During class today, I went on Slate and read an article about the effect whiteboards and blackboards have on the environment. When I first read the article, I was surprised to see that the author hadn't researched Smart Boards at all. I do realize that not all schools can afford Smart Boards, but in the long run it will save money by reducing the waste of thrown away chalk/markers.
The issue of environmental waste starts with the chalk and markers. Nina Shen Rastogi (author) states that markers require petroleum, which is an nonrenewable source. In addition, when a marker is unusable, it is thrown away into a trash can. She also states that chalk "can theoretically be a very low-waste product." With a Smart Board, you don't need to throw anything away, and there is no residue left after erasing or writing, like chalk and dry-erase markers.
Another argument towards chalk is that is it much cheaper than dry-erase pens, and the money save could be put towards other things, like classroom amenities. Although Smart Board are quite expensive, like I stated earlier in the long run it will save you money.
I think Smart Board should advertise and give out facts and figures to the principals and school boards of surrounding areas, to make them more aware of the greener product. The one problem I can think of with Smart Board is if teachers don't know how to use the product. However, there are Smart Board seminars that teach the teachers how to use the board, and the exciting new features that come with it. I believe Smart Boards are the future and the solution to the problem of new environmentally friendly classroom aides.
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I definitely agree with you! Smartboards are much more environmentally friendly than dry erase boards or chalk boards. They are also more fun to play with, and don't leave a mess! Smartboard should definitely try to advertise more. I think that in the long run, schools should invest in smartboards because they'll save money.
ReplyDeleteIt's wierd to think that other schools can't afford smartboards like ours can, and I definately had no idea that whiteboards and chalkboards were bad for the environment!
ReplyDeleteFunny how our school can afford smartboards but we had a paper shortage. :) Smartboards are pretty much amazing though! Oh, and I like your title. It confused me before I read your post. :)
ReplyDeleteI never really thought about black/white/smart boards from an environmental standpoint. I'm really glad our school can afford them becuase they do seem to be the environmentally friendly choice.
ReplyDeleteI liked your title too, nice play on the colors!