Ergonomic and usability analysis of interactive whiteboards in the academic environment

Abstract

This paper presents the usability analysis about the using of interactive whiteboards, specifically the EPSON Brightlink 475wi + model, evaluating its functionality for didactic purposes in classrooms. The research was done in CAC, the Centre of Arts and Communication of the Federal University of Pernambuco, where observations, interviews and questionnaires with potential users have been done. The aim of this research is to propose possible improvements that could be done in its hardware, software and interface, in addition to evaluate the educator’s preparing in relation to all the tools that the interactive whiteboard disposes, and how its knowledge is shared to the students when using this equipment. The purpose of this investigation is to do an ergonomic analysis of this important educational tool, which is generally underused by the educators, and to bring the users possible solutions so they can explore its maximum resources in their classrooms.