Journal 5

Journal #5 “By Build your Own Board” NETS-2 and 3

Vallis, K. & Williamson, P. (2012). By Build your Own Board. Learning and Leading with Technology, Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-leading/issues/august-2009/build-your-own-board

            The article “By Build your Own Board” discusses the benefits of the latest technology of interactive white boards. Brightboards reflect computer screens onto a large area of wall space, allowing students to view the happenings on the computer software from anywhere in the classroom. According to Vallis, Students can collaborate while using the white board as several students borrow Blue-tooth enabled pen tablets that are wirelessly connected with the computer and projector. Some programs that are used include Geometer’s Sketchpad, computer-aided design programs, Pintar VirtualLab series, and Poly which is a free 3D geometric shape manipulation tool. These programs are fun and intriguing to use so they will spark curiosity and interest in the students. Additionally, students will learn to use technology as it is being integrated into their curriculum. Using Brightboards is also extremely convenient; student can stay seated in a comfortable and safe spot while their work is projected onto the board. Teachers can also be standing anywhere in the room and their notes will still show on the screen. Traditional white boards are still recommended for younger aged classroom settings, but adolescents will enjoy the interactive use of the Brightboards. 

1.      Will teachers be required to receive training in using the Brightboards?

Obviously due to the face that the pen tablets use computer software, the technology is a more advanced than the typical white board marker. Potential problems can occur such as technology malfunction, projector issues, or broken items. If the brightboard brakes suddenly, how will the teacher teach without a white board or bright board? This could be a potential problem as the class could lose time in teaching without the proper technology. Tech help is a must as well as some teacher training in using the software program which the brightboards require. Training will help the teachers to become more efficient in the latest technology.  

2. How costly are brightboards? Will schools be able to economically afford brightboards in all classrooms?

Brightboards are more cost efficient since besides a computer and projector, all the material that is needed are wireless pen tablets. A physical white board is no longer needed, since a large flat empty wall can be used for images to be projected on. According to the article, 10 wireless pen tablets can be purchased for the same price of one single marker whiteboard, which is $3,000.