Every applied technology classroom needs a computer. While desktop computers normally exist in this type of classroom for students to use, the classrooms often come equipped with "laptop links." Laptop links are outlets that allow each student to bring a laptop and plug in their power source to avoid their laptop being drained of energy. Even though students will have access to desktop computers, it is becoming increasingly typical for students to bring their own laptops to the classroom. The instructor may use a computer for PowerPoint presentations, showing certain skills that require a computer and using examples from the Internet during lessons. Students use computers to take notes, practice skill sets and do research on the Internet.
DVD players allow instructors in applied technology rooms to show movies, review lessons and show their own presentations. Students use computers, camcorders and other types of media to make movies or presentations of work they have done. DVD players can show DV-Rs of projects that students have made at home or in class. The use of this type of equipment gives instructors the ability to grade student's projects and papers quickly.
Both students and instructors can utilize data projectors during lessons and skill building sessions. A data projector displays PC and video outputs and can project lessons from the instructor's computer onto large screens, for all the students in the classroom to view. Projectors have replaced chalkboards and dry erase boards as a way to present information to students. Since students can see what is on the instructor's computer, an instructor can prepare all materials beforehand, rather than do it in class.
Interactive electronic whiteboards are perhaps better known by their brand names such as SMART Board and Promethean ActivBoard. Using this tool, teachers can present assignments, surf the web, edit videos and use their fingers or a wireless pen to make notations in front of the class. Teachers also can record their instruction and post the material for review by students at a later time. Although interactive whiteboards may appear difficult to use at first, educators find them user friendly and easy to learn. Teachers often turn the wireless pen over to students so that they too can work at the board.
Wireless Internet is needed in applied technology classrooms so instructors and students can obtain information located on the World Wide Web at all times. Students can research projects, verify information from the instructor and check the sources of any information presented in class. Instructors can show students how to conduct Internet research by showing which websites, online academic journals and libraries are useful. Students learn how to use the Internet in a critical, academic fashion rather than just for entertainment.