In our
previous post, we saw the importance of using the Smart Board in the language
classroom. We reviewed its uses in the class and how it is used to improve the
language class. Now, we will discuss the requirements for using the Smart Board
successfully in the classroom. In order
to have a successful class using the smartboard, there are some requirements
such as: the software, the USB cable, a projector, a flat surface to project on
and a means of writing or manipulating the content on the flat surface.
First of
all, we need to have the software of the Smart Board installed in our computer
for it to work. The software will depend on the brand of the Smart Board and it
should come in the form of a CD along with the Smart Board when you buy it. The
software will allow you to use the Smart Board linked to your computer.
Then, we
need a USB cable. This will function as a means by which the digital content
will move from the computer to the projector and the other way around. It is
important to have this cable because even if you have the software, the connection
between your laptop and the Smart Board won’t be possible without it.
Next, we
need a projector. This will project the images from your computer. The same
content you have on your computer screen will be shown to the class thanks to
the projector. The projector will increase the size of what you can see in your
computer to a suitable one for all of the class to see the content.
Then, we
also need a flat surface to project the content on. Even though it is said that
any surface can work, it is very much recommended to use the white interactive
board that comes with the Smart Board. This way your content will be displayed
neatly to your students.
Finally, we
need a means of writing or manipulating the content shown on the white
interactive board. Again, although expert say that using your finger prints is
perfectly fine, we advise you to use the smart pen that should come along with
the Smart Board when you purchase it. The white interactive board is going to
respond faster to it than to finger prints.
To
conclude, in order to use the smartboard successfully in the class, you have to
fulfill these requirements. This way, you will use the smartboard without a
problem. As a recommendation, we advise you to look for tutorials on how to use
it. Explore it and have fun with it. Training on how to use the Smart Board is
limited, so you will learn on your own with trial and error.
By: Kroll Gomez and Melissa Rivera
As you guys said, to use smartboards successfully, it is important to follow the good requirements that you have given to us. Something that I didn't know was that is better if we use the white interactive board instead of using our fingers in order to work faster in the smartboards. Good post!
ReplyDeleteAt the beginning, Kathy and I thought that this was a very complicated tool for teaching. But after reading this post, we found that it can be easy to use and that it is one of the most interactive tools for teaching and learning. Sadly, not all classrooms can have one because they are expensive, but without doubts all classrooms need one.
ReplyDeleteHello we think that the smartboard is a excellent tool, is complete and very creative to explain any topic because you can show images, videos, music, texts access to internet to get new information useful to teach.
ReplyDelete