Lightboard is changing the way teachers and professors connect with their students. At the same time, it is saving educators an extensive amount of valuable time and reducing unnecessary headaches related to lesson preparation and presentation. While Lightboard was originally designed with an online tutorial or virtual classroom format in mind, it has applications in live classrooms as well. Its functionality extends to compatibility with PowerPoint presentations, use by students for various projects and more. Before you can take advantage of your own Lightboard, you will need to either order a Lightboard that is ready for immediate use or assemble your own equipment through the use of a Lightboard kit.
At first, glance, building an advanced feature like a Lightboard may seem too complex. With this assumption, you may think that the only realistic option available is to empty your wallet for a pre-assembled Lightboard. In reality, the right Lightboard kit will be relatively easy to install. You will need a few basic tools, but you will not need extraordinary fabrication or technological skills. If you are uncertain about your ability to assemble your own Lightboard from a kit, consider watching a few online videos to get a better idea about the extent of the project before you order your kit.
The Benefits of Building Your Own Lightboard
Cost is one of the most significant benefits associated with building your own Lightboard. Consider that the cost of a 34-inch tabletop system may cost more than $1,800. A 97-inch floor-standing model with adjustable height functionality may cost almost $8,000. In comparison, the total cost for all of the components needed to make your own Lightboard may cost around $1,500 or less.
At first glance, building an advanced feature like a Lightboard may seem too complex. With this assumption, you may think that the only realistic option available is to empty your wallet for a pre-assembled Lightboard. In reality, the right Lightboard kit will be relatively easy to install. You will need a few basic tools, but you will not need extraordinary fabrication or technological skills. If you are uncertain about your ability to assemble your own Lightboard from a kit, consider watching a few online videos to get a better idea about the extent of the project before you order your kit.
Defining Your Specific Lightboard Needs
Before ordering a kit for your assembly project, you should assess the space available in your room. Will your Lightboard stand on a tabletop or on the ground? What board size is most suitable for the material that you typically cover? For example, complex math formulas may require a much larger board in order to include the entire problems or formulas on the board at one time.
What to Look for in a Lightboard Kit
In most cases, glass is not included in these kits. You will need to order it separately. High-quality picture glass or aquarium glass may work well, and you can order it cut to the desired dimensions. Because an important benefit of a kit is the convenience that it provides, it should come with all of the other parts that are needed for assembly. This includes the casters, the frame, the edges, the LED lighting, and the glass mounting hardware. In addition, your kit should come with detailed instructions that are easy to understand.
If You Order Your Parts Individually
There may be several reasons why a kit may not be practical for your needs. For example, you may not be able to find the right size and style of Lightboard to meet your needs in a kit. If you are faced with this or other challenges, you will need to order your parts individually and assemble them on your own. Create a clear written plan for your project with all dimensions measured precisely. For the best results from this do-it-yourself approach, consider watching several instructional videos online. Keep in mind that preparing a wood frame rather than a steel frame may be easier to do because trimming and assembling wood can be done with common tools and supplies.
How to Prepare Your Presentation Area
For the best results, your assembled Lightboard should be cleaned with a microfiber cloth before recording. You also need to invest in erasable markers designed for use on glass. Neon colors work best. Place the Lightboard in front of a dark backdrop. You can pin black material against the wall or cover it with black paper at a minimal cost. However, the educator should be illuminated. One approach is to shine a light on the educator from both sides so that the light does not directly strike the glass. For the best results, shield the light from hitting the black backdrop behind the board.
Your presentation area should also be equipped with a video recording device and a good microphone. Some people use a digital video recorder mounted on a tripod. Depending on the camera’s features, this may produce higher-quality footage that may be easier to edit, if needed. However, you can also use the recording feature on your smartphone or handheld digital camera as long as you can mount them steadily. A webcam will also suffice. Regardless of the type of recording device that you use, the audio will be clearer if a microphone is used. A shotgun microphone or a lapel microphone may work well.
You can see that the many benefits of a Lightboard are within your reach. While ordering a full Lightboard can be cost-prohibitive, a do-it-yourself approach through a kit enables you to save money and to assemble your Lightboard without hassle. You can start by exploring some of the kits available today.