Jump into Collaborative Learning with the SMART Table

Purpose n The SMART Table collaborative learning center combines learning and play to inspire center-based learning and active collaboration.

Description n n n n 42” LCD, 1080 p, touchscreen display Multiple points of contact Spill proof Sturdy Wifi built in Supports multiple USB devices 4 headphone jacks Mobile

School Vision n The SMART Table supports our school vision to engage students in collaborative learning by using technology. n Students are able to work together 4 to 8 at a time on the ready made activity packs that support learning goals or teacher created themed lessons. The activity packs engage students in active discussion, problem solving, and consensus-building activities on one interactive surface.

Users & Accessibility n The SMART table is recommended for engaged use with Pre. K-3 rd graders and students with special needs. n Developed to meet Universal Design for Learning (UDL) standards and the 360 degree horizontal table makes it easy for all to participate and pedestal base is fully wheelchair accessible. n The SMART Table was designed to fit through doorways, so it easily moves from classroom to classroom making it easy to share between multiple rooms.

Software/Equipment n Over 1, 500 customizable activity packs that support learning goals (Pre. K-3) are included. Teachers are also able to create their own themed activities to meet their curriculum needs (standards) or import notebook files from SMART exchange. n A free license to SMART Sync is also included which allows teachers to share content on the table with the entire class on their SMART board as well as send activities from your own computer to the SMART table. n Four headphones are recommended for smart group use of activities with sound, as not to disturb the entire class.

Technical Support n An online user group for SMART Table is free and available for the teachers to join. This is where teachers can chat with other users and share content and strategies. There also monthly live events that connect teachers with product experts who share best practices as well as guide you through creating your own activities for the table. n Product and quick reference guides as well as how-to and trouble shooting articles are available at SMART’s website (education. smarttech. com) Also comes with a two year warranty

Student Safety n n Sturdy pedestal prevents tipping table and spill and scratch resistant surface can support up to 200 lbs. Internet access can be disabled Large flat display allows teachers to monitor what students are working on Teacher controls content available for access

Expenses Cost of Table - $4, 995 n Delivery & Setup (Including Firmware Update) - $185 n Shipping and Handling - $215 n Full day of on site training (if needed) - $2, 000 n Also includes free 90 day installation warranty on parts and labor n

Potential Funding Government: n Title II n Title I FLP Local: n PTA n Community Business Partners

Classroom Integration n SMART table can be used for small group instruction or group work with up to eight students, but four is ideal. It supports up to 40 simultaneous touches so students can collaboratively work together on activities. The horizontal design of the table allows students to work face to face encouraging conversation and collaborative problem solving.

Differentiation n The SMART table is operated by touch so students that have difficulty physically operating a computer would have complete access to the SMART table. n Teachers are able to create their own activities on the SMART Table using the tool kit, so activities can be tailored to individual student needs.

Effectiveness (research based) n A current study being conducted by the students at Virginia Tech are examining if the SMART table is encouraging “Math Talk” by the students. They have found that when using the SMART table with elementary students it appears to be advancing their problem solving and critical thinking skills. The students are making references to mathematics both verbally and with gestures. The Use of a SMART Table to Increase On-Task Behavior http: //downloads 01. smarttech. com/media/research/international_research/usa/smart_table_on_task_paper. pdf n Another study conducted by the University of Mary Washington found that on-task behavior increases for all students when using the SMART Table. (students with or without off task tendencies) Smart Table Helps Students Develop Math Talk http: //www. vt. edu/spotlight/innovation/2010 -11 -22 -smart-table/smart-table. html

Implementation Plan Purchase and Install Technology Change Model Train select teachers Monitor Student and Teacher Use of SMART Table Ask teachers to provide in school training workshop for all other teachers. Possibly purchase more tables. Find a specific need for technology in the school or district you are in Determine where the available funds are to purchase the technology Purchase technology and provide hands on training for all involved

Reflection n n In doing this project, I have found that the SMART table is a great tool for collaboration. I feel like this will be a great tool for my school because it is a transition piece from the SMART board. The teachers are already comfortable with the SMART boards and I feel this piece of technology has enough in common that it won’t be too big of a jump. I also feel it will be well accepted because it has more than one point of contact like our current SMART boards do. The one point of contact can get very annoying when you have two students trying to move things at the same time. The SMART table allows students to work together manipulating items simultaneously. As I was finding research on the SMART table I was reminded how important it is for students to work together and share ideas. They have so much to learn from each other and it helps them later in life because there are very few jobs where people work alone and have no contact with others.