Definition of a Whiteboard

The term "whiteboard" has different meanings.

The term "whiteboard" can describe the low-tech invention of a board with a glossy white surface that is written on with special markers, much like a blackboard is written on with chalk. This type of whiteboard has replaced the traditional chalkboard in many classrooms. The higher-tech version is a whiteboard that connects to a computer, allowing the user to interact with the board. An Internet whiteboard is an online interactive space in the virtual world. All three types of whiteboards have had an effect on the way information is presented.

Low-tech Whiteboard

Like a blackboard, the whiteboard can be written on and the writing can be erased. This type of whiteboard comes in all sizes. Smaller boards can fit easily into student desks, while larger whiteboards can be mounted on an office or classroom wall. Instead of using chalk, the user writes with dry-erase markers specifically made for the whiteboard surface. Other types of markers may not write as well, erase easily and can damage the writing surface of the whiteboard. Dry-erase markers have replaced chalk, which generated dust and could cause problems with breathing and allergies. Dry-erase markers are not without drawbacks. They emit an odor that disturbs some people.

Interactive Whiteboards

An interactive whiteboard not only has a surface to write on using dry-erase markers, but users can interact with the whiteboard simply by touching the screen. The interactive whiteboard needs specific software, a computer and a digital projector to make the interaction happen. Once all components are in place, the interaction with the whiteboard can begin. Examples of different ways to interact with the whiteboard include capturing notes, video or other images and using the Internet (if computer has Internet access).

Internet Whiteboards

Internet whiteboards can be considered a tool for chatting as well as drawing. Online participants in the Internet whiteboard session are able to draw and write on the board and see what others are writing and drawing on the board. All communication is done on the screen of the user's computer, with an open window of the application. Copying and pasting images from other applications, such as Microsoft Word, make this application versatile and convenient. Common chatting applications, such as MSN Messenger and Yahoo Messenger, have the whiteboard capability built into the application.

Commonalities of all Three

All three types of whiteboards allow the user to show previously prepared information to more than one person. The whiteboards can be used as a surface to show non-interactive media. Finally, whether the information is written or recorded, the whiteboard can be used to capture the contributions of the participants in the forum.

Cost of Whiteboards.

Internet whiteboards are included in free applications such as Yahoo Messenger or MSN Messenger. Dry-erase white boards start in price at a few dollars, with the cost increasing as the size increases. Interactive whiteboards are the most expensive, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the brand, accessories and functions.

References

• Cambridge Dictionary: What is a Whiteboard?
• Northern Arizona University: Assistive Technology
• University of Michigan: Internet Whiteboard

Resources

• Lakeshore Learning Materials: Cost of Dry Earase Boards
• Electronic Whiteboard Warehouse: Cost of Interactive Whiteboards