The Office of Classroom Management is converting the writing surface in a number of central classrooms from chalkboards to whiteboards. Why is this?

OCM is installing the Tech Upgrade package in general purpose classrooms and bringing these rooms up to the U’s “projection-capable classroom” standard. Chalk dust is without question destructive to electronics, computer and projection equipment. Chalk dust infiltration into equipment clogs filters, coats lenses, increases heat, destroys circuit boards, interferes with operation of mechanical parts and generally causes severe reductions in the service life and performance of installed equipment and systems.

Sometimes looking at chalk-clogged equipment in blackboard equipped rooms is enough to make one consider using a breathing mask in those rooms! Additionally, chalk creates a dust - covered environment that is much harder for custodians to keep clean.

The current generation whiteboards are improved over earlier surfaces. OCM has arrangements with the Building Services custodial force to ensure that the marker-supply process is able to work and that markers are re-supplied to central classrooms with each night’s cleaning. (It is important to note that ONLY the supplied and approved markers should be used).

Custodians are doing a better job of cleaning whiteboards (in fact, OCM staff now partners with Building Services to conduct training classes for FM custodians in how to clean classroom writing surfaces). Also, whiteboard rooms now include a permanently installed cleaning cloth paper dispenser and cleaning solution mounted near the writing surface.

Feedback from faculty and students indicates that all appreciate the cleanliness that results from whiteboard installation. Additionally, many note that the improved contrast that whiteboards provide makes them easier for students to read.

OCM attempts to consult and coordinate with user departments or colleges in advance of changing the writing surfaces in central classrooms. Also, in order to accommodate the needs of faculty members who require chalkboards, OCM maintains a mix of both whiteboard and blackboard equipped rooms in its inventory of general purpose classrooms.