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School boards are vital in the teaching process. School boards, even though they differ in material and interaction, are crucial for any learning institution. This part discusses the different types of school boards commonly used in learning environments.
This is perhaps the first board used in learning institutions. All the boards used to write on and wipe off are called chalkboards. They were mostly made of wood and had a smooth dark surface where the writing was done. They create this surface by fixing a thin layer of slate on a wooden support. It comes with a unique feel that makes chalk slide smoothly over its surface. Even in the age of modern technology, chalkboards are still used due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of use. The biggest limitation is that they are dusty. This dust can be a concern for people with respiratory problems, and they can be messy, too.
Whiteboards, or dry-erase boards, have become the most popular in the learning institutions. Unlike the chalkboard, it has a glossy white surface. This surface is smooth, and it uses dry-erase markers. It is also easy to clean after use. The boards are versatile, plus they allow for color-coding of the information and ideas displayed. They are more affordable than the chalkboards, and they do not have any dust. But some have their downsides, like how they are easy to stain and call for frequent cleaning to keep the surface clean and smooth.
This school blackboard is like the whiteboard in its function. Typically made from a dark, glossy material, it requires special chalk to write on it. Unlike chalkboards, blackboards do not have a smooth surface. This surface makes it hard for the chalk to glide over easily. Blackboard also produces a lot of dust. Moreover, these boards are quite old and consider the most classic form of board used in classrooms. Even though technology has brought about changes, their black finish permits bright color markers on its surface.
Smart boards are gaining popularity in the learning setup. This is because they combine aspects of both the whiteboard and technology. These boards are interactive digital boards. It allows the teacher to write on the board and connect it to a computer. This feature allows for presenting information in different formats. Also, it encourages participation among learners through its use. This engagement can be achieved through quizzes and other classroom activities.
The school board design has a big role in how effective it will be in communicating the information, especially in the learning setup. This will discuss how the design affects readability, interactivity, and the way it is installed.
The material of the school board affects all that concerns the visibility, durability, and ease of writing and erasing. A whiteboard has a melamine surface. This surface is quite inexpensive but can easily become scratched and stained over time. These factors make it less ideal for long-term use. If users want something better, they should consider the surface of the whiteboards that are most commonly used in schools. They are made up of enamel or glass. This surface offers optimum smoothness for writing and can resist staining. For example, chalkboards were traditionally made of slate. Currently, they manufacture most of them from matte-finish composites. This material helps minimize glare from lighting, thus increasing clarity. Clarity in what is written is essential, especially in the learning process.
This school board size influences its usage in the classroom. A big school board can be seen from far. Thus, it offers ample space for writing. The large board is ideal for big classrooms and classes. On the other hand, small boards are ideal for small classes or private tutorials. Standard-size boards are useful for instructional purposes, as these are often the boards found in institutions of learning. Also, they are good for observation and making them effective when it comes to use. Also, the shape of the board matters. Rectangular boards are ideal for lessons that need a lot of information to be communicated. But, there are circular boards. Their use is important when engaging a lot of group interaction. The round shape promotes equal participation since there are no obvious fronts or backs.
Having permanent boards in place at the front of the classroom is effective. However, what about classes that are switched around constantly or have different sizes and needs? In these situations, having mobile or mountable boards that can be switched around is better. Fixed boards are ideal. But, in the modern classrooms where the layout keeps changing, having the option to make the boards movable transforms the class. Most modern boards are equipped with casters. This feature allows them to be repositioned if need be. Others come as flip charts, so one board can serve many classes. When it comes to installation, there are boards that require complex procedures to install. These boards can change their position, while others simply need to be affixed to the wall. The choice depends on the nature of the classroom and how it is arranged.
School boards have an important role in facilitating learning in different environments. Here are the common situations where school boards are used in the learning process.
The first common use of school boards is in the traditional classroom setting. They have been the main communication tool for a long time, even as technology has been introduced. School blackboard and whiteboards are used for instructing individual subjects. Also, they are used when explaining complex topics. Boards allow teachers to present visual information. This information helps students better understand lessons. It also helps them remember the lessons learned. Moreover, teachers can use boards for writing down ideas from students. This practice helps create a participative learning practice.
With the rise of this e-learning, the school boards have also evolved. Smart boards are ideal for online classes. They allow instructors to draw or write during live classes. Their interactivity makes distance education more appealing. They create a learning atmosphere that encourages collaboration even when the students are geographically far apart. Many of these boards have features that enable the lessons to be recorded and shared. Thus, they become effective tools for future reference.
Flip charts and portable boards are great for group activities. They give students the space to brainstorm as a group. This space offers them a platform to show their thoughts to the rest of the class. In group work, the process of using a board fosters teamwork. Teamwork is sometimes hard to achieve when students are working on individual desks. The act of writing down ideas also aids in deeper understanding.
The same kind of boards used in classrooms are also in workshops and training sessions. These boards help trainers share information with participants. If the training is hands-on, having a movable board means it can be taken to different areas while the training continues.
For the school boards to give their best performance, the users should ensure proper maintenance. The following section looks into ways to do this and other tips. Also, it is important to consider what type of board to invest in based on its features.
Each of the school boards has unique attributes. These attributes determine their suitability for the learning space and ensure they stay functional over time. For example, whiteboards need non-permanent markers. These markers are not as hard to erase as the permanent ones. Using the right kind of marker will prevent the board from getting stained. On the other hand, chalk dust can accumulate on chalkboards. It requires setting aside time for thorough cleaning between lessons. Depending on the usage frequency, some schools may decide to invest in framed or built-in chalkboard cleaners. Finally, blackboards also need special care. Most of them have a smoother texture. So, they require boards with coarse chalk. Coarse chalk reduces scratching of the surface. It also reduces the amount of dust that gets released when writing on the surface. This fact makes them ideal for classes with learners who have issues with their lungs.
Simply the right board isn't enough. The boards used for school also need adequate cleaning. For instance, whiteboards should be cleaned daily to eliminate all marks. Use a solution that is specially made for this, or use a damp cloth. This practice will help keep the surface clean for further use. Avoid cleaning the board with strong chemicals. These chemicals may fade the surface or damage it in some way. Whiteboards often come with a marker that leaves behind a residue. A dedicated whiteboard cleaner will help remove this residue. Chalk dust settles on the chalkboard throughout its use. This dust could harm the health of individuals if they suffer from respiratory issues. Thus, it is advisable to wipe the board down with a damp cloth regularly. Also, put a damp cloth on the board after every class. Install a blackboard cleaner on the board so that every time the board is used, it gets cleaned.
Learners and teachers contribute a lot to the wear and tear of school boards. To prevent more damage, avoid writing on these boards with the wrong type of marker or chalk. This act is a common mistake during lessons. This mistake causes scratches that affect the surface. It reduces the quality of the learning experience. Another important tip is to cover the boards when not in use. Most boards used in school are susceptible to dents. Wanting to keep the boards as fresh as possible will help in its durability. The board will also produce a better result when in use.
A. Select boards that can handle a lot of work. For example, a chalkboard with a reinforced surface.
Although it evaporates fumes, this makes it less safe than most.
For it to last a long time, clean it regularly.
It stains as a result of excessive usage and improper care.
