Click on this link to read this is a testimonal article from a New York City special education teacher explaining the virtues and uses of the SMART Board in her classroom. This will give you some insight into its everyday classroom uses. Have you found any new ideas that you might try in your classroom (of the future)? How would/do you use it in your classroom?
85 comments:
The SMART Board is an amazing tool that, when possible, should be used in all classrooms! As the article said, using SMART Boards increases an eagerness to learn as well as attention span in students. One method that the author used that I would try is having the students themselves assist in connecting the SMART Board with the projector and computer. Giving the students ownership makes them feel like a real part of the lesson.
-Michelle A.
I have yet to use a SMART board in my classroom but cannot wait to! They are the chalk board and will only help to increase student learning and like Michelle said their attention span. Having the students use the SMART board in a hands-on way will only continue to keep them actively involved. Liek Michelle said the SB is an amazing tool and withthe ability to be interactive, students will want to participate.
Theresa Klee
It is so nice to hear from a teacher on the topic of using a SMART board. I hear many teachers now that the school is just bringing in the SMART board and do not know how to use it. There are just certain people that have it and learn how to use it. I believe this can be very useful in the classroom, while I was observing a comuter class it helped the students see what they were supposed to do and was able to give a class presentation. It is a very beneficial tool.
Jaime S.
It was great hearing feedback from a teacher who is a SB user. The SB is a great tool to keep students engaged in a lesson. I will soon be teaching math, which to some people is the most boring subject. Having a smart board to teach math would definitely be more attracting to students. SB tools has math manipulatives, such as objects, shapes, scientific calcultor, etc. Having students work at the smart board to measure an angle or to graph parabolas becomes much more interesting. I can see how students would want to participate more just to play around with the objects.
I agree with what Laura said. While not all aspects of math/science/social studies etc are boring, they do have some sections that don't grab students or teachers interest. In addition to showing web pages and adding your own or students "commentary" to the smart board, there is the added bonus of using the markers, manipulatives and additional goodies that would be impossible to use on a traditional chalk/white board. Getting the students to interact with their lesson content and bring a new aspect and dimension to their learning. A "boring" lesson or lecture becomes fun and interactive for all involved.
I must say, that being a substitute teacher, I am not always able to use the smart board in my classroom. However, every so often I do have the ability to use it and I love using it. Not only do I enjoy using it, but the students enjoy it as well and enjoy when they are learning much more. Giving the students the ability to use technology in their lessons give them the ability to relate more to the lessons and that is what I find most important. I feel that the smart board is something that all teachers should take advantage of.
- Jackie C
I can personally support the fact that the SMART Board is a great technology to teach with. I started the year without the SMART Board in one of my classrooms, however it was put in over April Break. I can confidently say that all of the students love the SMART Board and they are all very attentive now when I use the SMART Board in class.
Because the students of today use technology in their everyday lives, the incorporation of technology in the classroom is very important. Unfortunately learning the SMART Board and its tools is time consuming, however I believe that it is time well spent for the benefits of our students. The utilization of the SMART Board also allows for the students to physically be involved in the lesson by touching/writing on the SMART Board. Therefore I do agree with Michelle that allowing the students to take ownership of their learning allows them to feel like a part of the lesson.
~Bethany
I feel that the SMART Board is an awesome tool. The first time I've seen the SMART board was in my math class last semester and I must admit that I am not a "Happy camper" when it comes to math, but for this math class I was able to pay attention and learn the math topics. I also love to use it for my presentations and it's very exciting when the kids are able to learn off of it. It's a great technology that allows so many options to for teachers to present a lesson or for students to show a presentation. The SMART Board also allows the Students and the Teachers to be creative and gives the "Real life" experience.
M.Abreu
T/Th Class
In the middle of this year, a smart board was installed in my classroom and since then, my students have truly enjoyed using it and learning. It is good for all subjects and the students seem to be very interested in it and jump at the chance to touch it and use it.
I think that every classroom should have a smart board. As Laura said, the smart board is applicable to all subjects, and includes math manipulatives that my students have enjoyed using. It gives the students a different way to learn difficult concepts.
Nicole F
M/W
This is a great article on the use of SMART Boards in the classroom. I agree with the author in that it is a useful technology tool for all levels of students and it reaches all learning styles. I plan to use this tool when I start teaching complex math applications to my students.
Furthermore, I think it is a great tool for students because it helps them retain information in better forms. Students are not only reading, visualizing and listening, but they are touching two-dimensional versions of topics taught and having fun at the same time.
Finally, I agree with Nicole in that the SMART Board is a tool that can be used in all subject areas and that it opens an alternative avenue for students to learn challenging concepts.
Sonia Montalvo, T/TH, 6p-9p
I have not had a chance to use a SMART board yet, but seeing some of the amazing features it can do I think it is great for student interaction. When using a SMART board it makes the lesson more engaging and interactive. Teachers are able to take a typical boring lesson and turn it into a fun and enthusiastic lesson. I have not begun teaching yet but when I do I hope to have a smart board in my classroom.
Kim F
I have not had a chance to use a SMART board yet, but seeing some of the amazing features it can do I think it is great for student interaction. When using a SMART board it makes the lesson more engaging and interactive. Teachers are able to take a typical boring lesson and turn it into a fun and enthusiastic lesson. I have not begun teaching yet but when I do I hope to have a smart board in my classroom.
Kim F
I agree with Sonia. The SMART Board is a tool that can be used in all subject areas. In response to Kim's comment once you get to use the SMARTboard you see how amazing it is and you will love it. It makes learning so much fun for the kids and for the teachers to teach off of it.
M.Abreu
T/Th
I think the Smartboard is a great tool that use be used as often as possible. There are an unlimited amount of resources that can found and used on the smart board.
I also agree with Nicole, that the SmartBoard can be used in all subject areas, due to the manuliptives that can be found in the galleries. Its all a matter of learning how to use the technology and finding out all it has to offer.
Katie G
My district has purchased a number of Promethean Boards (same as a Smart Board I’m told), but I’ve yet to get my hands on one in my classroom. I have, however, been to training classes through my district’s professional development offerings. So, even though I’ve had training, I haven't really had access. Our art department had one installed in the computer lab where I teach computer programming. I’m sure I’ll find it handy in September, but wish I had one where I really need it – in my math classroom.
I’m told by colleagues that it’s great for demonstrating the use of the graphing calculator. That would be a big help. My students would get to see and use programs like Geometer’s Sketchpad if I had a Smart/Prom Board. I’m sure I’ll find a million ways to make one useful, when I get the opportunity. It sounds trivial, but the easy access to color text alone, would be a godsend. You can change colors so quickly – very handy when teaching Geometry. Also, I use interactive websites now, but my students can’t have the hands-on experience from my laptop. The “Board” would give them a chance to do that. It would be a great asset and I can see the potential for deeper, more meaningful math lessons. I think we’re all in agreement about this article and Smart Boards.
There wasn’t much in the article regarding ideas for my specific content area and use of the SMART board; however, just the way in which the author suggested implementing it into the classroom sounds effective. I like the idea of having the students take responsibility for setting up and disassembling the board before and after every class. I think that in addition to teaching them responsibility, it really is a great way to make the students feel vested in their own learning process. It is very true that in our current time technology is of the utmost interest to students and I can’t think of a better way to motivate and engage them then using a SMART board throughout their lessons. It is like having a giant iPad in the classroom and I have seen firsthand how excited the kids are just for the opportunity to go up and use the board. It makes even the most ordinary of tasks, such as a crossword puzzle vocabulary exercise, seem fun and hands-on. In the future I hope to be provided with a great deal of training so that I can use the SMART board as much as possible in the classroom. It seems as if education is on the verge of converting to using the SMART board in all lesson plans and I think being a graduate student in education at this time I am very fortunate because it will hopefully prepare me for such a drastic change in the way the modern classroom takes shape.
I also agree with Nicole. Every classroom should have a smart board and over the course of the next decade I think every class will.
After reading about the article on SmartBoards I understood more about how important this tool truly is. Not only is it an amazing resource full of information and lessons enhancers it touches a variety of student learning styles which is what we strive to do as teachers. The article stated that students can be mobile and interact with SmartBoard. They remember lessons because there moving rather then listening to the traditional ways of talk to chalk teaching. As I think to the future I wonder what wonderful creations will be established that further enhance student learning like the SmartBoard.
Kristen
T/TH
#4 In my classroom, I love having the SmartBoard in the room because it delivers so much more capabilities to the classroom that was never before available to students. The issue is that there is a lag between the capabilities of the teacher and those of the students. What I have found is that the students are fairly savvy, and if you allow them to be more active in their roles in learning and assisting, you will find that they will help you with the technology and make the class a lot more fun, a lot more interactive, and a create a better learning environment. What I would like to be able to have in my class is an APPLE based computer network, where I can truly have a multimedia engine where I can have multiple windows opened at one time, where I have limitations in the Microsoft operating system environment that I have today.
I do my work at home on an APPLE, and, as I type this blog, I have 6 different windows open so that I can quickly pick and choose what I would like to show, demonstrate, or cover.
The SmartBoard is only as good as the operator and the computer engine behind it, but, that stated, it does allow for greater options in learning and sharing knowledge then students have ever had in the past.
When the students can come to the board and access information, it truly creates a better learning environment.
Ed Wachowicz
M-W
The SMART Board is a truly wonderful addition to a classroom. As a future math teacher, I can think of countless ways to incorporate it into my lessons. It is so useful at every level in mathematics since the board is capable of so many different aspects of math.
I have seen the protractor used just like the author mentioned. It is so great to allow the students to measure the angles and come to various conclusions about the angles, all while being up in front of their class explaining their findings. This is a wonderful way to have the students present their work and feel more comfortable speaking to an audience.
I would definitely use this tool as a means of encouraging students to stand up and do their work on the board to be presented by them to the class. I think this is an invaluable lesson, and one that is not as focused on in a mathematical setting.
Also, like Mary said, having the applications that can be accessed on the Board like Geometer’s Sketchpad is really great. These are programs that can really help with differentiating lessons to the needs of all the students.
Students seem genuinely excited when a SMART Board is featured as part of a lesson. As the writer states in the article and many fellow posters attest to, this tool can help pull a student into content that might not usually be a draw. The teacher's positive experience with SMART Boards reinforces the notion that it is a valuable and useful resource in helping to engage and retain a students interests -- in all subject areas. Like the writer, I would welcome workshops on the topic to help me use a SB to the fullest in my classroom.
I agree with Mary Beth "It is so useful at every level in mathematics since the board is capable of so many different aspects of math." I've used the virtual calculator program through Texas Instruments too. If a student (or 10) forgot to bring in their calculator & you want to show a solution to a set of linear equations, its easier to tap away at the SmartBoard on the virtual TI-84 than it is to use the old projector hookup. This way, students can also see what buttons you're hitting & they can come up and test it out, too.
Having the students involved is key though, no matter what the class. I've found its much more beneficial to both the students and the teacher......but like Ed said, it also depends on the teacher and the computer's performance to see how great the SmartBoard is.
-Will S. M/W 6-9pm
Although I have yet to use the SMART Board I am eager to do so. I look forward to enhancing my lessons with the use of the SMART board. I agree with Ed W. that the SMART board is only as good as the person using it. I also agree that it my lack of experience is an opportunity to build the technology confidence and esteem of my students. I look forward to continuing to learn the seemingly magical advances the SMART board has to offer.
Rachel K.
It would be great to have a smart board in the classroom. I’ve seen how it has been used before at work but they’re not provided in all the classrooms which is too bad. I would definitely use it in my math class. I like the idea of the students seeing things in two-dimensional so they can better visualize what they are learning and this technology allows them to actually manipulate and maneuver things around to solve the problems. I could see why the teacher loved having the smart board. M. Malloy
It would be great to have a smart board in the classroom. I’ve seen how it has been used before at work but they’re not provided in all the classrooms which is too bad. I would definitely use it in my math class. I like the idea of the students seeing things in two-dimensional so they can better visualize what they are learning and this technology allows them to actually manipulate and maneuver things around to solve the problems. I could see why the teacher loved having the smart board. M. Malloy
This is the second article I've read in the last week regarding the virtues of SMART boards in the classroom. I love the idea of incorporating all manner of differentiation into a lesson using one simple piece of equipment.
I have heard though that not all districts are as open and welcoming to this sort of technology as far as training to teachers. I think this is such a shame. To provide this technology and not educate on the myriad ways it can be used in your classroom is such a waste. I hope that all districts will begin to understand this.
Like John and Nicole said, there will probably be a SMART board in classrooms within the next 10 years. This is so exciting to me as a future teacher to think of getting my hands on that technology.
-Marina M.
When i first saw the smart board in high school it was a prototype and i was not very interested in it at all. Now that i am studying to become a teacher i think it is the most creative tool a teacher can use. The things this machine can do and the ability it has to present any type of material a teacher wants is astounding. The thought of performing a presentation on a board without having to click anything never came to my mind. Being able to draw on a tv and then have the ability to erase the material is just amazing to me. Students will also love this piece of equipment because it is something anyone can figure out and use it is that easy.
I like how Shena Sanghavi noted the fact that by using SMART boards in the classrooms, teachers are utilizing a form of education (technology) that students are familiar with and like. I think that by meeting students where there interests are really helps to make the educational information more meaningful and engaging. Reflecting upon the article I think that SMART boards have so many beneficial qualities They build upon students interests, they address the manipulative aspect of differentiation of instruction, they are interactive, and it uses the technology aspect that students are so familiar and comfortable with. I like how SMART boards are so versatile and can be used across grade levels and subject areas. It is also encouraging to hear teacher’s experiences of students being more eager to learn, participate in lessons, and retain the information better due to the use of SMART boards.
Building upon what Marina said, I have also heard of some school districts not wanting to incorporate the use of SMART boards into the classroom. I understand that some may have concerns that by placing too much emphasis on technology, students may not learn basic skills such as penmanship and library skills. But I think that as with anything, there needs to be a middle ground. I think that by not introducing technology in such a technological savvy world would be a disservice to students. Especially because we want to teach our students to be lifelong learners and to be adaptable. I think that students should have both technological experiences as well as other traditional school skills.
After reading the article and my classmate’s responses, I believe that the SMART board is an excellent tool to have in the classroom. I also agree with Nicole and believe that every classroom should have a SMART board because the capabilities to enhance student learning are endless. The article gave me a few new ideas on how I can use the SMART board in my classroom such as: allowing my students to measure angles with an interactive protractor, it will let my students explore the world while they feel like they are on a boat, and it gives my students the ability to see how molecules change as water goes from a solid to a liquid.
The SMART board will be an excellent resource for me when I am in the classroom. It will give me the ability to differentiate instruction in all of my lessons that will appeal to the different learning styles of all of my students. I will incorporate the activities from the SMART board into my curriculum. It complements any lesson taught in the classroom. I believe it makes the material come alive in the classroom in a fun and engaging manner for students. The SMART board will serve as an indispensable tool for me when I have a classroom.
Lauren T
Tu/Th
As addressed in the article and by fellow classmate Michelle, the SmartBoard is an amazing tool. It is an innovative piece of technology that has put a whole new twist on teaching. Students are actively engaged in lessons and attention spans are increasing. I love the possibilities the whiteboard brings to the learning experience as well as the teaching experience. On both side of the learning spectrum students and teachers are constantly learning and increasing in knowledge as technology continues to advance.
Danielle S.
I completely agree with Ali in that there needs to be a "middle ground" between basic skills and incorporating advance technological devices in the classroom. While SMARTBoards are extremely helpful in that they appeal to students with various learning styles and enable lessons to "come to life" (according to the article), they are not replacements for other skills. While it is important to prepare our students for the digital world, it is equally important to teach students basic skills. Our students need to learn research techniques, writing strategies, and reading comprehension in order to enable them to operate technology effectively. There should not be an exchange, but a balance.
Katie F. EDU 521 Tues/ Thurs.
i agree wtih Katie's comment that , "there should not be an exchange, but rather a balance....". we need to reinforce out students basic educational needs. However, I do think that by the use ot the SMART boards this will encourage our students to work at their own pace to better write, comprehend and be more prepared to present information that they will need to share with their classmates. As much as the SMART board appears to somwhat miraculous, it is still amatter of the student searching for information. The SMART board, assists in enagaging the student's attention, and as a result is a more effective tool to chieve that goal.
Where it was earlier menetioned by the author that her students helped set up the system, I agree that they take more out of the experience when they are able to
assist in the creation of the
equipment.
I have found from past experience that a more positive end result is achieved when a student becomes an active prticipant.
The SMART board is a current, and "cool" way to attract the student's attention, and at the same time, engage their curiosity to learn.
The possibilities are endless!
Elizabeth G. EDU / T/TH
I must agree with what Elizabeth and Katie have said before me, that although the Smart board is an amazing and interactive way to get students involved, there also needs to be a balance in using this technological tool and the other resources that are still readily available in all classrooms. The author makes a good point when stating that the SMART board can be utilized for all ages and grade levels, and seems to be a most beneficial tool in reinforcing concepts and differentiates learning in a way that a chalk board and handouts cannot possibly do.
I also agree with what Marina said, that if districts are going to provide this tool they should make sure to properly educate their staff on how to use it in order to make sure it is being utilized properly and effectively. Like we have discussed and read, it is a wonderful tool when used correctly. The SMART board allows the students to take ownership and engages them in lessons in ways that were never possible before, but that cannot be done without the teacher being properly educated on how to correctly use it.
Allison P. EDU 521.03
The Smart board is a great addition to the classroom. If given the chance all schools should definitely try to provide a SMART board in every class. Like the article says it increases our students attention span, it makes them more eager, and it keeps the class interesting. It also encourages students to participate. I have observed classes that use he SMART board and it is amazing what these machines can do.
- Natalie M.
I love the article because I love the idea of a new technology to get my future studetns involved in my lesson. I deffinately agree with Will. The tool had the ability to show anything that is beiong taught.
It helps students be more interesting and "In touch" with what they are learning. It can help bring things to life and allow students be more involved while they have fun! I cant wait to use this in my classroom.
Kristal C.
If I was able to do this: "For example, students are able to go up to the SMART Board and dissect a frog without a real frog!" I wouldn't have failed 5th grade science!
But, seriously, what was really inspiring was this quote: "Whenever I roll out the SMART Board, I am heartened by the students’ enthusiasm and their eagerness to learn! This has been an amazing tool that not only keeps my students engaged but also gives them a unique educational opportunity." If the SMART Board can provide students an opportunity to be engaged and excited to learn, than its an invaluable tool.
-Amy E.
I have seen Smart Boards being used in the classes I have observed during my Phase I and Phase II observations and they seem like really great tools for student interaction and student engagement in learning. I have no experience with using the Smart Board technology but I would really like to learn more. I hope that when I do my student teaching, if my classroom has the Smart Board technology (and I hope that many more schools will be getting this equipment) that I am able to learn how to use it so that I will have that advantage when I am out in the field. Students can be really be actively participating in the lesson and excited about what is taking place in the classroom. I only wish that more schools could have this kind of technology in their classrooms because it really seems to have a lot of benefits for students.
Only half way through the summer session of EDU 521, I feel that I have already found numerous new ways to use my SmartBoard come September. Currently, I had been using my SmartBoard for PowerPoint presentations, posting the daily do now, and pulling up news articles. Next year I plan to greatly expand my use of the SmartBoard and incoprate virtual field trips, Google Earth explorations, Podcasts, and Webquests, amongst many other avenues. I agree with the teacher in this article when she says that students are more likely to participate when presented with the opportunity to touch and interact with the SmartBoard. I am very eager to plan new lessons for the fall using my recent increase in technological knowledge, and would like to keep learning new ways to enhance my use of the interactive whiteboard.
Sarah Jane M.
I believe that the SMART board is a great tool to use in classrooms because our world today is mostly technology based. I feel that there is so much more you can do with a SMART board to make lessons interactive and fun for the children. As a future math teacher, I definitely have found some new ways in which I will use the SMART board once I am in a classroom. I plan to incorporate many more videos into my lessons and many games and interactive worksheets for the kids to do. I think that this will help them to be more engaged and it will increase their attention span. I think that this will be good for the students so that way they will learn different methods and see different perspectives on how to solve problems. I agree with what Sarah said, that students will be more likely to participate in lessons and activities and the lessons will be more hands-on than just straight lecturing.
Ryann Kramer
I completely agree that all teachers should use the SMART Board to make their lessons come to life. Students totally enjoy the concept of the interaction. It's true from my experience that they are reading, visualizing and listening, and participating in the curriculum. Students like to feel like they are contributing in the classroom and the SMART Board is a perfect way for them to become engaged.
I agree with Michelle A. By encouraging students to participate in the lessons with the SMART Board, it makes them feel like they are actually part of the lesson.
This is yet another encouraging testamony about the positive impact of technology in the classroom: engaging, differentiation, inclusive of all, and deeper learning are just some of the repetitive themes we are hearing. When I complete my masters and NYS Teaching Certification I am committing to myself to start out with Smartboard lessons. (Hopefully Smartboards will be available in the district I will teach in!) The interactive nature of this style of teaching can deepen student's learning and understanding of content....which is the goal of educators.
I liked this specific teacher's idea of letting the students set up the technology. Its a win - win: helps the teacher and empowers the student!
Sarah S.
I agree with some of the earlier blog posts about providing teacher training. If this type of technology is to be adopted by teachers and effectively utilized in the classroom, teacher training MUST be available!!
Sarah S.
I truly believe that the SMART board is an influential tool in the classroom. It not only provides ease for a teacher to effectively deliver a lesson, but for the students understanding.
I think it is wonderful that some districts are beginning to advocate for Smart boards in the classrooms.It is definitely a technology that will have a lasting impact on the way we teach and how students learn. Recently my principal has submitted for a grant that will not only give our school two additional SMART Boards but will also provide extensive training for 10 teachers! Hopefully I will be chosen as one of the ten as I am so enthused and intrigued to learn more about SMART Boards and how I can effectively use it within my classroom.
John and Nicole mentioned how in the next decade almost every classroom will be equipped with a SMART board. I find this so amazing and exciting as a teacher and a future parent one day!
-Bianca T
This article introduced several new ideas that I might try in my classroom of the future. I think its suggestion of making students responsible for assembling the SMART Board is wonderful. I agree that this action will help students gain a sense of responsibility and feel proud of themselves, and I like how there can be roles for every student. I also see the greater importance of kinesthetic manipulation of characters and information using the SMART Board; at first, I just thought this might simply appeal to kinesthetic learners. Now, I understand that physically manipulating the SMART Board is a great way to enhance class participation. Students who might feel intimidated traditionally raising their hands and offering an idea in front of the whole class may be more inclined to participate by physically interacting with the SMART Board as part of a fun lesson. The fun, user-friendly nature of SMART Board, furthermore, makes lessons and class participation more inviting.
I might like to try utilizing the interactive protractor function to have students measure and classify angles. I think this would be a great illustration of the concept of different angle types. I also very much like the idea of using Google Earth or virtual tours on the SMART Board so, as the article writer suggests, learners can feel like they are exploring the earth from their seats. Most importantly, as discussed in other blog conversations, I believe employing SMART Board for the differentiation of instruction is perhaps SMART Board’s greatest function; it accommodates virtually every learning style.
-Jen Meliambro
I appreciate Ryann’s ideas for using videos, games, and interactive worksheets on the SMART Board. There is such a plethora of instructional options that the SMART Board encompasses; Ryann’s thoughts sound particularly interactive and educational- and particularly fun! It’s amazing how many applications and uses of the SMART Board are in existence.
-Jen Meliambro
The SMART Board introduces a hands on approach to the students. When introducing new material/lessons it is important the student is engaged in the lesson and intrigued by the lesson as well. I beleive that the SMART Board allows students to do just that. I agree with Jackie when she says that substitute teachers really dont get a chance to utilize the SMART Board. When given a chance i will make sure to introduce brand new activities in science, ELA, and Math. Thanks to professor Maroney i have learned innovative ways of creating activites from the SMART Notebook and making them come alive on SMART Board.
Brenda Kassim
The SMART Board is an excellent tool for the classroom. I would use it to run PowerPoint displays with links to various videos. It is a very good way to keep them engaged visually. As far as the kinesthetic, I would have review games that the children can manipulate themselves as well as virtual dissections. I feel that even if I have the material to dissect, the students can benefit from a trial run to get them more familiar with where the parts are in an actual specimen. I truly enjoy the fact that I could write directly on a PowerPoint as I display it in actual handwriting with arrows to connect the ideas.
Brian G
First of all, I think it's great that Sneha Sanghavi finds the SMART Board to be so helpful in engaging all of her students. I have found that motivating students is one of the most challenging aspects of teaching, and I hope the use of technologies such as SMART Boards will help me in this regard.
I also most definitely agree with the article's assertion that SMART Boards are a great way to tap into our students' interest in and knowledge of technology. In fact, I know a fifth grade teacher who tells me that her students know more about the SMART Board than she does. However, this is not too much of a problem, as her students very much enjoy teaching her how to use it! As Sarah said, this helps the teacher and empowers the student.
Personally, as a future language teacher, I foresee many uses for the SMART Board in my teaching. I hope to utilize it for teaching the language itself, as I have seen many SMART Board activities that appear to lend themselves well to language practice. I also hope to use the SMART Board to spice up my teaching with interactive virtual field trips and other such things.
The Smart Board in the classroom today promotes an eagerness to learn and a multi dimensional approach to learning. Having students become involved is a sure way for them to understand what they are learning. All students, and not just special education students benefit from interactive learning. The more the teacher and technology can incorporate new information the better, overall for the student.
After reading my classmates posts, I agree with Sarah Jane M. The use of podcasts, webquests, and the many other tools we learned this summer can be easily incorporated within the lesson using the Smart Board. The Smart Board has become an essential tool of the classroom.
For a classroom population raised on the iPod touch, the SMART board is going to resonate with them in a far more meaningful way then handing them a piece of chalk to answer a question. What I like about the limited exposure which I have had to this technology is the flexibility it provides. As I have mentioned before, I have seen it used in math and science far more than in ELA, however, in just going through the toolkit feature last week I noted some applications for it in this content area.
Dan M.
The Evolution Web 1.0, Web2.0 to Web 3.0 was a very interesting video. As I was listening to it, I can not believe how much technology has advanced. The use of Web 2.0 was mentioned in the video as the first time the user of a computer interacts with others by blogging and social networking. Now with the 3.0 web the use of smart systems and broadban technology has made it available to the entire world. Technology is basically at our fingertips with cell phones, facebook, and digital cameras.
However, I believe one day computers may control the world if it continues this way, but hopefully mankind will be able to control it.
-Jennifer Sandoval
The Smart Board works very well for all levels of students and touches on all types of learning styles. For example, students are able to go up to the SMART Board and dissect a frog without a real frog! They are able to measure angles with an interactive protractor and figure out which type of angles they are. Students are able to explore the world while feeling like they are on a boat. They are able to see how molecules change as water goes from a solid to a liquid. The Smart Board is the new generation in technology, it captivates the interest of my students to want to learn.
-Jennifer Sandoval
I was never a big believer in using an abundance of technology in my classroom, because I thought it took away from the basic learning and specific, important ideas that are neccessary to get accross. After beginning my job as an ELA teacher in an inner-city middle school where there are a lot of reading, writing, language barrier, and behavioral problems, my opinion has drastically changed. It is an extreme challenge to engage these students and keep them engaged. Using the smart board and having them interact with it themselves has helped me and them to be successful. It is an amzing tool that keeps their attention and encourages them to participate. The strategy of letting the students set up the projector and the computer for the days lesson is a fantastic idea that my students have grown to love. Not only does it help me out, but it gives the students a sense of ownership, and they feel like I trust them with something important.
The best part of the smart board is its interactive abilities. It not only increases their attention, but it increases their learning ability and retention of the information. It is also very helpful when it comes to time management. I only have 40 minute periods and it is hard sometimes to get everything done. But having a smart board gives me the capability to have each page and each part of the lesson up and running at the touch of my fingertips. I can move quickly from one activity to the next. I think the smartboard is an amazing tool, and I am very lucky and happy to have it in my classroom. I think all teachers should have the opportunity to teach with one and all students should have the opportunity to learn with one. There are different tools and lessons that I can develop on the smartboard to specifically target my students areas of weakness. It's absolutely fantastic and I don't know what I would do without one.
-Angela Tornincaso
I found Angela's comments very helpful in that she mentions using the Smart Board to target students' areas of weakness. A tool that can be used so specifically can be a quite a powerful tool. I also like that it can be used for all learning styles and so help a teacher differentiate within a lesson.
Smart Boards have been in use in my local school district for the last three years, starting when my daughter was in fourth grade. She was very excited about it, and her teacher gave me a very quick demonstration during an open school night, including the frog dissection item. Even in so brief a time, it was impressive.
My only concern as a teacher candidate, aside from keeping a balance in usage, is learning how to use it (it seems rather intimidating) and then making the most of it so that learning is meaningful.
I agree with Michelle A. The SMART Board is AMAZING! There are no other words to describe it. I also find the SMART Board to be much more comprehensive to use than any other interactive whiteboard created. Where I work, we only have SMART Boards (or some version of it). Not only do the students seem more interested in the topics I am teaching but they want to participate more. When I ask a student to do a math problem on the board I will have about 90% of my class with their hands up. They are always itching to use the SMART Board whether it is to draw a picture or solve a math problem. Being able to get my students excited about math due to a new piece of techology is more than I could ever ask for.
-Kristine D.
Having used a SMART board I can say it is much more then just an interactive chalkboard. It has many programs and games that can facilitate in teaching specific lessons. These lesson now become engaging and visually stimulating to the children, this will cause them to pay more attention to the lesson and will want to participate in any way.
Matt M
I really hope to have a SMART board in my future classroom. While I have not yet been able to work with one, I think that it will bring nothing but good things! I am aware of the number of tools and activities it provides for teachers and students to work with. The article, along with some people that have responded agree that it changes a classroom for the better, and definitely helps with keeping attention of a class, making lessons exciting, and providing different mediums for students that have unique learning styles. I think that students find the SMART board interesting and fun because it is new and there are constantly new activities provided by it for the classroom. This also provides time saving for the teacher, and a tool for organization. It seems to be nothing less than amazing!
The SMART Board is an innovative way to engage students in the lesson. I feel that the chalk-board is ancient along with the white board. SMART Boards are proven to give students a sense of excitement about a lesson and retain more information because it is a hands-on learning experience. I feel along with everyone else here that SMART Board is the way of future learning and teaching and I am also excited to use one in the future!
I think SMART Boards are the coolest thing since sliced bread. I love how the students can come up to the board and make things move and literally get hands on. It also makes it easier to keep a record of your notes throughout each lesson and incorporate more video, sound bites and picture clips which is important for social Studies. I do think that teachers do not have adequate training on the SMART board and fail to utilize it for what it is. Most students in a school I was oberving at knew mre about the SMART board then the teacher. If districts plan on spending the money to put a SMART board in ever classroom, which i think they should, I think they better train people proberly so they can actually use the money that was spent.
I had the opportunity to use the SMART board when I student taught. The children loved seeing lessons that were interactive and utilized the board. They seemed to be more eager to raise their hand and participate when I used it. I liked the virtual aspect of "rolling the dice" the children would come up and do it with many "oohs" and "aahs". Even a brainpop video with the quiz at the end, was that much more engaging on the board. I do hope that I have the opportunity to use the SMART board again in my future classroom.
Kaitlyn D
I agree with M. Abreu, I too felt that the smart board completely enhanced my experience in math class last semester. Being out of school for over 20 years, this math class was a refresher course for me, and the smart board taught me modern ways of teaching mathematics. I did two internships, the first one had a smart board and didn’t use it because the laptop in the class didn’t have updated software to run the smart board program. The second one used it for ELA, cloze procedures and power point presentations. I have never used one before and I look forward to learning how. Students are so technologically advanced, that the smart board should be a cinch for them to use. I think the interactive lessons will help enhance the students learning; also the hands on experience can improve memory retention. I look forward to dissecting a frog on the smart board!
I think the smartboard is a refreshing new tool that will enhance learning on various levels.The smart board keeps children engaged longer then a chalkboard does. By having children eager to come up to write on the smartboard is stimulating for the student coming up to the board as well as the students paying close attention to whats going on sitting in their seats. The programs available on the SB aid and enhance the teachers lessons, therefore this new tehnology is beneficial for the teachers and students.Lindsay S
I was introduced to SMARTboards during my undergraduate work, and thought it was an interesting piece of technology, but really wasn't aware of it's many capabilities until the last two years. We recieved one for our classroom through a grant, and are thankful for it everyday! Though my students are much younger than eighth graders, they are special education students, and I feel that the SMARTboard technology works wonders for them as well. It adds instant flare, and excitement to any lesson, with all of the capabilities for adding sound, animation, and chances for students to drag and drop words, letters, numbers or objects. I agree with Laura, that people often find Math to be a boring subject, but that the use of the SMARTboard during math lessons really boosts motivation, and participation. Even without tapping into all of the endless internet resources, the SMARTnotebook program itself, has tools such as interacive calculators, dice, and manipulatives, which really enhance any math lesson. In addition, we even use the smartboard for things as simple as attendance, and lunch count, wheres students must drag and drop their names into the appropriate columns. It is so cool to watch even the youngest students manuipulate this giant touch screen!
The SMART board is most definitely a fantastic way to keep students engaged, as well as, teachers! From what I have observed students really love the SMART board and seem to participate and get a lot more actively involved, as opposed to the plain old chalk board. I hope one day I have a SMART board in my classroom.
Jamie L.
I feel that the smartboard is an excellent new tool for teachers in the 21st century. "A Key part of our jobs as educators is tap into students' interests and try to use those to our advantage in the classroom." i believe quote sums up the smart board. I have found that the students that do the best are the ones who participate the most. The interactiveness of the smart board increase the participation of students who normally would participate and thus make them better students.
-Mike S.
The article on SMART Board is so true. While I was student teaching in a 5th grade class I also watched a student dissect a frog on the SMART Board and it was very real from the cutting to seeing the organs. I agree with Michelle and the article about the eagerness that the students have to learn. I saw how excited the students were to read stories on the SMART Board from scholastic news because it became interactive. The SMART Board is a great tool that I hope to become proficient with.
I think the Smartboard is a great tool. After reading about the article on SmartBoards I understood more about how important this tool truly is. It’s the future of classroom instruction. Using the Smart Board makes it easier for students to see and participate. Students also enjoy getting to use the appliance and feel that it is an interesting device. When the students can come to the board and access information, it truly creates a better learning environment. I like the idea of the students seeing things in two-dimensional so they can better visualize what they are learning. I agree with those who are saying all classrooms will have this tech in the next 5 to 10 years.
The smartboard is a fantastic, innovative tool. One of the best aspects of it is that there is audio, visual, and kinesthetic interaction. The visual impact alone will be enough to draw students in, and once they are engaged, the side effect is going to be the learning. If I'm lucky enough to get one in my classroom, it will certainly take full advantage.
I have a SMART Board in my classroom and I use it frequently to enhance lessons. It is great for children who have different learning styles and who may be visual or kinesthetic learners. After reading many articles on the SMART Board, learning more about it and finding some great educational websites; next year I know that I will incorporate it more. I look forward to using it for more lessons and maybe even using it for attendance and calendar time.
-Elizabeth B.
In most of the classrooms I have observed in so far, I have had the privilege to see smart boards in action. It really is amazing how the simple act of writing on a computer screen instead of a standard chalkboard can get students to focus so much more. Also, the motion controls and other interactive features the smart board has is a great alternative to the usual lecture and note taking. I certainly hope in the future I will have the privilege of having one in my classroom. Social Studies in my opinion is one of the best classes to have a smart board in. With all the interactive maps, time lines, and even virtual field trips, it will play a big part in helping me get the students to have a better visual idea of what they are learning.
Reed C.
Andrew F.
I have observed teachers utilizing this technology in their classrooms. As Elizabeth said, this works well for different types of learning styles. It is amazing, as Reed said, to watch such enthusiasm of the students when this board is used as opposed to the traditional chalkboard.
Students love new technology, especially something that is so interactive. It seems that everyone is engaged in the learning process and having fun at the same time. The kinestheic approach seems to help so many students.
For science class, virtual dissections are possible, as are virtual "tours" through the human body.A much more interesting way to learn and I believe much better learning experience than any textbook. The students can label different parts of human anatomy on the SMART board, certainly more engaging and fun than doing so on a piece of paper.
Even filling out multiple choice questions or fill in the blank questions will be more fun for students.
I am anxious to learn how to fully utilize the SMART board in my classroom. It will most definitely make me a more effecive teacher. Teaching is fun when your students are enjoying learning!
I have a smartboard in my classroom and love it! I honestly don't know how I taught without it. I have definitely seen an increase in student participation with this tool. I also agree that it allows you to meet the needs of many different learning styles. I thought it was interesting how the author noted that she had a lot of training with the Smartboard as well. I think this is crucial. There is so much you can do with it and it is really important to have administrators who understand that proper training is necessary to be able to use this tool to its fullest potential.
I agree with Andrew that the smartboard really brings the textbook to life. Teachers can no longer teach out of a textbook. This method just simply does not captivate or hold the attention of our students. The smartboard does what the textbook cannot; visually and kinesthetically engage students in the learning process.
The SMART board has really bought life into the classroom. The fact that you can take your students on a virtual field trip or conduct a virtual frog disection is amazing. Studies have shown that children learn better when they are being taught with both a visual and an audio aid, then just either one alone. The SMART board really opens up the classroom doors into a more interactive world. Currently, there are many classrooms in schools that have a SMART board that are not being utilized by the teacher. That is a problem. Teachers need to be aware of all of the current technology and how to use it in an effective manner within their classroom.
Michelle Busch
Have you found any new ideas that you might try in your classroom (of the future)? How would/do you use it in your classroom?
This article was interesting to read because I have a great deal of experience using the SMART Board, and this educator was extremely enthusiastic about it. In my classroom, I use it to engage the children in tactile learning. Not only do I use it to write on, but I have the students come up to write on it and manipulate items. It is a great tool for students to draw connections since items are easily manipulated. In the future, I hope to receive more training on SMART Technology to be able to use more features. Like Michelle said, giving the students the opportunity to use the SMART Board and connect it to the computer, gives them ownership over their learning.
SMART boards are an effective way to keep students engaged in a lesson. One important aspect of using a smart board is that a teacher could incorporate many multiple intelligences into a lesson. For example, using a clicker a student can respond to questions individually. Another example is that it includes audios and visuals to enhance learning for specific students needs. These boards also save information so it helps teachers review information that was discussed prior in the day or week. SMART boards allow for a new way of teaching that is extremely interactive. One point that Andrew pointed out was the use of a virtual tour on the SMART board instead of reading from a textbook. I agree that this will grab learners attention and they will be more engaged. I do not have that much experience using a SMART board, but I hope I will in the future.
SMART boards are an effective way to keep students engaged in a lesson. One important aspect of using a smart board is that a teacher could incorporate many multiple intelligences into a lesson. For example, using a clicker a student can respond to questions individually. Another example is that it includes audios and visuals to enhance learning for specific students needs. These boards also save information so it helps teachers review information that was discussed prior in the day or week. SMART boards allow for a new way of teaching that is extremely interactive. One point that Andrew pointed out was the use of a virtual tour on the SMART board instead of reading from a textbook. I agree that this will grab learners attention and they will be more engaged. I do not have that much experience using a SMART board, but I hope I will in the future.
-Naomi R.
Sneha Sanghavi's article "Using the SMART Board wisely in classrooms" brings up many great advantages in the use of SMART Boards. Her student's enthusiasm for learning is greatly influenced the minute the SMART Board is wheeled in. While I believe the SMART Board is a great learning tool, it still does not replace the teacher in front of the classroom. Another issue, which the author did not encounter was proper training for the technology. Without proper training, the investment in any technology has been wasted.
Naomi brought up a good point in that the SMART Board allows teachers to teach to multiple intelligences within a lesson. Its another tool at the teachers disposal to draw in students interest and participation which are essential to an effective education.
-Thomas V
I think the SMART Board is a wonderful tool that can only have a positive effect on the classroom atmosphere and student performance. As most of you mentioned, the SMART Board brings differentiation to the classroom and addresses the different learning styles of our students. I like that Marisa mentioned the "tactile" nature of this interactive white board. All too often, students sit through class after class without physical and kinesthetic involvement. By having them get up and come to the board, we will keep their bodies and minds engaged and activated. I can't wait to use this great tool in the classroom!
The Smart board might be the greatest invention for the classroom that we have seen in our lifetimes. After learning all about it's features and components in class, it was very beneficial to hear from a teacher that is currently using it. There are so many uses for the smart board and i loved hearing how it has affected her students in such a positive way. I personally have very little experience in using the smart boards however after reading up on it and hearing all of this positive feedback, I know it will be something that will get a lot of use in my classroom.
-Keith Galante
The SMART Board has become an exciting an integral part of the classroom. As a math teacher at the high school level, being without a SMART Board leaves one as a disadvantage in respect to a classroom equipped with that technology. The incorporation of web based information, tools, and interactive sites are easily implemented within a lesson via the SMART Board. The mere manipulation of the SMART Board by the students is a motivational tool that is second to none in the classroom, technologically speaking. It enables the students to become excited about what they are learning and take an active role in his or her learning. Within ten years, I believe that every classroom will have a SMART Board or at the very least some type of flex cam technology.
I agree with Michelle in the fact that it does bring animation to otherwise abstract concepts in the field of mathematics. For this reason, it enables the students to view the material in a more hands on manner. This active engagement within the lesson is critical to solidifying comprehension of the material being covered. The SMART Board technology will enable an educator to do things that he/she was unable to do years ago. The interactive boards are the new wave of the future and will only increase in prevalence within educational settings!
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