Did you notice that more and more of your students are yawning during classes? There can only be one reason: they’re not interested in your lessons.
While it’s a hard pill to swallow, you have to understand that today’s students are tech-savvy. So, the old school way of teaching simply won’t work.
If you want to create a fun learning experience, it’s time to replace your chalk and blackboard with a digital board for teaching.
But, what is it exactly?
What is a Smart Board?
Also known as interactive flat panels, a smart board combines a traditional whiteboard with technology. It comes with a touch-sensitive screen and various digital tools for student engagement.
The role of interactive flat panels in the education field can’t be overlooked.
With a smart board, classmates can work on the same project together directly on the screen, enhancing student interaction.
For educators, features like drag-and-drop functionality, multimedia support, and cloud integration make teaching a lot easier.
7 Smart Board Features Teachers Should Know
We’ve mentioned several interactive flat panel features for teaching, but that’s just scratching the surface.
Let’s dive deeper into every single one of them.
1. Touchscreen
Write, draw, and highlight any element on the projected screen using your fingers or stylus pens.
This allows you to explain concepts smoothly, without worrying about breaking the chalk or erasing some content when there’s not enough space.
Plus, you can easily move text, images, and other elements around the screen to organise information, create concept maps, or play interactive games.
2. Split Screen and Handwriting Recognition
Recognising human touch isn’t the only thing a smart screen can do.
With split screen functionality, it’s also possible to divide the screen into sections to display different content simultaneously, like lecture notes alongside a video clip.
Some smart boards, like the ones offered by Trueview, can also convert handwritten text and shapes into digital elements.
All you have to do is write and draw anything on the smart board, and it will automatically turn your raw handwriting into perfectly formatted text or shapes.
3. Software Compatibility
Some digital boards come with a built-in operating system and software designed for teaching.
If you can’t find any, it’s also easy to download and install third-party apps, just like you would on a smartphone or a tablet.
Here are some of the most popular interactive panel apps for education purposes:
- FunBrain: A periodic table game is a great way to introduce students to Chemistry, and FunBrain does it better than any apps. Split your students into several teams, and let the competition begin.
- PrepMagic: This app enables you to simulate real-world objects or concepts for easier understanding. For example, manipulate virtual models of molecules in science class or build virtual circuits in physics class.
- Innerbody: Just like the name suggests, this app is all about exploring human anatomy in an exciting way. Simply load images of the skeletal, muscular, and other inner systems, and students can tap on which part of the body they want to learn more.
4. Content Integration
Most smart boards support WiFi, bluetooth, and screen mirroring, helping you share materials from the web, a laptop, and even your personal phone.
Even better, popular interactive flat panel brands like BenQ allow you to store your lesson materials in the cloud.
So, the next time you want to present, you can easily log in to your account and load the content instantly.
Once you’ve finished teaching, save your interactive lessons with annotations and drawings for future use or sharing with colleagues.
5. Multimedia Support
Humans are visual creatures. That’s why some students will understand faster if you present materials in a visually appealing manner rather than text.
Luckily, smart digital boards support any type of content format, including videos, animations, graphs, simulations, interactive games, and even virtual tours.
6. Collaborative Tools
Engaging students with technology is easier than ever with digital-enabled boards.
As we mentioned earlier, you can install any tools you need to enhance the learning experience, including:
- Instant polling and quizzes: Create interactive polls and quizzes to gauge student understanding and encourage participation.
- Real-time collaboration: Use collaborative software to allow students to work together on the board simultaneously, either in person or remotely.
- Screen sharing: Students can share their screens with the class to showcase their work or participate in presentations.
7. Cameras and Speakers
Flipped classrooms are becoming more common, and smart boards are just what you need to jump on the bandwagon.
Thanks to built-in cameras and speakers, you can host video conferences and connect with students wherever they are. You can also invite guest speakers or lectures from all over the world without issues.
Conclusion
Boosting student engagement with interactive panels is the way forward for teachers.
With features like a touchscreen, software compatibility, multimedia support, and collaborative tools, schools and universities alike can deliver a more enjoyable learning environment.
So, are you ready to take the first step towards a better education system?
If so, contact Saptshankari today via email or phone call. We’ll help you choose the right smart board based on your budget and needs.
