Technology Services

SMARTBoards at a Glance

SMARTBoards At-a-Glance  (K-12)

Overview

A SMARTBoard is an interactive whiteboard when, combined with a projector and a computer, can be used to interact with the curriculum. SMARTBoards are used to engage students, present digital content, and support differentiation for both visual and tactile learners. The power of the SMARTBoard is realized through SMARTNotebook software which allows the teacher to organize content, structure lessons, and create interesting and interactive activities in any content area. While often integrated with Math, Science, and Social Studies Curriculum, Elmbrook teachers across the K-12 system have identified opportunities to integrate SMARTBoard use into all content areas and even co-curricular activities. Because of its wide-ranging impact on student learning, the District began a six-year plan to integrate SMARTBoards into all K-12 classrooms. With funding from the district technology, building unit, PTO, and Elmbrook Foundation resources, as well as the possibility of High School referendum dollars, the goal of one in every classroom may be attained in as little as four years.

Technology Plan Goal Addressed

• Goal #1: Integrate Technology with Student Learning Initiatives
• Goal #2: Support Continuous Improvement through the Development or Acquisition of New Applications
• Goal #3: Maintain System Integrity

SMARTBoard Acquisition Plan (includes Projector, SMARTBoard, Cables, Ceiling Mounts)

Goals

The success of this initiative will be determined not only by access to the hardware and consistent use, but also in providing adequate training and support resources, as well as the sharing of SMARTNotebook files across the district. In addition, the scope of the project requires a close working relationship with SMART Technologies (Company) to include certification for some Elmbrook Teaching staff as certified trainers and direct access to corporate resources for future product development and testing. These indicators are encompassed in the following goals:

• Develop a year-round SMART Academy offering for-credit or CEU training opportunities for K-12 staff (Implemented Summer '09)
• Certification of at least 12 staff members representing various disciplines and grade levels. (Summer '08 & '09)
• Collegial Study opportunities to collaborate with other teachers on the integration of the SMARTBoard (Fall '08 and Ongoing)
• Guaranteed one-day of training for all staff with SMARTBoards installed in their classrooms (Fall '08)
• Develop a web-based application to share SMARTNotebook files across the district that is searchable and organized by grade and content area (Fall '08)

Resources Needed

• Trained integrators
• Lead Teachers to model use and develop SMARTNotebook content
• SMART Certified Teachers
• Trained and District-certfied (in SMARTBoard use) Substitute Teachers
• Continued financial support from District, Unit, PTO, EEF, other Sources

Primary Contact(s)

Chris Thompson, x1163 & Building Integrator

Related Initiatives

Tablet Laptops

Key Talking Points

• SMARTBoards promote interactive learning and teaching at all grade levels and across all content areas
• With organized content (lessons, activities, materials) that can be shared across the district, SMARTBoards support collaboration across the district
• Through certification, Academy offerings, and in-building training opportunities, the integration of the SMARTBoard into every classroom will succeed