How to Choose an Interactive Whiteboard?

What is an Interactive Whiteboard?

An interactive whiteboard is a new technology product similar to a whiteboard. It is an input/output device that connects a projector and computer through peripheral interfaces, displaying the projected image of the computer screen.

Essentially, an interactive whiteboard serves as an absolute coordinate input device for computers, like a large digital drawing tablet, continuously transmitting the coordinates of the user's handwriting and selection status on the whiteboard surface to the computer. Since the interactive whiteboard is just a coordinate input device, it needs to connect to a computer, which projects the computer screen back onto the whiteboard through a connected projector. Calibration is usually required before the projector can accurately align the user's handwriting with the writing points on the electronic whiteboard (this is a key factor in the quality of the interactive whiteboard), providing the user with the effect of writing directly on the surface of the electronic whiteboard.

The connection between the computer and the whiteboard can be wired (e.g., USB) or wireless (e.g., Bluetooth).

Generally, before using an electronic whiteboard, the driver software must be installed on the connected computer to enable the whiteboard to function as a Human Input Device (HID) for the computer.

Unlike traditional blackboard or whiteboard teaching, electronic whiteboard teaching utilizes a projector, computer, and sensing devices to display projected images for writing and teaching processes. This method allows teachers to focus on teaching without needing to copy questions or erase the blackboard, helping to improve teaching efficiency.

Currently, electronic whiteboards on the market utilize one of the following sensing technologies to track movements on the board surface, commonly including infrared optical, camera (optical), and resistive, as well as electromagnetic, laser, and ultrasonic technologies.

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Advantages of Interactive Whiteboards

• Compared to traditional projectors that provide one-way displays, using an interactive whiteboard increases interaction between students and teachers.
• Rich multimedia content combined with teacher explanations and operations can effectively enhance classroom engagement and attract students' attention.
• The recording feature in electronic whiteboard software allows teachers to easily document impromptu or spontaneous teaching content for future improvement.
• Teachers can focus on teaching, saving time on writing questions or erasing the blackboard.

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Disadvantages of Interactive Whiteboards

• Interactive whiteboards are generally more expensive than traditional whiteboards.
• The connection between the whiteboard and the computer directly affects the range of use.
• They are not suitable for use in areas with unstable power supply.
• Poor projector brightness can affect students' vision and concentration.
• Any malfunction in the projector or computer can directly impact the teaching process.
• Screen reflections may cause discomfort for students' eyes.
• Equipment requires regular cleaning and maintenance, which can easily be overlooked.

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Our Team's Thoughtful Recommendations

• General projectors can cause glare and dizziness from direct light hitting teachers' eyes. It is recommended to purchase short-throw or even ultra-short-throw projectors to avoid this issue.
• If the tutoring center operates in a well-lit environment, it is advisable to purchase projectors with over 3000 lumens for electronic whiteboards.
• Some interactive whiteboards may have slow writing response times, making it feel unsmooth and delayed. It is recommended to test or try them before purchase; the closer the writing experience on the interactive whiteboard is to that of a regular whiteboard, the better the quality of the electronic whiteboard.
• Using an interactive whiteboard requires time to prepare teaching materials in advance (lesson preparation). Therefore, the compatibility and richness of the electronic whiteboard software's functions are very important. Good compatibility allows teachers to smoothly import existing materials in other formats, and rich features enable teachers to easily create tailored interactive experiences.
• Before purchasing, consider the size of the classroom. An electronic whiteboard that is too small may prevent students in the back from seeing clearly, affecting their vision and concentration.
• When buying an electronic whiteboard, warranty and after-sales service are very important. Especially after a tutoring center digitalizes most teaching materials, any malfunction can significantly impact classroom teaching. It is crucial to understand the timeliness of services, spare parts availability, and maintenance costs provided by the vendor to avoid high repair expenses in the future.
• It is advisable to ask peers about their usage experiences, particularly tutoring centers that have used them for over one or two years. Understanding the failure rate and ease of use can help avoid purchasing low-quality or poorly serviced electronic whiteboards.