Instructional Technology Committee

December 3, 2007

ESC, Room 351

8:00-1:30 p.m.

Minutes

Committee Members: Hilly Curda, Morris Mallory, April Johns, Betsy O'Connell, Melanie Meidel, Colleen White, Renee Zabel, Manuel Martinez, Janine Shelley

The Instructional Technology Committee met, Monday, December 3, 8:00-1:30 to review and recommend as a District standard an interactive whiteboard and projection system, plus peripherals.

The ITC reviewed products from two companies: Smart Technologies and Promethean. The two companies were selected based on available product feature sets that would support efficient installation and effective use for instruction.

The desired features included:

•  All-in-one whiteboard projection system (installs with wall bracket and does not require additional wiring and ceiling mounting)

•  Integrated audio system

•  Central control of other input devices (e.g. CD, video, document camera)

•  Compatible rapid response system

•  Wireless tablet devices (to allow teacher movement within the classroom)

•  Educational software package

•  Professional development support

The committee unanimously selected Smart Technologies interactive whiteboard based on the following criteria:

•  Board navigation: touch screen instead of pen input device (allows universal access)

•  Ease of use

•  Preferred rapid response system

•  Compatibility with other input devices

•  Available audio system

•  Company support

The ITC recommended that when current classroom televisions are replaced, that digital projection systems, interactive whiteboards, audio systems, wireless tablet, and rapid response systems to enable teachers to create a more engaging classroom be considered as classroom presentation systems.

The ITC would like to assist in defining processes for rolling out classroom presentation systems in the district.