How an Interactive Whiteboard Benefits the Classroom

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Interactive Whiteboard Technology has been around for over 20 years, but it is only just now gaining traction in the US, a change that is long overdue since the research indicates that digital whiteboard use improves retention by up to 38%¹ and decreases the amount of time it takes to learn complex subjects.

Unfortunately, cost can be prohibitive to schools that are already struggling with funding. Some of the most well-known interactive whiteboards like SMART and Promethean can cost upwards of $4,000 which means that for many schools under financial stress, these whiteboards are simply not an option. BoardShare looks to fill this niche with their pocket sized device that can turn any existing whiteboard or LCD screen into a digital whiteboard and retails for under $350.

The Evolution of the Interactive Whiteboard

Higher end whiteboards also require training to use and take 20-30 months² to master. Two years is a long time to invest in learning new technology and many teachers may be put off by the steep learning curve and significant time sink, especially when they have current students that they need to devote their attention to. BoardShare, on the other hand, is intended to be intuitive and easy to learn. It takes less than a minute to set up and its functions are fairly simple and straightforward.

Users can easily highlight, annotate, or write on any document or web page on their computer and then take a screen shot to present their work later. Or they can save and share it with other BoardShare users. BoardShare is also simple enough that even children will be able to use it to participate in lessons and give their own presentations in class.

When students are able to engage and interact with the lessons they are being presented with, overall retention and interest is increased and BoardShare is dedicated to making this interactive whiteboard technology accessible to the demographics that could use it the most.

¹ http://www.neamb.com/professional-resources/benefits-of-interactive-whiteboards.htm
² http://www.edutopia.org/interactive-whiteboards-technology-success

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