Get To Know Your 21st Century Classroom – Part 4: Dual Pen Functionality and ActivArena

This week we will talk about the ActivPens, ActivWands, and ActivArena. ActivArena is a firmware upgrade that allows the use of Teacher and Student ActivPens or ActivWands to operate simultaneously.

The Teacher and Student ActivPens

An ActivClassroom equipped with a 300 series ActivBoard will come complete with two user interface devices: a Teacher ActivPen and a Student ActivPen. Both ActivPens work with the ActivBoard much like a stylus would work with a touch screen. They allow the user to interact with the computer, flipchart, and other programs. Unlike a typical stylus, the ActivPen has a button that acts like the “right click” button of a mouse. Promethean also paid particular attention to the ergonomic styling of the pen which allows for continuous use without grip fatigue.

So, what is the difference between the Teacher and Student pens? The Teacher ActivPen has administrative rights over the Student ActivPen. This means that the user can use the Teacher ActivPen to enable or disable the use of the Student ActivPen.

The ActivWand

The ActivWand is designed to help students and teachers that find it difficult to reach the top of the ActivBoard. It functions exactly the same as an ActivPen but is 21 inches long. ActivWands are available as an accessory in both Teacher and Student models.

Two is Better Than One

Both Teacher and Student ActivPens or ActivWands can be used at the same time, which is a tremendous instructional aide. Educators can ask a student to stand by the ActivBoard and share the solution to a problem with the rest of the class. Furthermore, dual pen functionality facilitates one-on-one instruction between the teacher and pupil.

For more suggestions about how to get the most out of the Dual Pen interface, watch this video:

Next week: We will explore the microscopic world around us with the Ken-A-Vision Digital Microscope.