Emerging Technologies that Promise to Enhance Usability of the Interactive Whiteboard

Posted: Aug. 05th, 2015

The interactive whiteboard was implemented in most learning institutions during the 90’s as a welcome replacement to the chalkboard. Since then, the interactive whiteboard has impacted learning in many positive ways, chiefly by enabling an interactive environment where students can learn better. The interactive boards have been improving and evolving over for over twenty years, with many boards technologically advanced than older models in the 90’s.
interactive whiteboard
Whiteboards are set to evolve even further, with new technologies emerging on a regular basis. These technologies will likely improve the way the interactive whiteboard in the classroom is used to impart knowledge among the next generation. This article looks at three of these technologies and how they are positioned to change the game in the classroom.


1. Touch Screen Technology
While touch screens are not new to whiteboards and other devices, in general, the technology has been in a constant state of development since it was first used. Manufacturing companies are constantly coming up with bigger, high-quality screens that integrate the latest software developments for their devices. For instance, TapSense is a useful piece of technology that allows users to use different types of gestures to manipulate a device, which makes it more intuitive to use.


A touch screen whiteboard that does not use projectors, computers or pens will offer more convenience and interactivity for users. This all-in-one setup could help advance the rate at which the interactive whiteboard gets to its next phase.


2. HTML5 
One of the main deterrents for implementing a wide variety of content for interactive whiteboards is the use of proprietary software for running applications and programs. Publishers often need to reformat their content to suit different formats that come with interactive whiteboards. Recent developments in web design and development languages, particularly HTML, hold promise for the future of the interactive whiteboard. HTML5, the latest HTML version, promises to help in the standardization of formats, which will go a long way in making content creation a bit easier for publishers. HTML5 allows for more functionality, animation, interactivity, and engagement compared with its predecessors. Most importantly, HTML5 voids the need for third party programs or whiteboard-bound software to create engaging content. With HTML, it will be possible to view the same content across mobile, desktop, and interactive whiteboard platforms.


3. Motion Sensing 
Interactive whiteboards primarily use the screen as the source of input. The screen receives signals from a finger or stylus pen and registers it as input. Futuristic interactive whiteboards could integrate a camera as a secondary source of input, closely resembling Microsoft’s Kinect technology that could be used as a motion detector to drive student engagement and interactivity in the classroom. Additionally, the feature could be used for video conferencing with other institutions or different classes within the same institution.


As a plus, this technology could enable students to interact from the comfort of their desks for a more personalized approach to learning. With motion sensing, the interactive whiteboard can become a monumental piece of technology in the classroom driving collaboration and innovation in the classroom. Motion sensing technology could completely revolutionize the learning process by encouraging a more visual aspect of learning.


Technology is akin to evolution; always adapting and morphing into more advanced forms. Therefore, the interactive whiteboard industry is set for monumental changes, especially with the application of lean management practices at the factory and design levels to reduce production costs for the benefit of consumers.





Previous:Tips and Best Practices for Using an Interactive Whiteboard: Part One

Next:Resistive Vs Capacitive Interactive Whiteboards