University of Idaho Utilizes Hitachi StarBoards To Create 21st Century Educational Experience In Science Classes

- Science Classes Use Hitachi Interactive Whiteboards to Enhance Teaching Materials and Learning Objects -

Professors at the University of Idaho have chosen Hitachi interactive whiteboards in a move that greatly enhances the school’s science class and laboratory teaching technology. Purchased through Troxell Communications, the school utilizes the FXDUO-77 model StarBoard along with the award winning Hitachi CP-A100 3LCD projector as part of the Hitachi CP-A100+FXDUO bundle.

The professors immediately noticed the benefits of utilizing the combination of the Hitachi projector with the interactive whiteboard. “Before when we were utilizing a traditional projector, there was always a shadow which created a distraction when presenting,” stated Ronald Robberecht, Professor of Rangeland Ecology at the University of Idaho. “Utilizing the Hitachi short throw projector has resulted in completely eliminating the shadow effect.”

According to Robberecht his students have enjoyed the addition of the interactive whiteboard into lectures in the lab setting. “Utilizing the StarBoard makes a difference to the students, they like it and it certainly adds value to the lectures. We can view ecological topics in a very interactive manner where images, videos, and text can be easily combined with the powerful dynamic annotation features of the Starboard.”

Robberecht noted that other professors use the Starboards for courses on geographical information systems (GIS) where various information such as soil types, species, forests and grasslands, and related geographical information can be shown in interacting layers of a landscape.

“Also, having a StarBoard in my office allows me to hold research meetings there. Rather than having all the students crouch around a desktop monitor. Now they can look at the images and lecture material comfortably on the large screen. Using the Starboard really allows for a natural interactive teaching interface.”

The university has also utilized StarBoards for numerous other applications. “We have one StarBoard that is being connected with a field campus where they are teaching ecology to fifth and sixth graders,” stated Robberecht.

“We attached a web cam to the StarBoard so now we utilize it as a tool for video conferencing as well.”

Based on experiences thus far the university will certainly be considering Hitachi for future technology needs. “As our smaller classrooms and seminar rooms are renovated the new Hitachi Starboards will be integral to the renovations because the price is right, the technology is great, and the service and support we have received has been excellent,” said Robberecht.