Using a Tablet and Video Conferencing Software to Enhance Inclusion and Engagement in Large, In-Person Classes-Using a Tablet and Video Conferencing Software to Enhance Inclusion and Engagement in Large, In-Person Classes

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Matthew Hinton an accounting instructor at Toronto Metropolitan University and the University of Toronto, presents a “technology-enhanced inclusive classroom” approach designed to improve engagement and accessibility, especially in large intro accounting courses. His core method is using a tablet (e.g., iPad + stylus) to present PowerPoint/Google Slides while writing directly on the slides—circling, highlighting, solving problems, and zooming in/out for visibility. This improves readability for students in big rooms, supports students with visual impairments, and creates clearer recordings than traditional board work or document cameras.

The setup uses video conferencing software (typically Zoom or Teams) to connect the tablet (as the presenting/recording device) to the classroom podium computer (as a muted “viewer” projecting to the room). The tablet’s mic stays on (camera off), while the podium computer’s mic/audio are muted to prevent feedback. Optional features include live captions/subtitles, transcripts, and cloud recording. Matthew often layers in interactive tools like Kahoot or Mentimeter to boost participation.

Best practices include leaving blank slides for whiteboard-style work, walking around the room while still controlling slides, using the podium PC for apps like Excel (enabling participant screen sharing if recording), and securing the meeting (locking it, waiting room, do-not-disturb mode). He recommends adopting the system gradually (start with recording, then captions, then writing, then apps) and planning for technical issues (backup slides, manage audio feedback, battery/charging). He closes by encouraging follow-up questions and notes the method has received strong student/faculty feedback and contributed to a teaching award.

Keywords

technology-enhanced inclusive classroom

tablet-based lecturing

iPad and stylus annotation

annotating PowerPoint slides

Zoom classroom setup

Microsoft Teams lecture recording

live captions and transcripts

accessibility in large lectures

interactive polling tools (Kahoot, Mentimeter)

accounting education pedagogy