Difference Between Copyboards and Interactive Whiteboards

A number of teachers may not be aware of the benefits of using a Smart Board in the classroom as a teaching tool. While the traditional white board already has everyone’s attention, the electronic device is a new technology that is slowly gaining popularity due to its interactive power. The main difference between Interactive Projector systems and conventional "smart" boards lies with the board. With an Interactive Projector, there is no board. With an Interactive Projector system (like Epson Brightlink and SMART Lightraise), the actual writing surface is the wall (or whatever surface is projected upon). Interactive Projectors replace the actual board with electronic pens or styluses that send wireless signals to the projector. The projector, in turn, receives and sends those signals to the computer, usually via USB cable. Actually, removing another piece of hardware- the physical "board" from the mix has several advantages. First, the ability to remove a piece of hardware, especially one as significant as a touch-sensitive electronic whiteboard, while maintaining the same functionality, is always a good thing. Taking the actual board out of the picture eliminates issues with board-PC connectivity, orienting, dead spots, etc. It also eliminates the requirement to find a suitable place for, and mount the physical board. With an Interactive Projector, any firm surface that can be projected upon can be used for the writing surface. A lot of new software is available for free on the internet that can be easily integrated. There are many forums and websites that aim to help teachers by providing Smart Board ideas and activities. Explore these for more ideas. The Smart Board is tomorrow’s technology and is bound to change the look of classrooms forever. Using smart boards in the classroom can help one stay ahead with technology that could make the education process simpler and perhaps even more productive.