Digital Tools in Today’s Classrooms

Platform PC (personal computer) Mac (Apple)

Connectivity Wired- connected to the Internet through physical devices

such as cables, routers etc. Wireless- PDAs and most laptops are connected using

radio waves much like a cell phone or radio. Main difference is mobility and connection speed.

Device Software- printers, scanners, web cameras, wireless mice and keyboards, etc may require installation of ‘driver’ software.

File Format- due to varied nature of technology use, multiple types of digital formats are needed for the computer to distinguish the unique purpose of each (For PCs it is an extension; P. 64.).

Computers All in one desktop- CPU, speakers etc in one case with a flat

screen. Laptops- portable desktops with wireless.

Mobile Devices Digital Media Players/Recorders- iPod and Digital voice recorders

(DVRs capture podcasts etc.) Digital Cameras eBook Readers- presents electronic books in a reader-friendly

format that resembles a book. GPS Navigation- can determine location, speed, direction, etc. Graphing Calculators- programmable calculators capable of

plotting graphs PDAs (personal data assistants)- palm sized multifunctional

minicomputers Personal Response Systems- polling device that allows real-time

student responses to questions. Page 75

Peripherals Audio devices- microphones, headphones and speakers Interactive Whiteboards- emulate touchscreen of a

computer Printers- Inkjet (small dots), Laser (like photocopy) Projectors- displays computer screen on whiteboard,

screen or wall. Scanners- similar to printers or photocopiers. Science Probes- used to collect data for use in scientific

studies (example on page 83). Webcams- small digital camera.

Data Storage Flash Drives- USB connection Storage Cards- fit inside digital cameras, music player or

game.