from Technology & Learning

Document cameras are becoming a staple for schools. Here's a rundown on the latest and what to consider before purchasing.

Document cameras have come a long way from the big, hot overhead projectors of the 1960s. Today document cameras (also called visualizers or document imagers) use electronic cameras to capture documents, books, and photos then use high-intensity lights and lenses to display them on-screen.

But that's not all: Many document cameras can serve as tripod-mounted cameras, allowing educators to display 3D artifacts. Some can even rotate their heads to capture students on camera, and many can be connected to PCs to provide double duty as multimedia projectors.

As with any product, capabilities and prices vary. Things to look for include number of megapixels offered (more means higher picture resolution and detail), zoom capabilities (optical is better than digital), and ability to interconnect with other devices.

What to Look For

What should you look for when buying a document camera? T&L spoke with Jane Miller, an instructional technology facilitator with Spokane Public Schools in Spokane, Washington.

At the minimum, says Miller, "It is imperative that the models under consideration have the ability to project a clear image of 12-14 font that can be viewed from the back of the room," Also important are "the ability to focus easily, a tilting head to accommodate various sized materials, the ability to zoom in on objects, and an on-board control panel that is easy to use."

To get the most out of a document camera, look for one with remote control capability, at least three megapixels of resolution, and auto focus. According to Miller, "Auto focus is extremely important. Many teachers have trouble distinguishing what needs to be adjusted, the focus of the projector or the camera."

The Spokane Plan

So what document cameras does Spokane Public Schools choose? In 2002 it bought about 34 Elmo DP70s at $500 each, using a grant from the Gates Foundation. "By 2004 the Spokane community passed a technology bond that began the next purchase phase of emergent technologies," Miller says. "After much research, our district began purchasing the AVerMedia (AVerVision) brand of document cameras. This decision was made based on the quality of the projection, price, and functions."

Of the AVerVision document cameras purchased, Miller prefers the 300AF—which usually run between $650 and $699 each. "This model has been a delight," she says. "The auto-focus capability and improvements on the remote control and software allow for ease of use."

James Careless is a freelance journalist based in Ottawa, Canada.

T&L compares some of the best document cameras for schools.