Interactive Display Boards Reach Beyond the Classroom
From tablets to interactive white boards, technologies that were originally designed for business are increasingly being used in education. In theory, our educators would love to integrate all the latest technology into their learning environments to stay ahead of the curve and competitive. But of course, some technology makes more sense than others.
Interactive display boards, sometimes called smart boards, can be counted among existing technology that is exploding in education. As more and more schools adopt interactive boards, the applications seem unlimited.
Caldwell University in Caldwell, N.J. recently installed 35 Sharp AQUOS BOARD interactive display systems throughout campus. Displays are found in classrooms, the library, and the athletics department, as well as business and administration offices. An additional 30 Sharp displays are being used as digital signage throughout campus. Caldwell University is an excellent example of how both traditional and non-traditional uses of interactive display systems work in education.
Teachers
More than anything, interactive displays foster collaboration in the classroom, connecting instructors with students on a new level. Teachers are able to provide an interactive learning experience that appeals to all types of learners — visual, auditory, and kinesthetic. Caldwell professors, like many educators, understood the “why” behind adopting these displays and continue to invent ways to utilize the AQUOS BOARD in their classrooms. Although some educators may inevitably wonder just how to integrate displays into lesson plans, those questions don’t seem to last long.
Dan O'Hagan, Chief Information Officer at Caldwell University, says, "The AQUOS BOARD displays are dramatically improving our educational experience and business productivity on campus. The new nursing lab has enhanced the university's nursing program, and this is evidenced by strong interest and enrollment in the program. The Sharp digital display technology has had a lot to do with the program’s success."
Students
From group projects to student government, students take full advantage of interactive display systems when available. "The boards are really helpful for group projects, group studying, anything where a group is involved because you don't have to crowd around one little screen," says Caldwell University student Kristin Kelley, Class of 2016. "One big board allows people to interact on the touch screen, through individual iPads and other personal devices."
Athletics
Reviewing competitive reels and strategizing plays via interactive displays has been a boost for Caldwell coaches. Athletes can study plays, even using a traditional X-O strategy. Even the fans aren't left out…The mobile AQUOS BOARD is used as a tailgating display for large groups to watch away games together in the athletic facility.
Business
Interactive display boards were designed to boost business collaboration and productivity, so it's no surprise that Caldwell University is enjoying those same benefits. Several mobile boards make it possible to access the technology across departments. From the University President's office and board meetings to conferences and the distance learning centers, Sharp's AQUOS BOARDs are streamlining processes and encouraging engagement from everyone at Caldwell.
As the Caldwell University program illustrates, when educators adopt technology into their curriculum, the impact reaches far beyond the classroom. For a better understanding of how your SE Michigan education system would benefit from Sharp AQUOS BOARDs, contact Dan Heimler at University Office Technologies here or call (734) 434-5900.
The AQUOS BOARD displays are dramatically improving our educational experience and business productivity on campus. The new nursing lab has enhanced the university's nursing program, and this is evidenced by strong interest and enrollment in the program. The Sharp digital display technology has had a lot to do with the program's success.
