As you have probably noticed, a Promethean Interactive Whiteboard has been installed within the 4th floor conference room.  If you didn’t know…SURPRISE!  I’m sure everyone has many questions about the operation and integration of the board within classroom environments.  For starters, I’ve highlighted a few key points that you need to know about Promethean Interactive Whiteboards and LCPS.  There will surely be more posts forthcoming on this technology.
 
The Technology 

Smartboard vs. Promethean Interactive Whiteboards – only one major difference exists between these two boards.   Smartboard technology includes a touch sensitive environment within the board.  This means that a finger or other tangible objects can be used to interact with the board.  Promethean boards rely on a specialized pen or wand in order to interact with the board.  There are two pens housed on each end of the Promethean board in the conference room.  NOTE:  The projector can ONLY be turned on using the supplied remote which will be affixed to the back of the board with velcro.
Installation Base Promethean Boards are available in full sized classrooms within high schools.  Beginning this summer, installation of the boards will begin for all full sized classrooms within middle schools.  Currently, select elementary schools use Smartboard Interactive Whiteboards  and pending budget approval will eventually be outfitted with Promethean boards.
Software Activprimary or Activstudio lesson development software is available on all instructional machines within Promethean schools.  This software allows for the creation and the archival of lessons.  Best of all, the software is available to teachers to check out and install on home PC’s alllowing complete flexibility in designing activities outside of the classroom.  Licensing associated with the software allows for all administrative laptops & PC’s belonging to 4th floor staff to receive the installation.  If you would like the software installed please open a ticket using the AIT trouble call system.
Professional Development
 All TRT’s have completed a multi-day professional training in the use and integration of Promethean products.  All instructional staff within schools are required to attend training provided by the TRT during contract hours.  Training for 4th floor Admin staff is forthcoming!
Support An extensive amount of support can be found by visiting http://www.prometheanworld.com/us/.  Video showcases, case studies, sample lessons, and a variety of support mechanisms can found within this site.  In addition, Promethean Planet is a free resource available to all users of Promethean products for sharing ideas, templates, and a variety of educational interactive whiteboard activities
Additional Tools Promethean Activotes can also be purchased for use with the Interactive Whiteboards.  Activote is Promethean’s integrated personal response system that is designed to encourage student participation and enhance learning.  A classroom set of Activotes can be acquired for free by principals who choose to participate in the Loudoun VITAL program.