20 Feb Making the Transition to Interactive Technology

In the beginning was the blackboard and chalk. Then came the whiteboard and marker, which was followed by the whiteboard and projector, which was succeeded by the interactive flat screen. These are the four ages of learning technology and in this post we’ll discuss why schools should transition to interactive technology.

Transitioning to the Interactive Touch Screen

Most teachers today will remember the blackboard and chalk, when they were pupils themselves. For these teachers, making the transition to the interactive touch screen can be a daunting prospect. If you are intimidated by the new technology, you should know that there is no reason to be afraid. Anyone who can use an iPhone or smartphone will have no trouble mastering it. In fact, it is just like a giant iPhone.

Beautiful In Its Simplicity

The interactive flat panel really is beautiful in its simplicity. And it is powerful: in the hands of a good teacher it could do a lot of important work. You might also be surprised to learn that, in many ways, the interactive flat screen is similar to the old black / white board. How is this so? Well, it is roughly the same size and shape of most traditional boards and it is placed in the same area of the class room. It is the focus of learning and the teacher’s authority is maintained through its powerful interface. Indeed, the teacher that can wield its power will become a master educator in no time and be able to give interactive classes like never before.

Interactive Flat Screens Are A Huge Leap Forward

Because the interactive flat screen is so well made and easy to use, it isn’t like a throwback to the old technology. Everybody knows how problematic projectors can be. They are often a nightmare for teachers. The interactive flat screen is a huge leap forward, but it also recalls the traditional blackboard and chalk in its simplicity. Of course, there are also differences between the old and new technologies, but these differences shouldn’t be a cause of fear or trepidation in those teachers who wouldn’t consider themselves overly digitally savvy.

Benefits of Interactive Flat Screens for Learning

Instant access to information means you can speed up learning, which will leave more time for performing other more traditional tasks such as correcting homework and maintaining a dialogue with individual pupils.

Learning also becomes more fluid as you interact with the programme on the screen and your pupils interact with their own devices. Being able to manipulate information and content, be it images or text, is empowering and you’ll soon be doing it with ease.

Transition To Interactive Flat Screens

So, making the transition to the interactive flat screen is not all that difficult. The biggest obstacle many teachers must overcome is their own fears. The truth is, the interactive flat screen is just another tool and a relatively quick one to learn how to use. Here at Toomey AV we have a full AV installation service for schools and some of the best interactive flat screens available in Ireland. To find out more about using interactive panels in your school give us a call now on +353 1 4660515 or contact us online for more info!