A question that is always at the forefront of the minds of educators and administrators alike is: What technology has the best ROI (Return on Investment): A projector or a flat screen monitor?
A common misconception is that flat screen monitors are easier to use and therefore have a better ROI than a projector. It has been shown that even at the largest sizes currently available many students are unable to read and view information effectively from Flat Screen monitors unless they are right in front of them (which in turn also obstructs the view(s) of other students etc.).
Did you ever want to change the size of your classroom flat screen monitor? Well you can’t.
Let’s look at projectors. When paired with a mobile solution, such as the AVRover, but even when simply placed on a desk or similar application, they afford MUCH more flexibility.
Studies show that there are very specific guidelines for the size of an image for inspection viewing, detailed viewing or casual viewing. Since all the students can’t sit in the same place in the classroom, there is no way to solve this problem without being able to change the size of the image.
Not only can you adjust the image size and height with a projector, but they are substantially brighter and thus easier to view than a flat screen monitor of a fixed size.
But Projectors are expensive, take up too much room in the classroom and are complicated to use, right? Not true.
There have been many advances in the design, operation and integration of projectors in recent years, from space saving short throw projector models to brighter (higher lumens) projectors at more affordable prices to refined and extremely reliable Stereo 3D option and as a bonus, they are as easy to use if not easier than a monitor. Most come with clearly labeled remotes and have convenient controls directly on the projector as well.
One of the reasons projectors may have gotten a bad rap in recent years is due to the mistaken belief that to use them properly they MUST be installed in the ceiling of a classroom. This couldn’t be further from the truth and in fact limits the functionality and flexibility they inherently provide.
We are so accustomed to televisions and monitors in fixed positions that it can be intimidating to cut the cord and go mobile with our classroom technology.
Maybe you remember the rickety old TV carts full of dangling wires that no one could use at school when you were a student. Well, have no fear! We’re happy to inform you that things have totally changed.
Going mobile with your educational technology is not only liberating, cost-effective, and most importantly BETTER for student viewing and understanding of subject material, but it easier to use than custom installed solutions.