Infrared Pens
Both manual and nib switch versions are now
available.
The infrared pen in combination with a wiimote, bluetooth connectivity and the free software from Boon Jin enables many surfaces to become interactive. For a total of less than £50 you can have an interactive whiteboard.
The nib switch version of the infrared pen allows you to write on a surface using a normal writing style whilst the manual switch infrared pen allows you to interact with surfaces without making contact - useful for screens where scratching might otherwise occur.
Interactive Whiteboards
In 2003 I installed an interactive whiteboard in my classroom and what a difference did it make to my teaching. Instead of endless worksheets and explanations in what felt like 20 different languages I was demonstrating...and then I was watching as they planned and took over.
Two years ago the college installed whiteboards in every classroom and at >£1000 per board and £50 per pen it was quite an investment. So when I saw Johnny Chung Lee's video on making an interactive whiteboard for $50 I was interested! A bit of research and practice (and moaning from my nieces as I nicked the wiimote - temporarily) I found that it is more than just a theoretical possibility. The hardest part was getting the infrared pen (I started off using my TV remote but that just led to more moaning, especially during X-Factor)
Check out what's in Store
Obviously there is the infrared pen. This was a stumbling block for me but with the assistance of our technical Don we have an infrared pen that works with the wiimote and although looks a little wierd isn't too bad, and is, in our opinion, better than most.
The next problem is the bluetooth connectivity, not all bluetooth adapters - or their software - allow connection to the wiimote so I tracked down a supplier whose dongle and software I have tested.
The wiimote itself. Thanks to Nintendo's mass production this nifty bit of kit has all of the technical wizardry to allow for an interactive experience at a fraction of the traditional whiteboards cost. It also means you can move easily from one room/building/country to another without a truck to carry the whiteboard itself.
The software, smoothboard and .NET framework, both freely downloadable from their respective sites are offered on a USB flash drive for convenience.
