News

Educators get new learning tool with interactive whiteboard

June 2, 2004

CALGARY, Canada -- Smart Technologies Inc. has a new mobile, easy-to-use Rear ProjectionSmart Board 2000i interactive whiteboard to meet the needs of computer-using educators.

Developed with educators' input, the 2000i combines the benefits of a 66-inch diagonal, shadow-free, touch-sensitive display with a height-adjustable design, according to a news release.

With an easy-to-turn handle, teachers can lower the screen from teaching height to one that is easily accessible for students of all ages, including those with special needs. With a grant from the Smarter Kids Foundation, qualifying educational institutions in North America can purchase the 2000i for $9,749.

The 2000i includes an integrated projector with an extended-life lamp as well as free software upgrades, further lowering the total cost of ownership, the release said.

With Smart Board software, teachers can access, control or write on top of any computer application, including Internet resources and CD ROMs, and save these notes to a single file. Users simply pick up a stylus from the Smart Pen Tray and write over the application in electronic ink using either their finger or the stylus. No special tools or training are required to operate the 2000i.

The Rear Projection Smart Board 2000i interactive whiteboard will start shipping August 2003. The suggested list price is $12,999. Educational institutions in North America may qualify for a grant worth 25 percent of the suggested list price through the Smarter Kids Foundation, the release said.