Part 2 of an interview with an avid Smartboard user
Focus on benefets and hindrances of the Smartboard in class

INTERVIEW

Question What do you think makes this a good use of technology?

BENEFITS

o Pdf files available from most publishers of textbooks
o Photocopier creates pdf files of any document as it copies, and automatically sends to teacher for use
o Can save problems with work written out beside it, and can be sent to a student easily without ever moving from the Smartboard.
 e.g. 2 students are going to India for a month. “Mr. Newton” can send all files with notes, solved problems etc… to them
o Content can be blotted out and revealed, or coloured over with white pen and then revealed
o Recording can be made of solving problems step by step, then replayed and analysed, or saved.
o Many educational games at the click of a mouse or touch of a finger. “Math Fighter” was demonstrated. Head to Head game between students.
o Able to use colours and tools (compass, protractor, ruler, calculator, etc…) directly related to problems without leaving Smartboard
o Direct links to internet (YouTube etc.) for supplemental instruction

HINDRANCES

o Bumped screen or projector needs to be realigned
o Cords everywhere unless installed on wall/ceiling
o Needs electricity – power outage, spike etc…
o Some students have problems reading a screen for longer periods of time
o Angles of vision not as good as blackboard
o Shadows from teacher/students
o Awkward writing when reaching lower

The Smartboard is SO much more than just Blackboard v.2.0. With web content streaming, saving accessing and modifying pdf files, games, interactivity and so much more it is a huge step from where we were. At the VERY least, my reduced prep time means I spend more time addressing their needs. I believe the kids are better off.