Interactive whiteboards: A Comparison + Some Alternatives

Guest Post By Matt Shufro

Editor's Note: Too many schools are not smart when it comes to interactive whiteboards and other projection devices. This is a smart and insightful look into what projection device might make the most sense classrooms.

Over the last ten years, smart boards have become mainstays in K-12 classrooms.   Many educators believe this interactive whiteboard technology enhances classroom learning with increased student engagement and focus.  However, one of the downsides of this technology is the cost-per-implementation, which can be thousands of dollars per installation.   Fortunately, today there are less expensive alternatives that offer similar functions.  In some cases these substitutes offer unique advantages over existing smart board technology.  Budget conscious decision-makers should evaluate all available options before moving forward with a purchase.   

Comparison:

• SMART Boards
• Promethean interactive whiteboards
• Apple TV/iPad combination with AirPlay
• Document Cameras
• Chromebook with Chromecast

Going #GAFE (Google Apps for Ed)? Here's a Great Resource

More and more schools are flying solo as they move toward becoming a Google Apps for Education school. If you don't know, Google Apps for Education (GAFE)  is a suite of free web applications and cloud-based storage that can be accessed from any modern web browser and is tailored for use in K-12 schools. The most popular apps are Google docs, spreadsheets, presentations, and drawings. This can replace the Microsoft Office Suite and it's all free.  Not only that, it enables students to be able to access their work from any computer and students can work on their documents collaboratively with whomever they choose as long as their teacher gives them permission. Imagine being in school and inviting your parent to help you while you are in class? Imagine having an expert give you feedback on an upcoming presentation.  This is all possible when you are a GAFE school.

The Hottest Posts Everyone's Reading

Here’s the roundup of what's been popular on The Innovative Educator blog. Below you’ll see the top posts along with the number of page views. I hope there's something that looks of interest to you.  If it does, check it out. If you’re inspired use one of those icons below the post to share it with others and/or leave a comment.

Entry	Pageviews
5 Reasons to Allow Students to Use Cell Phones in ... Jul 8, 2012,	10399
Using Cell Phones to Support Student Engagement & ... May 6, 2012,	3668
10 Reasons Cell Phones Should Be Allowed In School... Aug 24, 2010,	3552
Does Twitter have a minimum age requirement? Jun 13, 2013,	3141
6 Ways To Access @YouTube Videos Even If They're B... Oct 12, 2014,	2768
Fear is not an option when it comes to social medi... Sep 24, 2014,	2276
Bored? Explore it! Oct 15, 2014,	2113
Don't Follow the Lead of @cshirky in Banning Techn... Oct 1, 2014,	1887
8 Real Ways Facebook Enriched Ms. Schoening’s Firs... Jul 15, 2010,	894
The Ten No Nos of Teaching with a Projector or Int... May 10, 2010,	814

Going #BYOD ? Educators Share Ideas on Using Devices for Learning

If you're in a school where students have access to technology they have amazing learning tools at their fingertips. While equity and access is wonderful for students, teachers must know how to harness the power of these devices. If they don't, these tools of engagement can turn into weapons of mass distraction.

Check out the slides below for some ideas.


Have ideas of your own? Please visit the presentation at http://tinyurl.com/textingideas and fllow the directions for sharing.

Digital Footprint - Advice from the Experts at Tech Forum NY #TLTF14

If students want to run for office, run a business, or change how things are run where they live, work, or play, they need to be savvy users of social media. This starts with having a positive online reputation. I had the opportunity at Tech Forum New York to speak with four Innovative educators (see below for faces and end of article for names) from elementary, middle, and high school as well as a district administrator about how to best prepare students.  

Below is their advice.  

How can you ensure your students are well Googled by the time they graduate?

The hottest posts everybody's reading

Here’s the roundup of what's been popular on The Innovative Educator blog. Below you’ll see the top posts along with the number of page views. I hope there's something that looks of interest to you.  If it does, check it out. If you’re inspired use one of those icons below the post to share it with others and/or leave a comment.

Entry	Pageviews
6 Ways To Access @YouTube Videos Even If They're B... Oct 12, 2014,	2562
Don't Follow the Lead of @cshirky in Banning Techn... Oct 1, 2014,	1909
The Ten No Nos of Teaching with a Projector or Int... May 10, 2010,	1061
Connect to the Common Core with Resources Students... Sep 21, 2014,	874
8 Real Ways Facebook Enriched Ms. Schoening’s Firs... Jul 15, 2010,	831