Low-tech whiteboard solution via Zoom if you don’t have a stylus-based computer
Dr. Rungun Nathan from Penn State Berks created a video illustrating a solution for faculty who do not have a “stylus” based computer to enjoy the pleasure of sharing worked equations, or other lessons which involve use of a whiteboard while they teach online in the next few weeks.
If faculty are not going to record their synchronous Zoom session, the notes also provide a record of equations or notes shared. Here are the steps.
- Plan ahead. Write out OR print equation sheets or notes in advance.
- If you hand-write your notes, you can scan them with an iPhone or iPad or with other free scanning apps. Or just take a photo with your mobile device, being careful to hold the device parallel to the paper.
- Share your equation sheets with students by adding them to a Canvas module. (How to add files to a Canvas module.) Remember to leave blanks as required.
- Start your Zoom meeting.
- Select the microphone and speakers you’ll use and test. (How to configure and test audio)
- On the bottom left side of the Zoom menu, you’ll see the options for Video selection. Make sure your webcam is selected.
- Choose Video Settings from the expandable menu adjacent to Video on the menu.
- In video settings, be sure “Mirror my video” is deselected. This is important so that your equations are not reversed in the Zoom video.
- Use a binder or clipboard, a Sharpie or marker that creates a strong, legible mark and you are ready to go.
- Adjust your positioning and lighting if necessary to be sure your work is easily read. At this point it will more important for students to see the equations than to see you. Be careful to hold the work as steady as possible.
- Voila – you have a board that you can write on with no investment in any new technology!!