Planning on using technology in your future classroom? Maybe some of these items could make it onto your wish list. MENC member David WK Johnson shares his favorite tech toys as well as some useful ways to use technology in the classroom. 

Laptop Computer.

• Compose, edit concert videos, create DVDs and CDs, record, listen, and stay organized.
• Upload CDs to your hard drive or download music from the Internet instead of fumbling around for CDs.
• Give students the laptop to do their theory or ear training homework in a practice room.

Recording Software.

• Johnson suggests GarageBand, Smart Music, or Audacity (free) by simply connecting the USB microphone adapter to your computer.
• Other MENC members have suggested Zoom H2, Superscope, Marantz CD recorder, Roland Edirol, and a Belkin Tune Talk Stero, which attaches right to an MP3 player. Read what members are saying about these products on the Future Teachers forum.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or DLP (Digital Light Processing) Portable Projector.

• Hook up your laptop to the projector … you can find a good projector almost anywhere for about $500-$600. If you purchase a flat-screen TV, you’ll end up paying hundreds more than a portable projector, which will give you a lot more screen size for your money.

Stereo Receiver. 

• Johnson is partial to Onkyo because it provides a solid balance between price, performance, and power. He also says that it is the easiest receiver brand to use if you’re new to A/V (audio visual) and technology gear.

Speakers.

• Johnson's personal preference is the brand Paradigm. He says, “These are excellent for classical and jazz music and blow away anything you can find at your local big-box audio store.”

Camcorder and Digital Camera. 

• Archive concerts and take pictures of your students for PR photos, Web sites, and newsletters.

Accessories.

• Budget extra for audio and video cables, wall-mounts, cable hiders, and an enclosed cabinet to lock up your equipment.
   

Share what’s on your technology wish list by posting on the forums or responding to Shauna Leavitt.

David WK Johnson is the director of instrumental music in the School District of Williams Bay, Wisconsin, where he conducts a 5th grade band, a 6th grade band, junior high band, senior high band, jazz ensemble, and the pep band.

--Shauna Leavitt, December 17, 2008, © MENC: The National Association for Music Education