The easiest DIY distance learning document camera

Need a document camera for distance learning but don't have one? Or maybe you have one but you need another one? I want to show you how you can set one up that's perfect for a teacher's budget!

Document Camera Supplies

You are going to need:

• ipad
• Osmo app
• Osmo reflector
• Sturdy cup or Osmo base (also comes with the reflector)
• computer

How can I use this distance learning doc cam?

It's perfect for Zoom or Google Meet calls with your students. Or, you can use it prerecord lessons, use it during live lessons, and even use it in the classroom. If you're one of the teachers who has the crazy order to teach face-to-face plus stream your lessons to students online, you can use this as a second doc cam to keep at your small group table (if you're allowed to do small groups) and run your small groups that way so that you aren't having to bring over your document camera.

Set up your very own document camera

1. Download the Osmo app to your iPad. It does not work on a phone.
2. Put the reflector on our ipad
3. Plug your iPad into your computer or if you're a Mac user, use airplay to mirror your iPad to your computer screen
4. Set your iPad against a cup or buy the Osmo base. I tried it both ways and the only real difference I found was the base made it easy to always have a spot to set up and it has an opening on the bottom for the chord in case your iPad is charging. But–the base isn't necessary

Use your document camera with Zoom

If you're using Zoom (or Google Meet) for class meetings or office hours, you are going to want to model student assignments or share text or books with your kids.

A document camera will make this a lot easier and will also replicate a lot of how you're use to teaching!

1. Open your Zoom Meeting
2. Share you Screen
3. Choose “iPad via airplay” or “iPad with cable”
4. Follow the steps on your iPad to connect

Use your document camera with Google Meet

Since I only use Zoom I found some help for you Google Meet teachers out there! Here's a tutorial from Osmo on how you can use your new document camera with Google Meet.

Use your document camera when recording lessons

If you are prerecording lessons for your students, you can easily use the doc cam, connect it to your computer, and share your screen as you record your screen. This is a great way for your students to see you solving problems, working out equations, or applying those new phonics skills in your writing!

For more distance learning tips, check these out:

• 36: How to Get Your Life Back with Sabrena Brooks
• 35. The Sunday Blues
• 34. Navigating Student Loan Debt with Meagan Landress McGuire
• 33. Toxic Teacher Environments
• 32. Dealing with Challenging Team Members at School