As teachers, we all know the importance of moving around the classroom and not staying in one spot for an entire lesson. Moving around helps with classroom management, checking for understanding and much more. One thing that can tether us to our laptops is when we project our screen to a LCD projector or TV. If hardwired, you may be limited to where your laptop can be in the room. Some of us have apps that allow you to mirror or cast wirelessly, but those wireless connections are not always reliable. Many teachers use clickers, but a good clicker can be expensive and clickers do not have the ability to type.
A low cost alternative is a bluetooth keyboard with touchpad. One of my favorites is by Logitech and can be purchased on Amazon for $24.99 (at the moment). This model is pictured below. Stores like Best Buy, Target, Walmart and Big Lots all sell similar products.
A bluetooth keyboard with touchpad allows you to fully control your computer from anywhere in the classroom. In my classroom, I use this to teach from different spots around the room. If I need to sit next to a student for classroom management purposes, I can teach from the spot next to that student.
The bluetooth connection is extremely reliable. Some models, such as the Logitech above, run on batteries and others are charged with USB or other cables. The battery life on the Logitech is long lasting even with everyday use. The price is a reasonable investment for any educator and it's low enough that your site admin may be willing to purchase one for you.
If you have any questions and would like a follow up, contact me via Gmail or Chat at ajuarez@techcoachjuarez.com. My book, The Complete EdTech Coach: An Organic Approach to Digital Learning, co-authored with my wife Katherine Goyette is now available on Amazon. Click here to purchase. It is published by Dave Burgess Publishing. Be sure to follow the hashtag #OrganicEdTech and #CVTechTalk for updates.
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