Part of my duties as a librarian in the Extension and Outreach Department at the public library where I am employed is being a computer trainer for several library branches. I regularly teach at three locations on the north, south, and west sides of Huntsville, Alabama. Two branches have only five computer terminals where classes can be taught, and those classes are often full with some students sitting in at nearby tables. At the branch on the north side of town, I have ten computers in their own lab. However, at this branch the classes are not filled to capacity, but a majority of the students are beginners.
The main challenge I face with teaching computer classes at branches is the inability to demonstrate software features and actions to the entire class at once. This is due to not having a large enough display or even a trainer computer available to show students how to certain tasks are completed. Often, I walk back and forth behind students, leaning over their shoulders to show them how a function occurs. The classes each last two and a half hours so it is quite a workout! The best solution to this dilemma is selecting a projector, projector screen, and computer that I can take to each class with me and setup at each location to allow for easier demonstration of the software I am teaching. All three items must be very portable since I also carry a briefcase filled with handouts to each class. An additional tool providing extra capabilities is a wireless presenter mouse.
Computer and Carrying Case
The main requirement for the trainer computer is portability, but also I wanted a computer that had the Windows XP operating system installed on it. The classes I teach on operating system are only on Windows XP, and the IT department at the library does not support the Vista operating system. However, since my classes focus on the Microsoft Office suite, the Internet, email, and the Windows XP operating system, the machine did not have to be very elaborate. An inexpensive option that fills all requirements is a netbook. These mini notebook computers are small and cost less than regular laptop computers. I selected the HP Mini Netbook with Intel Atom available on the Best Buy website. Notable features are a wireless ethernet card, three USB ports, and the Windows XP operating system.
Most netbooks come with a protective sleeve only so an additional case was purchased to carry it in. The Belkin Laptop Tote in Pitch Black/Fuchsia is also sold on the Best Buy site. The netbook screen is 10.1", and the tote fits laptops up to 10.2" screen size.
- HP Mini Netbook - Price: $329.99
- Belkin Laptop Tote - Price: $29.74 (Currently 20% off of the original price of $34.99)
- Shipping: $17.49
- Subtotal: $377.22
Projector and Carrying Case
A projector is connected to the netbook to display its monitor on a larger scale for the students. In selecting a projector, I chose one that was compact and lightweight but sturdy enough to withstand travel from one site to another. The NP100 DLP Portable Projector manufactured by NEC is sold on the PC Connection website. Weighing in at only 5.3 pounds and described as easy to setup, the NEC NP100 is a suitable choice. PC World reviews the projector as very good and finds it to be one of the most inexpensive portable models available.
Since the project is not sold with its own case, I purchased a padded case specifically designed for NP100 and NP200 projector models. This is to protect it as well as carry accessories like remote and cords. The case is also sold on the PC Connection site.
- NEC NP100 Portable Projector - Price: $419.95
- Projector Case - Price: $49.95
- Shipping: Free
- Subtotal: $469.90
Projector Screen and Carrying Case
Not all of the locations that I visit have a white wall to project the image onto so I purchased a projector screen. The 50" by 50"Matte White Tripod T Portable Screen by Vutec is sold on the Projector Screens Direct website. The screen has rugged steel case along with mildew resistant and flame retardant fabric.
To help transport the screen, I purchased a Vutec Nylon Carrying Bag from Projector Screens Direct designed for 50-inch screens. The handle on the case will allow me to carry it easily over one shoulder.
- Tripod T Portable Screen - Price: $82.00
- 50" Nylon Case - Price: $31.00
- Shipping: Free
- Subtotal: $113.00
Presenter Mouse
So that I do not have to walk back and forth to the computer to use the mouse, I chose an external presenter mouse that allows me to move the mouse remotely from across the room. The Kensington SlimBlade Presenter Mouse, Wireless Mouse, and Presenter in One (Deep Blue) is sold on the Amazon.com website. The mouse has a slim design for storage in a pocket or slot of a laptop bag and works within a 30-feet range.
- IOGEAR Phaser 3-in-1 Presenter/Mouse/Laser Pointer - Price: $36.87
- Shipping: Free
- Subtotal: $36.87
Summary
The netbook, projector, projector screen, and external mouse are the tools I can use to enhance the learning experience for my computer students. The associated carrying cases will ensure these tools are protected and last for a number of classes.
- Netbook & Case Total: $377.22
- Projector & Case Total: $469.90
- Screen & Case Total: $113.00
- Mouse Total: $36.87
- Grand Total: $996.99
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