Traditional whiteboards can limit learning for some students. Create a more inclusive learning environment with interactive whiteboards.
Delco Solutions helps schools in the Philadelphia area leverage the latest classroom AV systems. In this blog, our experts share how interactive whiteboards empower teachers to engage their students.
The Importance of Interactive Classroom Technology
Interactive classroom technology unleashes students’ full learning potential. With an interactive whiteboard, you can:
- Encourage multi-sensory engagement from students
- Cut down on equipment costs with multiple features in one product
- Easily display information & online resources
- Promote information retention
- Enable hybrid learning
What is an Interactive Whiteboard?
Often referred to as a “smart” board, an interactive whiteboard is a display screen capable of visual response. It combines a whiteboard and a projector to create a dynamic interface. Users can touch the board with a special pen to interact with the content.
Creative Ideas for Interactive Whiteboards in Classrooms
How can teachers use interactive whiteboards to their full potential? The learning possibilities are limitless! Take a few of our creative ideas for interactive classroom activities:
1. Virtually Tour a Landmark, Museum, or Installation
The interactive panel’s large, high-resolution display screen is excellent for augmented reality (AR) experiences. Teachers can use an interactive whiteboard to tour a famous location that’s out of reach.
Interactive capabilities allow the student to “click” to engage. For example, users can tap on a museum art piece to zoom in or get more information. Check out Travel & Leisure’s list of exciting virtual visits available at museums worldwide for inspiration.
2. Connect with a Student Pen Pal in Another Location
Modern technology allows students to reach other students across the globe. Students of any age can interact on an interactive whiteboard.
A few decades ago, face-to-face conversations with people thousands of miles away were only possible in-person. Interactive panels provide easy access to other cultures and fresh perspectives.
For example, Empatico offers a range of activities to help students build empathy, including virtual exchanges with international classrooms.
3. Play Educational Fill-in-the-Blank
Provide each student with a word bank. Then, project an incomplete paragraph on the interactive whiteboard. Have students take turns making educated guesses for each sentence break. Interactive panels allow users to drag and drop directly from the word bank or handwrite responses.
4. Revise and Annotate an Article as a Group
Interactive whiteboards create opportunities for teamwork. For example, teachers can project a draft onto the board and edit the content as a class. This fosters collaboration and problem-solving.
5. Play a Virtual Board Game or Host a Competition
Take your interactive classroom activities beyond Jeopardy-type games and basic trivia. Modern interactive whiteboard games can do more.
Many educational games exist for interactive whiteboards, from simple checkers to Pictionary and charades. Plus, instructors eliminate the clutter of physical boardgames with virtual technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can teachers assess student when using interactive whiteboards?
Teachers can assess student learning and engagement with interactive whiteboard software. Several tools track real-time participation and understanding. For example, many interactive whiteboard platforms offer quiz and survey features. Teachers can use these to gauge student comprehension instantly. Plus, teachers can design interactive activities to require individual student input, ensuring active participation from each class member.
How can educators learn to effectively use interactive whiteboards?
Many resources are available to help teachers learn how to use interactive whiteboards. Manufacturers often provide online tutorials, webinars, and detailed guides about their systems features. Plus, courses that enhance teachers’ digital skills include using interactive whiteboards in the classroom.
Delco Solutions can also provide training tailored to your setup and use cases after installation.
Can interactive whiteboards integrate with other classroom technology?
Interactive whiteboards can easily integrate with other classroom technology. For example, they can connect to cloud-based educational resources. This allows teachers to access rich multimedia content. Plus, many interactive whiteboards are compatible with student devices, such as tablets and laptops. This creates an easy blend of individual and group activities. This connectivity also supports educational software.
AV Classroom Technology in the Philadelphia Area
With the ability to integrate educational equipment, interactive boards (such as Promethean models) provide endless possibilities. Our interactive whiteboard ideas can help your lessons be more engaging and fun.
Considering an interactive whiteboard for your classroom? Call the leading audio visual company in Philadelphia to design a system. To learn more about interactive classroom technology or get a new setup, contact the AV experts at Delco Solutions.
