The interactive whiteboard industry was expected to reach sales of US $1 billion worldwide by 2008; one of every seven classrooms in the world will feature an interactive whiteboard by 2011 according to market research by Futuresource Consulting.

In a nutshell :

An interactive whiteboard (IWB), is a large interactive display that connects to a computer and projector.

A projector projects the computer's desktop onto the board's surface where users control the computer using a pen, finger or other device.

The board basically functions like a large mouse.

The board is typically mounted to a wall or floor stand.

In the education and business presentation markets ,interactive whiteboards are used as replacements for traditional whiteboards or flip charts, or video/media systems such as a DVD player and TV combination.

Advantages for Teachers:

-Save notes and annotations during the class -as an electronic file eg. PDF which can then be emailed to students after the lesson.

-Supplemental instructional materials and lesson plans are now specifically designed for interactive whiteboards eg. Mimic books for shared reading practice / diagramming activities / reinforce learning skills by using on-line interactive websites etc

-Greater student interaction - allow them to use the IWB in front of the class

Advantages of Newline IdeaMax Interactive Whiteboards (over other IWBs):

1.   Durable porcelain surface - will resist scratching/puncture (infrared technology)

2.   No electric stylus required (which can be lost or batteries can die).You can use anything to write on the board : eg. your finger / any type of marker - not just the supplied marker.

3.   Open platform : works with any lesson plan software.