Software that Projects Well on a Screen in a Large Group Setting

A brief article by Neil MacQueen, Sunday Software, www.sundaysoftware.com

I'm frequently asked which of our software programs "projects well to a large group." This involves plugging a computer into a "data projector" and viewing the software on a large projection screen, rather than a computer monitor.

It doesn't make sense to project some software. For example, it would be pointless to project a scripture memory game such as Cal & Marty's Scripture Memory Game, or a writing and drawing program such as Kid Pix 3, or a flying game such as Galilee Flyer. They require too much input and are designed for use by one, two or three kids MAX. But other programs, such as Pathways Through Jerusalem, would do quite well projected on a screen in front of a large group.

Recommended Software for Projection to a Large Group:
(These programs were designed for use with on, two or three persons at an individual computer but could easily be projected to a larger audience)

• Pathways Through Jerusalem --especially good for adults.
• HolyLand 3D Bible Atlas... an awesome program to kick off your Bible study. Fly-in to the location of the story!
• Actual Reality --for teens... particularly oriented toward short presentations that evoke discussion.
• Ten Commandments --the large photobubbles shot on location on Mt. Sinai are dramatic. Lots of discussion starting presentations and large graphics/text.
• Life of Christ -- 40 short slideshow-like narrated presentations.
• Abraham & Sarah -- several "music videos" to be discussed, plus many discussion starting items.
• Walking in Their Sandals Bible Atlas -- lots of maps, photos, and videos.
• Fall of Jericho Quiz Program --a quiz making and team play quiz program.
• Let's Talk CD.... make a computer character talk out-loud to your audience.
• Elijah & Jonah CD ...large graphics and pop up questions can be read by the entire group.
   

If you're reading this offline, all these programs are described at www.sundaysoftware.com

What makes a program good for projection:

• Large graphics. Not all programs have large graphics.
• Large text. Many programs have text that is unreadable when projected, or unreadable from a distance.
• Programs that have "discussion starter" material, as opposed to "interactive" material which needs manipulated by the learner.
• Programs that have short presentations. Kids tend to lose interest more quickly when seated in large groups.

What makes a program not well-suited for projection:

Programs that are really designed for student exploration and manipulation. Typically these are programs that use the keyboard a lot, call for individual reflection, or require the student to "fly" or navigate through a game-like setting to learn.

Allowing students to use the software on a computer is better than projecting software to a large group:

When students have direct contact with the computer and program -their are a better learner. Their brain is engaged at a higher different level than when simply sitting back and watching. Interacting with a computer-based program helps the learner more feel engaged, more attentive, and more in control of their learning experience. Years of scientific research and classroom experience have demonstrated that the learner's BRAIN loves this kind of learning. Content is better remembered and students experience a higher satisfaction in learning. Computer-based learning is more individualized. Students who do not do well in a large group setting have a better experience when learning at a computer with 1 or 2 other students. Teachers are better able to engage and help individual learners. In a large group teachers are distracted by managing the group and by having to control the software and computer. When the teacher projects the software, the teacher tends to move into a lecture mode. With computer-based learning, students can move at THEIR pace, not the group's or teacher's pace.

There is a time and place for every type of learning. But projecting software should not be seen as a substitute for more interactive learning with software. For some it seems like a "cost-saving" method. And it is, IF you only count money, and not the learning potential.

Tips on teaching with projected software:

• Have students take turns using the mouse.
• Where appropriate, give the group options about what to click next.
• Invite certain students to be your projection assistant.
• Do not allow students to sit close in front of the screen or projector. They'll stick their hands into the light.
• Invite students to explore the software AFTER the lesson.
• Use a light pen to point out things on the screen. This will save you from having to walk up to the screen. Students can also use the light pen to point out answers to your questions.
• Use a good sound system. Plug in a pair of GOOD computer speakers, rather than relying on the projector's tiny speaker.
• Use a bright projector. 700 lumens is the minimum I would choose for a dark room and 30 people. For larger groups or brighter rooms, you will need a better projector.