Once upon a time, teachers used to teach their classes by displaying lesson information on chalkboards or even via projectors. However, as technology has advanced by leaps and bounds, the education sector too has transformed beyond recognition. With modern technology, there are now a number of alternatives available in the market for classroom teaching, the most common among which are the interactive flat panel and interactive whiteboards, which has led to many a discussion regarding which product proves to be better in a school setting.

The reason behind the popularity of the computer technology in the classroom is simple - people have witnessed better results with the integration of technology in teaching. The demand for interactive displays, tablets, laptops, and even personal computers in classrooms has risen dramatically. Such technological implements are easily available for educational institutions, but choosing between whether you want the interactive flat panel or whiteboard for your classroom is where the problem lies.

Interactive Whiteboards are More Complicated

Unlike any of the traditional whiteboards, these interactive boards are much more than a simple blank surface. They are in fact a combination of an overhead projector and a computer or laptop. The computer device associated with the whiteboard is used to project images and information on to the screen, to offer easy presentation and instruction methods. Interactive whiteboards offer the viewers and presenters the opportunity to participate in the presentation. They can manually change and move the information that the board is displaying. However, this interactive function of the whiteboards is not put into much use, as most people just prefer to use them for presentations.

The More Streamlined Function of the Interactive Flat Panel

As compared to the interactive whiteboards, the interactive flat panel just seems to be more advanced as there are no projectors needed. The device that is central to the interactive flat panel is a computer display that has built-in speakers. In this form of display also, both the instructor and the pupils are allowed to participate in the presentation as they can manipulate the images and information displayed on the panel in a quick and smooth interaction, either manually or by using a magnetic stylus. While these flat panels are deemed to be more expensive than the whiteboards, they are still much more popular in the field of education.

Why Opt for Interactive Flat Panels over Whiteboards

Using an interactive flat panel is very easy and intuitive, because it is just like an oversized tablet or iPad. Its display is also much better; it is characterized by rich and vibrant colours along with sharp and clear images that can be seem from all viewing angles. Plus, one of the major advantages is the fact that all the apps and programs that are available on app stores are available for interactive flat panels as well, which is like a readymade repertoire of information that is available to the teachers.

Then there is the fact that an interactive flat panel has a single all-inclusive system, while the whiteboard also comes with an overhead projector, a speaker system, and a computer device. This means that it is much easier to install the flat panels, as compared to the whiteboards. The interactive panel does not require regular replacement of filters and bulbs as there is no projector, and a single switch for power and a cable for internet access are sufficient

While both the interactive whiteboards and the interactive flat panels will be great additions to your institute, interactive flat panels make a much stronger case in helping empower an interactive way of education.