A visualiser, or document camera, is an amazing tool for teachers and can unlock endless possibilities for teaching. Replacing the libraries of best practices and models with the visualiser. Reaching the model work naturally by annotating a worksheet with answers found in cooperation with students.

It may be the case that your school or Multi-Academy Trust has had visualisers for a while now and never saw the use. Maybe they're unplugged and forgotten. Becoming a place to put paper after trying it out and thinking it just wasn’t useful for them.

The visualiser really is for everyone. The first thing you should check before using the visualiser, however, is the space its being used in. Is it in the corner of the desk with all the wires and paper and pens? Or is it in a clearer area where it can be easily used to study objects or annotate the sheet being discussed. If you can’t easily interact with the thing that’s being studied, then it’ll be just as hard for your class to feel engaged.

Saving your time for better teaching

A visualiser can replace tonnes of time preparing, passing around, marking, and checking by presenting the focus of your lesson directly at the front of the class and then manipulating it in the same way you’d expect the class to.

Not only does this mean savings on 20+ printouts every lesson, but your presentation can be a lot more involved and engaging. As opposed to a static element in PowerPoint or an explanation that students with difficulties paying attention may not be able to follow, you now have a way to keep pace with the class.

The visualiser can also be used outside the classroom. Most models can record, capture, and freeze the image shown along with a microphone for voice overs. This means you can create resources for homework, distance learning, or for when you’re unavailable and the TA needs a helping hand.

Depending on the time you’re able to give. There’s really no roof when it comes to presenting with a visualiser and creating resources that can be used endlessly.

What you use a visualiser for is ultimately up to the person using it. One of the most effective uses has to be modelling. Working with your class towards an answer that everyone feels they made together. (Even if it was mostly guided by yourself). This not only lets you check the understanding of the class for a subject, but it also lets students voice out their thoughts and share instead of working off just their own ideas.

Is your visualiser one of the forgotten ones? Or maybe you don't have one at all. We're happy to help you get to grips with and maximise the use of the visualiser with our expert CPD trainers. They understand which visualiser can best suit your needs and how to use it effectively in the classroom. Contact us if you're interested in learning more.