ActivBoard Technology in the Classroom

Promethean Planet US

ActivBoards, created by Promethean, are an exceptional educational & presentation tool. In essence, the ActivBoard is an interactive white board that allows teachers to synchronize the workings of their computer, the ActivBoard and video projector. There are numerous applications for this technology, ranging from assessment to lesson design to student motivation, and these will be further explored in posts to come. Hopefully this post will serve to wet your appetite for more information about ActivTechnology.

In short, here's what you can do with an ActivBoard in your classroom or presentation room:

- Display any document that you have on your computer

- Annotate over the document (making a permanent or temporary mark on the document)

- Watch videos & make stop time markings

- Involve students in interactive learning opportunities (Flash Media, etc.)

- Create lessons and flip charts (similar to Power Point presentations)

- Conduct real-time pre-assessments, summative assessments, and formative assessments using ActivVote devices

In coming days I'll further explore the benefits and drawbacks of these and other applications.

Where & How Can Teachers Use Technology?

This blog has been created by a teacher for teachers and people in the technology industry to address issues that involve technology. The broader educational aims are to improve teacher assessment, instruction, organization and communication through the use of assistive technology. In the larger picture, the technology industry can be responsive to educators needs as addressed in the discussion on the blog.

Topics that will be addressed here are:

- Principles of effective introduction of assistive technology

- Assistive Technology for students with Learning Disabilities

- Online learning communities

- Laptops for teachers

- Smartboards and Activboards - how do they stack up against each other?

- School websites - what to look for, creating and updating, essential elements

- Computer Assisted Assessment

- Grading programs

You can expect a post on one of these topics each week. If there are other questions, products or technologies you would like to see explored in this forum, please do not hesitate to contact me.