playback device is that they are moderately priced and the information that is stored can be used when needed or erased and new information can be stored. The challenge is that is does not offer the visual capacity of other technologies.

Television Television offers learning information to be displayed. In addition, it is the portal for information to be displayed from VCR or DVD players. Television can be used to watch a documentary in the classroom or assign a certain program for students to watch at home. The benefit of using a television is that students may find it more interesting, since TV is large part of their culture today. The challenge is that not all classrooms have a TV and a teacher may have to schedule a time for the use of a TV in the school.

Conclusion In conclusion, “What’s the best Audiovisual technology to put into a classroom?” My answer usually is, “It depends” (Hamilton, 2012). There are numerous technologies available to use within a classroom and it is important to weigh which one is the best to use for a particular lesson plan. Technologies include audio, visual and digital. An educator can use these technologies separate or as a combination, in order to enhance a student’s learning experience.

References Lever-Duffy, J. & McDonald, J. B. (2011). Teaching and learning with technology (4th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. Allyn & Bacon. Hamilton, T (2012). Classroom Audio-Visual Technologies that Work. Retrieved April 2, 2012, from http://www.acousticsbydesign.com/.../classroom-audio-visual-technologies. Help with PowerPoint creation: http://wwwguidesandtutorials.com