Tableau Économique: Teaching Economics with a Tablet Computer

The typical method of instruction in economics is chalk and talk. Economics courses often require writing equations and drawing graphs and charts, which are all best done in freehand. Unlike static PowerPoint presentations, tablet computers create dynamic nonlinear presentations. Wireless technology allows professors to write on their tablets and project their notes to students while walking around their classrooms. Professors can save their handwritten notes with narration and distribute them electronically. This short article introduces economics professors to some ways in which they can use tablets to enhance their teaching.