Page 313 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

lucas chap 08 11/20/02 12:51 PM Page 302
302 The Creative Training Idea Book
example, construction or cardboard backing from a writing
Paper covering pad. This prevents projected white light which can distract
from your comments; however, you still contend with the
noise of the motor. On older projector models you also
have to deal with air from the cooling fan, which can blow
paper items off your instructor’s table and can overheat,
causing the paper to become hot and potentially ignite. Some
people prefer this method; however, remember what you read
in earlier chapters regarding how light and noise can distract
learners.
Another alternative to turning the projector off is to tape
a small piece of paper to the top of the lens cover where the
mirror is located (Figure 8-11). When you are projecting an
image, flip this paper up and out of the way. When you do
not want participants to look at the screen, flip the paper
down. If you decide to use this technique, be aware that
several problems exist with it. The first is that paper (espe-
cially dark) left over the magnifying lens for a long time will
FIGURE 8-11. Blocking Your Projected Image ignite. (Remember what happened to leaves when, as a child,
you held a magnifying glass over them and allowed the sun
to shine through? The same is true of concentrated light from the projector through the
lens onto the paper cover.) A second problem is that while the screen light and image
are blocked, the blinding light from the bulb is reflecting up into your eyes and is also
visible to learners. Finally, the noise of the motor can be distracting.
Some presenters like to add another dimension to their presentation by setting up
two overhead projectors or using a combination of overhead projector and slide pro-
jector or video projector. This is sometimes done when there are co-presenters during
a session. When using two pieces of equipment, screens are typically placed to the right
and left of the presenter in opposite corners of the room. The key to success when using
multiple training aids is PRACTICE. Make notes in your lesson plan or session guide
related to which piece of equipment you should be using and refer to the notes as you
proceed so that you do not get confused.

Toys and Accessories for Your Overhead Projector
There are a variety of materials and training aids that you can adapt to use with your
overhead projector. Each can add a different element of creativity and pizzazz. Here are
some that I have found over the years.

Pointers
If you need a pointer for use on your projector’s glass surface to draw attention to a spe-
cific line of text or word as you talk about it, ensure that it will not roll off. Rather than
using round pencils, try a more creative approach. Purchase a small pointer in the shape