Print len(python) from datetime import datetime
9 years ago
Friday, March 27, 2009
Smart Boards, are they a smart move?
Who wouldn't want a giant touchscreen board being used in their classroom? Teachers would be able to more effectively analyze images in front of the class. You can write on the Smart Board, as well as drag and drop. At first glance it seems like this is the direction all schools should head in. Yet, in class we discussed whether the Smart Board is worth its value. The cost of the Smart Board ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 plus a computer and projector would also be needed. The cost seems very steep, especially in this current economy when many teachers are being cut off and schools just don't have the budget. However I have no doubt that Smart Boards are the way of the future. I see them being purchased by businesses. My prediction is that in 10 years, a Smart Board will be in every major conference room. The Smart Board will be used at board meetings, company meetings, and presentations. If it has positive impact at any of these events, it will be well worth the high cost. The quality of a small company's pitch to a potential investor is critical for the companies chances at success. If the Smart Board can help produce a better presentation it will definitely be purchased. Large companies will also be likely to make the purchase because they can afford to do so. I think Smart Boards are the future, just not in the classroom.
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I agree that the benefits to smart boards are clear and that businesses will use them, but I wonder just how much the budget deficits of schools will affect their purchases of such items. These are the problems schools are facing and will be for awhile.
ReplyDeleteI'm standing with what I said in class; Smart Boards are a huge waste of money. $3000 for a fancy projection screen? Um, NO. However, I will agree that a computer and projector are valuable, this is already proven as many schools and businesses use them. From a cost-benefit standpoint, the equation just doesn't make sense. You're loosing out on money, and the audience isn't getting any large marginal benefits compared to a blank projection screen.
ReplyDeleteSmart boards will probably become much cheaper, as most technology tends to do, and more ubiquitous. I'm sure it's tempting to do away with chalk and blackboards - how much do schools spend on endless supplies of chalk? They might recoup their chalk investment by using smart boards in the long run. There is always economic pain in being on the cutting-edge or being an early adopter.
ReplyDeleteAs the boards become more widespread, I'm sure any great superiority over a screen and projector setup will become apparent. Off the top of my head - saving space by not having to put so much thought into projector set-ups? You either have to mount projectors near the ceiling or make sure the room is set up so that the projected image isn't interrupted. As well, not having to replace projector bulbs might be more "green" - theoretically, I have no data of any kind. Just thinking aloud. :)