Smart Board Tutorial
Smartboards can be an excellent tool in a classroom. This tutorial is intended to help you explore the basics with regard to using a Smartboard. As you progress through the tutorial keep in mind that technology is only a tool. It is the teacher who determines how effective this tool is in the classroom. When a teacher combines technology like a Smartboard with sound instructional practices that engage students the potential for learning grows. As you progress through the unit, be sure to contact your on-line mentor to share your really neat ideas or to help get answers to questions.
In order to complete this unit, you will need Smartboard Software loaded onto your computer. The building SysOp can assist you with this. If you do not know who your SysOp is, see one of your building administrators. They can direct you to the correct person. In addition to loading the software on your classroom computer, the software is available to download for use at home. If you download the software for home use, be sure to read the license agreement.
The Basics
To familiarize yourself with the basic hardware that makes up a smartboard, follow the link below to a pdf document.
Print out the document below to use a reference while you are working with your Smartboard. It will help you identify the buttons available to you at startup.
PDF Smartboard Startup Buttons
Use the link below to open the pdf document explaining some basic functions of Smartboards.
There is also a link with detailed instructions regarding orienting your smartboard. Try out the various tools and experiment, but most of all, have fun!
Check out this short video. It provides some useful information about your Smartboard.
Exploring Smartboards
Explore The tool bar below. A similar toolbar will appear when you are working on a smartboard, or when you are working with smartboard software.
Keep in mind that while you can plan with a Smartboard, you can also use smartboard software - without a smartboard attached - to create a lesson that you will later use with a smartboard.
The
Arrows next to items
Open drop down menu.
Explore
these selections.
What are a few things that you find?
Below are two links that will provide more information about the tools you have available to you.
To help you try out your new skills, open the document below. you may want to print it out. Complete each step. If you have any problems, it is okay to review the material you've studied, ask a colleague or e-mail your mentor. Remember the goal is to improve your skills.
When you have completed this activity, e-mail your Smartboard mentor and share some of the things that you have learned. You may also want to share some of the uses you think this will have in your classroom. If there was something that you found particularly easy or difficult, be sure to share that too.