In today’s educational landscape, integration of technology is inevitable. It helps to make the students more tech-friendly and keep them ahead of the competition. It also ensures an updated education and fosters their possibilities.
Educational institutes are rapidly incorporating interactive flat panels (IFPs) into classrooms for this. Made with the latest technology, these panels are changing traditional education. Traditionally, it was more like one-way traffic. These interactive panels ensure greater engagement, better interaction, and enhanced education quality. In a nutshell, they are shaping education for betterment.
Interactive flat panels (IFPs) have revolutionised the educational space. Still, selecting it for your school is not easy. The market has several options, and none of them are cheap. To get the best IFP, consider the different sides of an interactive flat panel.
If you are curious about what to consider, this blog is for you. In today’s blog, we will share tips on how to choose the right interactive panel for your school.
Let’s start!
Understanding Interactive Flat Panels
Before discussing the various aspects of interactive flat panels (IFPs), you must understand the technology.
The IFP is also an interactive flat panel display and a touch-sensitive board. It helps display interactive content, fostering real-time practice with immediate feedback. The prompt feedback technology and interactive features have made it popular in schools. IFPs make presentations or other interactive works more effortlessly than ever.
• Key Features of Interactive Flat Panels
Interactive flat panels are helping the students engage more with the lessons. They remove the boredom of old teaching patterns and make everything convenient. However, how does the panel do this? It uses its innovative features to connect with the students. Panels allow the learners to control the process and provide a sense of accomplishment.
To understand it better, you must know its key features first. Some of its key features are-
1. Touch Sensitive Capabilities
An interactive flat panel display comes with touch sensitivity and gesture capability, undoubtedly one of its best features. This feature helps users annotate, highlight, move objects, and write effortlessly. Additionally, this feature helps to enjoy no lag in response.
2. Cloud-based Teaching
Interactive flat panels are elevating the educational approach and experience. For this, the panels come with a cloud-based teaching facility. It helps the educator save, download, and share the learning material anytime. Now, students can access these files from anywhere.
3. Multi-touch Facility
Multi-touch support is one of the crucial features of IFPs. Teachers and students can use the panel collaboratively. Multi-touch support ensures the display feels natural, engaging, responsive, and seamless.
4. Collaboration and Interactive Learning
The student-centric classroom is another winning feature of IFPs. Interactive panels are efficient for collaborating with different users. It contributes to ideal educator-learner communication. With this feature, multiple users can share and compare their presentations. Up to four desktops can be shared in some of the latest panels.
These key features contribute to sharing resources easily and boosting educational convenience. Take note that these are basic key features. Many panels come with high-end features, including voice recognition, endless canvas or pages, etc., to add more advantages to the daily classroom.
• The Benefits of Interactive Flat Panels
If you are stuck on the ‘Interactive whiteboard vs. Interactive flat panel’ debate, you must look at the benefits of interactive flat panels. The interactive flat panels seamlessly engage various educational software/learning platforms. Naturally, teachers can make more valuable and informative study lessons with it.
The animated lessons and real-time collaboration engage students in practice sessions. Hands-on learning helps learners to remember the lessons better than traditional methods. However, are the benefits limited to it only? No, there are plenty of benefits, and some of them are-
1. Comprehensive Learning Experience
Interactive panels allow access to various education applications and digital books. It also offers animated video lessons, a book library, and interactive lessons with textbooks for teaching purposes. The wide range of resources helps an educator gather required information from various sources and create comprehensive study materials. The diverse information also allows a student to stay ahead of the competition.
2. Better Engagement
The interactive panels for education focus on using interactive content in classrooms. It boosts student engagement in the class. Naturally, the students collaborate on projects and share ideas. Overall, it enhances their understanding and fulfils the education system’s aim.
3. Boost Diversity in Class
We live in a global era, and classrooms should meet international standards. Every classroom has several students who speak in different languages. For a perfect learning experience, study lessons must be according to their language preferences. Previously, it was hectic for teachers, but now interactive flat panels are doing this. They translate all the lessons in various languages and boost diversity in class.
4. Flexibility of Learning
Education must be free-flowing. The learner must have access to the learning materials from anywhere in the world. It ensures seamless learning even when they are out of town. The interactive panels are helping with this. These panels store the lessons so that the student can access them anytime. Additionally, it allows the user to pause and zoom for better understanding.
These benefits contribute to uplifting educational standards and help students thrive for excellence. Although these benefits are pretty basic, the latest models offer more advantages.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Interactive Flat Panel
Interactive panels have transformed the education sector. The latest technology and updated features have transformed monotonous reading into interactive sessions and eye-catching presentations. The panels allow for collaborative projects and experiences, contributing to overall growth.
However, not every panel can provide this top-notch classroom experience. Depending on features, quality and technology, the experience can vary. If you want the best, consider some factors before choosing interactive flat panels. Are you confused? Here are the factors you must evaluate-
1. Screen Size
Deciding the display size is crucial for an optimum learning experience. Ideally, the screen should be large enough for a student from the farthest corner of the class to see clearly. It reduces the chances of confusion and provides an equal study opportunity for all. Make sure the student can read a 20-point font from the farthest point. Consider room dimensions and the number of students for a perfect panel.
For example, if you have 30 to 40 tutees in the class, you must go for a 73-inch interactive panel. On the other hand, if you have 20 to 25 students in the class, go for the 43-inch panel.
2. Specifications of the Panel
Panel specifications are the in-built technologies. These specifications ensure a seamless operation and high-grade experience. Always go for panels that have built-in speakers for a chaos-free classroom. Also, ensure the panel has features like Bluetooth, hotspot setting, Air Class, Google Play Store, picture-in-picture (PIP), file manager, etc.
These features will help the teacher access learning material from various sources. The cherry on top is that they can store and showcase it in excellent visual quality.
Do not forget to check the processor and operating system for better data storage. They store all the lessons for future use. While doing this, you must evaluate the benefits of Windows and Android. Windows are not easy to use, and your staff (teachers) might need training. On the other hand, Android works like a larger mobile phone. It offers a self-explanatory and intuitive interface in the classroom. Naturally, it is easy to understand and requires no training.
3. Brand Value
Overlooking the brand name can lead to disappointment and a waste of money. If investing to upgrade the study experience, you must go for top-notch brands only. High-end brands offer panels with updated technologies. They usually have a wide range of options, which helps you get the best one at an affordable price.
Top brands also offer better customer support and on-site maintenance. Furthermore, many brands provide free assistance and upgrades to the IFP software. As the IFPs use software to use the hardware, they must have all the updated software. Any lag on this can impact the study experience.
4. Display Quality
Display quality ensures the quality of the image and controls the understanding level. Hence, always make it a priority while selecting a panel. We suggest going for 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) UD or UHD (ultra-definition and ultra-high-definition) panels. They have four times better pixels than any HD (high-definition) one. Although UHDs cost more than HDs, they offer better quality.
For a great display, you must focus on brightness, too. It is crucial to mention that the brightness you need depends on the lighting standard of your classroom. For a well-lit classroom, 450 cd/m² is good. If the classrooms do not have ample light, you need more brightness. In that case, you can arrange an artificial lighting set-up to make it visible to everyone.
5. Software Compatibility
Software compatibility is one of the most fundamental factors. It ensures whether the study experience will be top-notch or not. For optimum results, every panel must have industry-oriented software compatibility. For example, if you opt for a panel for your school, it must be compatible with educational applications and the Google Play Store.
For a PC-based panel, go for Windows and Microsoft Suite. Both are great options for diverse educational applications. A wide range of software integration offers better lesson management, digital whiteboards, and lesson-planning tools. The software integration capability depends on the brand and model you choose. Thus, take time to compare and select the updated one.
6. Budget
Before diving into interactive panels, you must consider your budget. There are many options in the market. Setting a budget will help you understand and balance your needs with market options. It will narrow down your search, help you save time, and prevent you from overspending.
Along with budget, access your needs for practical demand. Consider your classroom size, student type, and their needs. For example, if your students prefer image-based learning, use interactive whiteboards. On the other hand, if they are comfortable with text-based presentations, go for panels capable of handling text-heavy slides.
7. Warranty
The market for flat panels is entirely of different suppliers of office equipment. They are offering lucrative offers to attract new buyers. Some offers are enchanting, and we are not stopping you from availing them. Nonetheless, those offers are not everything you should look for.
Always look for a warranty period. It will give you peace of mind and ensure an error-free classroom experience. Typically, a branded panel comes with a warranty of at least 50,000 hours of expected use with a lifespan of over 15 years. Further, check whether it offers 12 months or 5 years of on-site maintenance.
8. After-sales Support
Many times, buyers overlook the after-sales support. Well, it can be the worst decision you can ever make. IFPs have high-end software and are critically built. Panels need frequent maintenance to maintain performance levels. So, you need good after-sales support. Without it, you will feel overwhelmed, and the whole investment will be in vain.
Proper after-sales support helps you get help at your doorstep. Most panels are heavy, and replacing them after installation is a task. Thus, you need the correct help. Any mishandling can ruin the panel.
9. Users Review
Last but not least, remember to check users’ reviews before purchasing interactive panels. It will help you learn about their experiences and the actual scenario. You can ask your fellow school owners directly or through the Internet.
Now, while searching the internet, you might get thousands of reviews. Always account for the relatable ones. It means considering your usage. It might not suit you if they use the IFP for different purposes.
Selecting the correct interactive panel for your class can be daunting. Still, remember, it is the foundation step. Therefore, consider all the tips before making any decision. For a more worthy decision, you can evaluate features like audio features, viewing angles, multi-touch capabilities, multimedia playback and file support, OS, etc.
Comparing Brands and Models
Interactive flat panels are a unique combination of education software and the right learning technology. Data shows this technology has succeeded three times better than the traditional study method. Due to this, it is rapidly gaining popularity among school authorities. It is helping them set a standard for education and student welfare.
Despite that, many schools feel overwhelmed while choosing the perfect interactive panel. It’s due to the vast number of options available in the market and their diverse features. In this position, a proper comparison among brands and models is needed. It will help you understand the scenario and make a perfect buying decision. Hence, some popular brands and their top-selling models with their winning features are here.
1. Prowise
Prowise is one of the most popular IFP brands in Ireland. The Prowise interactive flat panels are known for their updated technology and user-friendly interface. Their high-specification flat panels are ideal for making collaboration and interactivity in the classrooms. Furthermore, the Prowise interactive flat panels consume less energy and offer a reasonable speed. Here are some of their popular models-
• Prowise Touch Screen 10
Prowise touch screen 10 is highly popular among teachers because you don’t need a computer. The independent flat panel has a 4K Ultra HD IPS panel, 178°viewing angle, anti-glare pro glass, and 40 touch points. It comes with 2.1 Dolby audio sound bars for the most transparent audio and six broad areas for the microphone. Lastly, it has high-end security to protect and save data.
• Prowise Touch Screen One
Prowise Touch Screen One is another popular model of this brand. The specific model is popular due to its high-end technology. It allows the user to take notes from other websites with different colours. Its ad-free quick browsing system ensures zero distraction in the class. It also has features like a 4K Ultra HD IPS Panel 178°viewing angle, anti-glare pro glass, etc.
• Prowise Central
Every classroom has unique needs, and Prowise understands them very well. For this, they have come up with the Prowise Central. The flat panel offers free installation for top-notch applications like AirPlay (Apple), Chromecast (Chrome OS), Miracast (Windows), and Reflect. The add-on benefit is that Proiwise offers a 5-year over-the-air (OTA) facility. This means that, in the first five years, they will take care of updates for your touchscreens on new features, performance, and security for free.
2. BenQ
BenQ is another popular interactive flat panel brand. With their wide range of offerings and 4k panels, they are helping thousands of schools to upgrade themselves. Their panels have built-in whiteboarding software, classroom technologies, and an intuitive interface. Here are some of their popular models-
• EDLA BenQ Board Pro
EDLA BenQ Board Pro is one of BenQ’s popular models. It comes in sizes such as 65 “, 75″, and 86”. It can connect directly with the Google Play Store to ease education. The user-friendly interface of the EDLA BenQ Board Pro helps conduct classes with one tap only.
• BenQ Board Essential
You can use the BenQ Board Essential for an Android flat panel. It is built to work with Android 11 OS and is available in 65 “, 75″, and 86”. Its low emission level makes it sustainable. Most importantly, the model has low blue light and anti-glare glasses, which help to protect the students’ eyes from the harmful effects of glare.
3. Promethean
Promethean is an award-winning free teaching software building company. Currently, they are winning hearts with their interactive panels, too. According to the users, it is one of the most interactive flat panels they have ever used. Some of the popular models are-
• ActivPanel 10 Premium
ActivPanel 10 Premium offers its users a customised interactive panel. You can choose panel configuration, model, size, operating system, and accessories without compromises. It can also be used away from real panels, which boosts user convenience.
• ActivPanel 10
The ActivPanel 10 is mainly popular because of its user-friendly display. The anti-glare glass ensures a comfortable study experience. Moreover, the flat panel allows its user to run a video or game in a smaller window while continuing to use other windows.
• ActivPanel LX
The ActivPanel LX has OS free design. Although it prevents you from data storage, it requires no update. Naturally, it requires less time and effort. In this, you can select the correct module and do your job peacefully.
Why Prowise Is The Better Option?
As this point aims to compare the models, we suggest using the Prowise models. They have 4 K visual quality, top-notch security, and offer data storage. This means they are all-in-one models. Also, they come in all shapes (smaller and larger) to address the market’s diverse needs.
On the other hand, BenQ does not have smaller versions. Hence, it is not ideal if you have a smaller classroom. Promethean does not provide data storage in all models, which causes inconvenience.
Installation and Maintenance
Interactive flat panels have successfully changed the way of education. They have introduced brainstorming sessions and collaborative project work. Now, no one just sits in class and takes notes.
Students can learn from anywhere worldwide and have doubt-clearing sessions, too. In a nutshell, it has made education student-friendly and accessible to all.
Nevertheless, it is essential to mention that its success rate depends on its functionality. This means that if it is installed and maintained correctly, it will work accurately, and then only you can expect a result. Further, any minor mistake in installation can ruin the panel permanently. For this reason, we suggest you depend on professional people for this.
You can ask your office equipment supplier to install it. Regarding maintenance, we suggest you choose the brands that offer on-site maintenance. It will help you to stay tension-free and conduct classes without any issues.
Install Interactive Flat Panels in the Classroom and Shape the Education for Better
The interactive flat panels have changed the approach to teaching. It makes the study sessions fun and helps the teachers make more effective study lessons. The targeted study materials ensure that every kid is getting the perfect education and fostering their talents.
If you are ready to choose the ideal one for your school, we suggest you connect with Munster Business Equipment. We are one of Ireland’s leading office equipment suppliers and help thousands of schools and offices.
Our interactive panels use top-notch technology to ensure user convenience and privacy. We also provide sustainable office equipment and excellent customer support. Our over 50 years of experience help us assess each client’s needs separately and offer them an outstanding solution.
Connect with us now!