An interactive whiteboard consists of three pieces of equipment working together - a computer, a digital projector and the whiteboard itself, which acts as a touch-sensitive screen.

When using the interactive whiteboard, you operate the computer by pointing at the screen, either with an electronic pen, or with your finger.

Interactive whiteboards can be used to display computer software, CD-ROMs, web pages and DVDs.

You can edit on screen and record changes and additions using an interactive whiteboard. You can also add video, graphic and sound, and use the whiteboard as an electronic flipchart.

Using an interactive whiteboard means the whole class can benefit from computer-based lesson material without having to try to squeeze around a single screen.

Lessons can be prepared in advance on a computer or a laptop, and classwork can be stored onto the computer using the interactive whiteboard. You can edit your material and store it as you go along.

Interactive whiteboards allow material from a variety of media to be displayed. They are also very flexible in the sense that virtually any educational software can be used with them.

Because they have evolved from existing technologies and are quite straightforward, interactive whiteboards are easy to use.

Several different types of interactive whiteboard are available. The cheapest are infrared and ultrasonic boards, which allow the user to adapt existing whiteboards. Dual membrane boards are the next step up, with the more expensive options being wireless, impact-resistant boards and plasma screens.

Before purchasing an interactive whiteboard, you will need to think about what screen size you will need, relative to the size of the rooms you will be using.

You will also need to think about whether you will want the board to be portable or in a fixed position.

You’ll need to ensure that the software used to link the whiteboard with the computer is the right platform eg Mac or PC.