Representatives from Digital Networks Group presented a new high tech whiteboard to PCC teachers and administrators April 3 in the Shatford Library.
Product demo specialist Robbie Sabako led the demonstration, explaining the benefits and features of the ENO Interactive Teaching board.
The new technology is being considered as part of the SMART 18 initiative that aims to improve the technology in classrooms on campus.
The board, manufactured by Polyvision, is an interactive learning board, incorporating multiple technologies and functions into one moveable base unit.
One useful feature is the projector being mounted above the screen. The short throw projector may make the ceiling mounted projector a thing of the past, and will put an end to “glare from the projector when a teacher looks back at their students,” according to Sabako.
The ceramic and steel-based projector screen also serves as a standard white board. It can also be digitally written on with a built-in pen that can change the color and size of the digital ink by touching a magnetic tool strip on the board.
The screen material is also essentially tag-proof. Sabako demonstrated this by writing on the screen with a permanent marker, then wiping it off without a blemish remaining.
Matt Camara from the Electronic Services department is excited by the fact that the board will be integrated into their system. “Many of the repair and maintenance issues can be done without having to go to the classroom. It’ll make the turn around time on our service calls much faster.”
Jim Arnwine, Dean of Performing and Communication Arts, recognizes the need to improve technology to stay at the forefront of education. “New faculty expect this [level of technology], and are surprised when we don’t.”
Adopting the new technology is one aspect of the problem. “The hardest part is to train people to use technology in their everyday lives,” said Sabako, “You don’t have to learn any software. The ease of use is incredible.”
- EDITORIAL: Apologize about the real problem - April 23, 2014
- STATEMENT: District apologizes to Oscar winning alum - April 21, 2014
- EDITORIAL: The Forgotten Students - March 26, 2014