From Chalkboards to SmartBoards
A “SmartBoard” is a special type of interactive touch-sensitive white board which, for several years now, teachers have incorporated into classrooms, replacing the static display of chalkboards or overhead projectors.
Sheldon High School, for example, used an EEF grant to acquire one for science students. Explained Sharlene Barnum, Integrated Science teacher from Sheldon, when applying for the grant, “Physics is a complex subject that benefits greatly from visual aids. By advancing from a static problem – solving to an interactive mode, students’ acquisition of the concepts will greatly increase. Class sizes have risen; it has become increasingly difficult to give each student the help they need. The more ways the teacher can present the material, the higher the likelihood of students mastering the concepts.” Teachers routinely report an impressive increase in student engagement when SmartBoards are part of the lesson. Over time, EEF has supported SmartBoard and other technology grants for Awbrey Park, Corridor, Edison, River Road, Cesar Chavez, Bertha Holt, Twin Oaks, Arts & Technology Academy, Monroe Middle School, and School of IDEAS, among others.
Great tools for teaching math, language arts, reading and so much more, SmartBoards are even put to use in music programs, and continue to serve year after year to help students make progress and stay excited about learning.
Way to be SMART!