New technologies began their offensive in such a seemingly conservative field as training. Increasingly, in various educational institutions you can see the technique, which is the embodiment of innovative technologies. One such innovation is the interactive whiteboard. It is a complex that consists of a large touchpad, projector and computer. The screen - the touch panel - displays information from the computer desktop using the projector.
By the way the projector is positioned, there are direct and rear projection settings. The simplest are straightforward, but they have several disadvantages: when using them, you have to stand sideways to the screen, choosing a position so as not to block the
light flux from the projector. The interactive rear projection board is free from such drawbacks, and the light from the projector does not interfere with the lecturer (teacher), but the disadvantage of such a system is its high price.
Today there are stationary or mobile models of these devices, but their weight can not be called small (about 200 kilograms, with the weight of an ordinary board in the region of 40 kg).
By the method of determining the position of the marker, an interactive whiteboard can be:
- infrared;
- ultrasound;
- optical;
- sensory resistive;
- electromagnetic.
Ultrasonic and infrared technology works only with a specific marker, which when in contact with the board emits signals (ultrasonic or infrared), which are determined by the detector frames of the board. Based on these signals, the location of the marker is calculated.
The optical method of determination allows you to work with any object: infrared sensors "see" what is brought close to the surface of the board, determining the coordinates that are transmitted to the computer.
Also, touch resistive technology allows you to work with any subject. Screens of this type consist of two layers, between which there are special sensors. When pressed, the sensors are triggered and determine the coordinates of the touch.
Electromagnetic technology allows you to work only with a special marker, the position of which is determined by surface sensors.
Each of these technologies has its
advantages and disadvantages. To choose the right type of board, you need to decide on its main functions. If you need to write on this board not only off, but also edit the materials displayed on the screen, then you should buy an electromagnetic board that has a hard coating. By the way, they allow you to connect various
graphic programs and editors, for example, the PAINT program. An important role is played by the availability of instructions in Russian, ease of operation, the availability of repair points or service (warranty) workshops in your city.
Any interactive whiteboard is equipped with software. But its volume can be very different: some contain only basic utilities, others may have libraries, training and development programs, encyclopedias, ready-made lessons, etc. Such an interactive whiteboard at a school or institute will become an indispensable assistant. Working with an interactive whiteboard should be comfortable and convenient. Information on all the additional features of various models can be obtained on the official websites of manufacturers.