What I can't teach without: Visualisers

by A. Collins,
Teacher of Mathematics

Visualisers are attached to most of the school’s classrooms computers and are really easy to use. Essentially, a visualiser is just a small camera with a stand. It displays images in real time on the computer, which means the images can be displayed on the classroom board.

They are really useful for topics which have a practical element, such as when students have to use geometry equipment like compasses and protractors (or even rulers). 

By modelling the tasks ourselves using the visualiser, students can see exactly how to use this equipment while having a go themselves. We can highlight common error students make in handling the equipment and we can show them what the finished piece of work should look like.

Another use is for whole-class marking of solutions which involve diagrams or elements which are more difficult to reproduce on a computer, such as mathematical constructions which have to be carried out using only compasses and rulers. Graphs and charts are also difficult to produce on a computer in a way which students will recognise as similar to what they are able to produce by hand. By showing students a page of answers which looks exactly like the answers they should have in front of them, they will find it a lot easier to check that they have completed the task correctly.

As well as our work, visualisers are really useful for showing students each other’s work. For example, where several students have taken a different approach, the whole class can see this variety for themselves and try to emulate the approach they understand the best or simply the one they prefer. Students also tend to really like having their work identified as a model for others to follow so if there is a standard of work you are keen to have other students match, showing them exactly what they should aim for can really help them achieve it.