Recommended Solutions for Annotations

In some courses in particular, it may be easier for instructors to be able to narrate while writing content. In a traditional classroom, this may involve using a chalkboard, whiteboard, or even a document camera. In an online classroom, instructors will need to identify both hardware and software solutions to achieve a similar experience.

For institutional purchases, please use the Paw Procurement System.

Tablet Computers

Tablet computers provide both the hardware and software faculty need to easily begin creating content with annotations. Additionally, tablet computers are highly recommended as they have many other features beyond annotations. Access the web, email, word processing applications, and more to support you and your pedagogy.

Instructors can use any annotation or sketchbook application they find that is compatible with their device. Please note: At this time, DoIT only supports Microsoft OneNote as it is included in our Office 365 license.

Using any annotating application, record your screen using iOS’s native screen recorder. Upload your video to Panopto for your course to view. Alternatively, use the Webex mobile app, then screen share or use the built-in white board while on a Webex meeting for live annotations.

Apple Pencil 1st generation supports charging via the Lightning port on your iPad.

These iPad models range from $410-$750. Price includes adding the recommended Apple Care+ protection plan. Apple Pencil 1st Generation is $89.

Using any annotating application, record your screen using iOS’s native screen recorder. Upload your video to Panopto for your course to view. Alternatively, use the Webex mobile app, then screen share or use the built-in white board while on a Webex meeting for live annotations.

Apple Pencil 2nd generation supports charging wirelessly on the side of the iPad. Easily switch between different modes of your pencil by double tapping.

These iPad models range from $950-$1100. Price includes adding the recommended Apple Care+ protection plan. Apple Pencil 2nd Generation is $119.

Using any annotating application, record your screen using the Panopto desktop application for your course to view. Alternatively, use the Webex app, then screen share or use the built-in whiteboard while on a Webex meeting for live annotations.

Surface Pen easily pairs with your Microsoft Surface for precise annotations.

There are several models of Microsoft Surface, some starting at $550. The Surface Pen is $82.

Document and Flexible Cameras

For some instructors, a less technical option may be preferred over tablet computers. At-home document cameras provide a great solution for typical “chalk-and-talk” lecture recordings. Connect USB cameras to Blackboard Collaborate, Webex, or Panopto to capture written material from notebook paper or a whiteboard.

Mac users: USB Document Cameras typically output via USB-A. If your Mac only has USB-C ports on your machine, make sure that you have a proper adapter.

Blackboard Collaborate Pro Tip: External USB Document Cameras can be selected as the primary video source. However, if another person on the Collaborate session speaks, their video will become the primary content displayed, and minimize the Document Camera’s output. Instead, display the Document Camera through an application, and share the application’s window to ensure the Document Camera’s output will remain the primary display.

Native IPEVO software included. Easily rotate the camera downward to face a piece of paper or angle to capture a whiteboard screen.

Some models begin at $99.

Native INSWAN software included. Camera includes external microphone and light source.

Some models begin at $99.

Other Tablet Devices

Create Kahn Academy-style videos using the Wacom Tablet. Connect to your laptop or desktop and use the Wacom software to begin annotating.

Some models begin at $250.