1. Input Devices
1.1. Definition: An input device includes any computer peripheral that one might use to enter data into the computer
1.2. Modern-day Example: • Touch screens which receive input by being touched at relevant points on the monitor screen
1.2.1. Use of a touch screen as an input device in the classroom brings both benefits and challenges to educators and students
1.2.1.1. Benefits to using touch screens in the classroom include: • Quick and easy to use • Makes content accessible to students who are preliterate, cannot type, or have difficulty controlling a standard mouse due to physical impairment
1.2.1.2. Challenges to using touch screens in the classroom include: • Not suitable for inputting large amounts of data • Not suitable when many choices need to be made from complex sets of options
2. Output Devices
2.1. Definition: An output device includes the pieces of hardware that move information (data that have been processed) out of the computer
2.2. Modern-day Example: • Data or LCD projectors which are able to project both images from a computer and video from a video source in a display that is large enough and bright enough to be seen across a classroom
2.2.1. Use of a data or LCD projector as an output device brings both benefits and challenges to educators andn students
2.2.1.1. Benefits to using data or LCD projectors in the classroom include: • Less cumbersome and costly than a large TV/CRT monitor for displaying information/visuals • Offer an array of features such as built-in speakers, multiple computer input capabilities, software storage capabilities, and remote controls
2.2.1.2. Challenges to using data or LCD projector in the classroom include: • Requires projection screen for optimal viewing experience as walls often do not offer enough brightness and whiteboards offer too much • As the resolution and brightness of data projectors increase, there is a corresponding increase in price