“It can be done at a low cost,” Klein said.
Interactive whiteboards work as high-tech overhead projectors connected to laptop computers. Teachers can use them to show lessons, online streaming video and Web sites. The technology allows students to more actively participate in lessons.
A projector displays the laptop computer screen on a whiteboard, which then works as a sort of giant touch screen. Teachers or students can use digital pens, rather than regular whiteboard markers, to write on the whiteboard.
Klein said teachers who have access to a laptop and projector could use the interactive whiteboard kit assembled by IR Great Innovations, the company of which Klein is part owner.
Klein, who teaches calculus and advanced statistics, has been an instructor at Centerville High School for 11 years.
During that time, Klein said he has sought out better ways to present information to students. Klein, inspired by a researcher from Carnegie Mellon University who discovered that whiteboard technology could be duplicated inexpensively, worked with business partners to assemble and refine the current kit.
He uses it on a regular basis in his classroom.
“The products we have in the kit are not high-priced products,” he said.
For Andrea Keller, the kit has meant more engaging lessons for her students, who have autism.
Keller, who teaches in Irving, Texas, bought a kit from Great Innovations more than a year ago. She was familiar with how they worked, and believed the technology would be useful in her classroom. However, most models were costly. Keller feared that, even if she was able to obtain one, her young students might inadvertently damage it while participating in lessons.
Now, Keller uses the kit on a regular basis while teaching math and other subjects. Keller uses her pull-down screen to project images. The interactive aspect of the technology allows her students to make choices and even play educational online games as a group.
“They (white boards) are so convenient,” she said. “I am lucky. Every classroom has a projector and every teacher gets a laptop.”
The technology allows her students to be more engaged, and gives them the opportunity to learn more.
“It lets them be part of the lesson,” she said.
For more information about the kits, go to www.irgreat.com.
About the Author