Today, SMARTboard’s are being utilised in many classrooms. However, what do we know about this equipment. What is it? Where did it come from? And most importantly, how do I use it!? This page hopes to enlighten those on their quest through SMARTboard-ia by providing some background knowledge and a list of great resources you can use in the classroom

Where did SMARTboard’s come from?

SMARTboards were first pioneered by SMART Technologies, a company founded in 1987 by David Martin and Nancy Knowlton. There aim was to develop and provide “collaborative products for classrooms and meeting rooms” (SMART Technologies ULC, 2008). SMART boards were first introduced in 1991.

 

What is a SMARTboard?

SMARTboard’s are interactive whiteboards that are connected to computers to allow touch control of Microsoft Applications as well as annotate over these applications using ‘digital ink’. Anything that is done on the SMARTboard can then be saved to use later, just as you would on a regular computer.  SMARTboard’s can cost thousands and can be costly to run and maintain, however, the enormous variety of lessons available through SMARTboard technology is invaluable.  

 

What are the benefits of SMARTboard?

SMARTboard’s allow for whole class collaboration as they are easy for even the youngest student to interact with. Also, the large screen allows all students to view the SMARTboard at the same time. The range of activities available on a SMARTboard eliminate the need for TV’s and DVD players, overhead projectors, CD players and additional computers, consequently cutting school costs!

Dr Mary Ann Bell believes SMARTboards (interactive whiteboards) are very useful tools in the classroom. CLICK HERE to find out why.

 

How do I use a SMARTboard?

To use a SMARTboard is the same as using a computer, however, with an added touch-sensitive element.

 

The following video demonstrates how to use them effectively in the classroom (UK publication).

 

 

Primary ICT – Whiteboard Top Tips 

 

Below are a great range of resources that you can use with your class using SMARTboard technology:

 

- http://www.active-maths.co.uk/whiteboard/therm_15_y5a.html

This link provides a free version of interactive thermometers that show temperatures below zero as well as above. A good starter for a Maths lesson, calculating numbers between temperatures, and good for comparing temperatures in Geography (which country would be around 35* and which would be below zero?) http://www.active-maths.co.uk/whiteboard/therm_15_y5c.html – this link provides the related worksheet.

 

- http://www.active-maths.co.uk/whiteboard/meas_angle1.html

Free version of interactive protractor. Good for introducing or re-instating correct way to use the protractor.

http://www.active-maths.co.uk/whiteboard/angle.html – this link provides the related worksheet.

 

- http://www.metacalc.com/#/large/

Collaborative class calculator that is handy during whole class marking, students can work out if answers are correct. (e.g. “Johnny said the answer is 15. Susie, type it into the calculator to see if he’s right”.)

 

- http://www.abc.net.au/countusin/default.htm

Count Us In – basic counting games for ES1 and S1.

 

- http://www.btbetterworld.com/developing_skills/free_resources/searchresults.ikml?k=Search+resources

Talking and Listening activities based on developing good relationships and related PDHPE units. Ideal for ESL students.

 

- http://www.btbetterworld.com/media/free%20resources/making%20faces/makingfacesMarch08.swf

Another PDHPE site for communication. Good for ES1 but also ideal for ESL students and particularly children with Autism and Aspergers to learn to identify facial expressions and meaning.