Should Cameras be Allowed in the Classroom?

A look at the pros and cons of allowing cameras in the classroom.

They say the camera adds 10 pounds.

Now, that’s a problem.

They also say the camera never lies.

Would this then be a problem in the classroom?

Most teachers may oppose cameras because they fear it may be weaponized against them.

But what benefits, if any, could cameras bring to the classroom?

I’m a veteran teacher of 20 years and I’m ready to answer the question around cameras in the classroom.

I’ve taught in a school where cameras were placed and were made known to us that the cameras were there for teacher training purposes.

So, I do have some experience on the matter.

We know that cameras capture everything, and they never lie, but for everyone involved; teachers, students, parents, and administrations what are the pros and cons in choosing to use cameras in the classrooms.

The Pros of Cameras in the Classroom

One pro, I believe is that it can help make for a safer classroom enviornment.

Now like I said, I have experienced teaching in a classroom that had cameras in it, and honestly as a teacher you relish the cameras when everything is going smoothly in your classroom.

I do believe that cameras in the classroom, when used correctly can benefit both students and teachers to make for better learning and teaching experiences.

Cameras may encourage students to behave and participate better knowing that they are being watched.

Teachable moments that inspired students may be captured on camera and can last a lifetime.

The Cons of Cameras in the Classroom

Straight up, one major con is that it creates the scenerio where everyone will be judged.

When a teacher is conducting a class, and a student captured on camera is openly disobeying the rules and causing problems, that may be the evidence teachers need for showing all other groups; parents, administrators and the students what disrespect they have to deal with in the classroom.

Yes in the short term, this benefits the teacher in being believed but it really doesn’t benefit anyone in the long run.

Administrations may be judged for not supporting teachers, parents and students may be judged for disrespectful behavior and lack of parenting.

And let’s remember: judging can lead to weaponizing.

Anyone who looks at the camera will have 20/20 vision, will automatically judge the person, in this case the teacher, for not doing what they (the observers) thought should have been done.

Final Thoughts…

Good teachers don’t need to be constantly under a microscope and have a camera weaponized against them for being human or making mistakes.

Bad teachers have more to worry about then cameras in the classroom.

A camera won’t turn a bad teacher into a good teacher, as that is not what it was intented to do.

I don’t believe cameras in the classroom will add to student learning, or improve student behavior on its own.

I do believe that if cameras were present it may capture good moments in a properly run classroom that may have been missed.

Good teachers are not afraid of cameras in the classroom as they know the only person who should be judging their actions is themselves.

If you enjoyed this article, please read my article around technology in the classroom.