Whether you’re teaching in a new classroom this year, or back to familiar surroundings, it’s a good idea to spend some time preparing your ActivPanel to make sure it’s ready to support dynamic and engaging learning experiences.
This blog post is the second instalment in our ActivPanel mini-series, and if you’re not sure which ActivPanel you’re using, it’s worth taking the time to read the first part which will help you to identify your front-of-class device.
Four steps to ActivPanel success
ActivPanels are often shared by a number of teachers, which means user accounts and files can build up over time. To make sure your ActivPanel has everything you need to get started in the new term, we’re going to take you through four simple steps for an effective tidy-up.
Note: your school may already have procedures in place for ActivPanel management, so it’s always worth checking with school leadership or the IT department before making any changes.
1. Backup all files
Before you start removing any files, you should make a backup in case any documents are needed at a later date. You can store files on a USB drive, external hard drive, or even in a cloud account so that they can be accessed remotely.
To backup files from the ActivPanel, look for the ‘Files’ app (ActivPanel Elements Series) or ‘Explorer’ app (ActivPanel 4 to ActivPanel 6), and copy and paste any files you’d like to keep to your chosen location. The ActivPanel is compatible with most common cloud storage apps, and you can choose to copy your files to these services through the file explorer app.
2. Clean up the ActivPanel
To make space on the ActivPanel, you can now clean up any files or user accounts that are no longer needed. The best way to do this is to ask each user to remove any files they don’t need, but you can also complete a Full Factory Reset for a comprehensive tidy-up.
We suggest looking at each user account and its associated internet accounts, apps and services. Removing these is usually a straightforward process, but can vary depending on your ActivPanel model. For support, click here.
3. Check for updates
Most ActivPanels have a Promethean Android device installed, which features an ‘Update’ app enabling you to download free software updates and new features directly to the ActivPanel over the air. You should visit this app regularly to check for updates, and the start of a new school year is a great time to do so.
4. Set up your account and preferences
Now, you’re ready to personalize your ActivPanel. If you’re using a new ActivPanel, create a user account with a secure PIN or password, and make sure to note it down somewhere safe.
Log into the Cloud account and download the apps that you use regularly. This is also a good opportunity to organise your Locker so that you can find your favourite apps and resources quickly. Open the Screen Share or ActivCast app and give your ActivPanel a unique and recognisable name to make it easier for your students to mirror their devices.
If your ActivPanel is an Elements Series Titanium or Cobalt model, you can also choose to configure the touch and stylus experience to perfect your ActivPanel.
If you’ve followed these four steps, your ActivPanel should be ready to go for the new term. In the third and final instalment in this ActivPanel series, we’ll be focusing on some practical advice for delivering lessons using the ActivPanel – sign up to receive Resource Hub updates to make sure you’re among the first to read it!