Below is a list of technology accessories and resources that might be useful for teaching or participating in online courses. These suggestions are not endorsed as supported solutions by Information Technology Services (ITS), nor are they available to purchase through ITS. Additionally, purchasing links below may not be consistently available or priced due to fluctuations in the supply chain.
Suggested Computer Accessories
Document Camera for 3D objects or scientific writing
About
An inexpensive USB document camera can be useful as a replacement for one used in a classroom. The model listed below is high resolution (4K), can be used as a webcam as it has a built-in microphone, and can also be used to create recordings with tools such as Panopto.
How does it work?
This model connects to your computer via USB.
Where to purchase?
Headset
About
An inexpensive headset can help with recording of asynchronous video recordings, VOIP telephone calls, or synchronous teleconferencing. The use of a headset can greatly reduce the issues with using an open microphone on your computer.
Pros
You never have to worry about it running out of power. Most are over the ear and significantly reduce outside noise.
Cons
You are tethered to a computer. It also does not work with a mobile device.
How does it work?
USB-connected headsets are recommended because they are the least expensive and offer the most flexibility.
Where to purchase?
- While these are available from many retailers, this is a CDW link
Wired headset for a mobile device
About
A wired headset for an iPhone or Android phone can be useful if participating in activities which require you to speak, such as recording videos, or online classes. The phone you purchased may have included a wired headset (headphones with microphone). If not, you can easily purchase one that works with your device.
How does it work?
This is a physical connection to the phone. There are two different connectors: 3.5mm connection and a lightning connector. Most new iPhones come with a lightning connector and most android phones have the 3.5mm connection. It is also possible to buy a 3.5mm to lightning adaptor if you have a new iPhone but an older headset.
Where to purchase?
Headsets can be purchased from many online and brick and mortar stores including Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart.
Bluetooth headsets for computers and mobile devices.
About A wireless (Bluetooth) headset may be used with both computers and mobile devices. There are many styles of Bluetooth headsets. Apple has Air Pods and Air Pod pros. Many of the wireless noise canceling headphones you may already have include a microphone which can be used to make phone calls and participate in synchronous classes. Beats, Sony, Jabra, & Sennheiser are some of the companies that make wireless headsets.
Pros
Wireless headsets free you from being tethered to a computer or phone. They feel more natural and can be less noticeable in video communication if they are the in-ear variety. The same headset can be used by both computers and mobile devices.
Cons
If they are the in-ear variety, they can be easily lost or broken. Because they have internal batteries, they may run out of power before you are done with an activity. Many of the over the ear headsets do not have good microphones and it may be difficult for others in your meetings to hear you. Wireless headsets tend to be more expensive than a comparable wired alternative. You can only be connected to one device at a time and will need to reconnect if switching between devices.
Some popular options:
Webcam (external)
About
An inexpensive webcam may be useful if your laptop does not have a built-in camera or if you have a desktop computer. A webcam can also be used as a document camera if it has a tripod mount. A USB webcam can also be useful for distance art, dance, or music classes.
How does it work?
This camera connects via the USB port on your computer.
Where to purchase?
Suggested Accessories for Mobile Devices
Smartphone tripod mount
About
The video capable smartphone you already have is a remarkable tool. It can be used as a document camera, a web camera, a video recording device for Panopto, and you can also use it to participate in online meetings in Zoom or Microsoft Teams. A stable mount like this (under $10) can go a long way to extend the usefulness of your phone.
How does it work?
You can set this mount directly on your desk, with small tripod.
Where to purchase?
Suggested Applications
Explain Everything
About
Explain Everything is a recordable whiteboard application. It can be used to record explanations, media-rich presentations, provide feedback, follow-ups, and meeting takeaways which can then be shared in video format. Recordings can be uploaded to Panopto and shared with any number of classes. It can be used with a tablet or via a browser, depending on purchased version.
How does it work?
You will need to install the app on your mobile device. For a PC, you can use the tool in your Internet browser.
Where to purchase?
Suggested Hardware
iPad
About
An iPad can be used to record videos and deliver presentations both in a live virtual environment and asynchronously. Instructors of chemistry, biology, math, etc. can use a tablet to demonstrate formulas and chemical structures. With the upcoming release of the BbAnnotate annotation tool in Blackboard, and iPad can be used to mark up and comment on student assignments much the same way you would on paper. It can also be used with a Bluetooth mouse and/or keyboard to extend the functionality of the tablet interface.
iPad models update often. It is recomended that you choose the model which best meets your needs.
Where to purchase?
Apple Pencil
About
With the addition of an Apple Pencil to an iPad, you can replicate the function of a writing stylus on paper. The pencil can be used as a mouse, drawing tool, or annotation tool.
How does it work?
Once you pair the Apple Pencil wirelessly to an iPad, it can be used to annotate on the iPad if the apps used accept annotations and Apple Pencil functionality. There are different versions of the pencil, be sure to purchase the one which works best with your iPad model.
Where to purchase?
Windows convertible laptop
About
For that last several years, Drake’s standard windows laptop has been a touch screen convertible model. With a convertible windows laptop and the interactive pen, you can use the annotation features available in Windows. You can also use a device like a Microsoft Surface.
Where to purchase?