Reviewing trends and technology in education

Everyone we've visited for this report has been generous with their time and with providing insights on how to successfully implement new technology.  Listed below is a compilation of advice and warnings from teachers and tech specialists.

Purchase: 

• Smart Board is the leading supplier of interactive whiteboards today.  However, there are several other companies that you should talk to (go to other companies). 

• Smart Board is sold by retailers.   It's essential that you feel comfortable working with specific sales, support and and training staffs.  If you're not, find another supplier.  There are many.

• Make sure that your technology and education departments are both represented in discussions with suppliers.

• Do you want a ceiling mounted, wall mounted or stand-alone projector?  (Keep in mind that standing projectors get bumped into frequently, resulting in the need to re-orient the system.)

• Not all components must be purchased through one company.  Ask Smart, or other leading company what your options are for building the best system for your classrooms.

• What is the price difference between rear and front projection?  Is having rear projection (which doesn't cause shadows) worth the additional cost?

Installation:

• Having a reliable and knowledgeable technology staff is key. 

• Technology staff should be mindful of how the equipment will be used in the classroom, what lighting will be used (to ensure minimum glare) and where the students will sit.

• Ability of technology and education staff to work together is an important consideration.  Installation of whiteboards and subsequent training is a major undertaking.

Training:

• Who will train the staff; how much training will be required to get teachers up and running; when and where will training take place? These questions should be asked and answered before a purchase is completed.

• Training cannot be a one-time, or one-season event.  It should be ongoing and collaborative.

• Consider taking subject-specific training offered by Smart Technologies.

Lesson-Planning:

• Lesson planning for teachers will change.  Rather than think about what video might enhance a lesson, teachers might begin to think what several types of media will complement each other and deepen understanding.

• Lessons will  need to incorporate more time for student/teacher/board interaction. 

• Lesson plans might include software such as RM Frameworks or RM Easiteach