AlgebraHut.com Blog

I am pretty excited with my latest idea. As you may already know, I have an Interwrite Board in my classroom (1 full school year now). The Interwrite Board works with software on a computer to essentially allow you to write with a special pen to the computer.

The light bulb came on a little late for me, but if it writes it to the computer screen, then you can use it in a screencast. I tested out this idea for the 2nd time and it worked better than expected. I am really pleased with the simplicity and quality of it.

I used Screenr, which is free and requires NO download. Super convenient. Plus my computer in the classroom is frozen/locked down and it takes an executive command and a little luck for it be unfrozen to install new software.Screenr is a web app for recording a screen cast. It is tied closely with twitter, to the point in fact that you have to log in with Twitter to use Screenr and it prompts you to tweet a message when you complete a screencast.

I used a borrowed set of headphones with an extension cord so I could reach the Interwrite Board. I am considering getting a wireless headset, but I’m not sure of the sound quality.

If you don’t have money to spend on an Interwrite Board, you could opt for the Interwrite Pad, which I believe is in the neighborhood of $300. It takes some practice to get used to writing on the pad, but the functionality is all the same.

Anyway, here is the result. Let me know what you think.

Some more info on Screenr. There is a 5 minute limit. There are some math examples where I’m sure I could use more time. I haven’t tried Jing or screencast.com yet. There is a slight delay with using Screenr in the mouse movement. It isn’t much, but it is noticeable when you are quickly writing.

Also, with Screenr, you can directly upload your screencast to youtube, which I think is a really nice option.

Thanks for reading. Let me know what you think.

~Dylan Faullin