The benefits of technology in the classroom are manifold, but it’s not always easy to decide which solutions will be the best fit – and sometimes, it’s a case of whether new investments can be justified from a budgetary perspective.
When looking at new edtech purchases, research can only take you so far. Once a shortlist of options has been created, getting hands-on with new technologies is one of the best ways to make an informed decision. In this blog we’ll be exploring the benefits of edtech demonstrations, whether it’s lecture tools or iPads in the classroom.
Once you’ve booked a demonstration, try to encourage as many staff as possible to attend – or at least ensure that there are representatives of each group (think about teachers, IT managers, school leadership and more). This is the best way to get a representative opinion from all parties, and here are a few things to consider:
- See how it fits the learning space – this is usually more relevant to larger solutions like interactive displays, but there could be storage or placement implications for smaller devices too. Think about where the technology would fit within the classroom, whether it would be easy for all students to see or access, and how it fits with other existing solutions.
- Gather different perspectives – teachers, IT staff and school leadership figures are likely to have slightly different priorities or requirements, so it’s important to gather as many opinions as possible. In relation to classroom placement, for example, teachers might think about how it will be used in lessons whereas IT staff might flag concerns around placement for internet connectivity or power access. Thinking about the finer details at this stage can make a big difference further along.
- Ask specific questions – an edtech demonstration is a chance to access expert information and advice on a specific edtech solution, so ask as many questions as you can! During the demonstration, staff might think up new questions – and just like a student in the classroom, there’s no such thing as a silly question. Encourage attendees to ask any and all questions, no matter how big or small.
- Think about compatibility and infrastructure – you may have factored this into initial research, but it’s worth asking your presenter to touch on compatibility with existing devices during the demonstration. You might be able to see specific examples, or learn about innovative activities made possible by connecting devices.
To make it easier for schools to learn more about the ActivPanel Elements Series through a bespoke demonstration, Promethean is giving schools the opportunity to choose between a flexible online session or a safe on-site demo. Both are hosted by a Promethean expert, and give attendees the chance to ask any questions they may have during a session tailored to the school’s requirements.
To book your bespoke ActivPanel demonstration, visit: www.PrometheanWorld.com/au/how-to-buy/request-a-demo/