The Wii Smartboard – The affordable smartboard option

What is the Wii Smartboard?

The Wii smartboard is an idea created by a Microsoft researcher named Johnny Chung Lee that allows anyone to create their own smartboard using a few inexpensive tools and a simple program. The Wii smartboard is created using a wii remote controller ($40-$50), a Bluetooth usb adapter ($15-$20) , an infrared pen (homemade or you can buy one for around $15-$30), and a projector to create a homemade smartboard. This works because the Wii remote is actually a tiny camera that tracks infrared light so when it is connected to a computer through a Bluetooth wireless connection, it will track the infrared light pen, and you can use that pen the same way you would use a mouse.


How can the Wii Smartboard be used?

The Wii smartboard can be used in the same way a regular smartboard is used. It allows the user to interact with their computer desktop using a special pen on a projector in the same way they would use a mouse.


What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Wii Smartboard?

Advantages:

-Low cost

-Interactive Activities

-Only need one computer per classroom

-Can be used as a whiteboard

-Convenience of accessing multiple videos, websites, diagrams, power points, etc. without having to go back and forth between a computer and the projected image

-Student interaction with computer in front of classroom

Disadvantages:

-Requires a projector

-Has to be set up daily on most school computers

-Batteries for the Wii remote must be bought or recharged regularly

-Has to be adjusted and tested to work at 100%

Who can use the Wii Smartboard?

The primary audience for the Wii smartboard is for teachers. However, students, parents, businesses, and any individual with a need for a smartboard without the expense can create their own at home, even without a projector if they use their computer screen.


Links

Johnny Lee’s Wii Project Website

TED Conference Video

What is my personal opinion on the usefulness of the Wii Smartboard?

I believe that the Wii smartboard is an excellent option for teachers and schools that would otherwise not have the funding for a full smartboard system. it does require some setup and adjustment to function perfectly, the time spent setting it up is well worth the money saved and the usefulness of the system.