IWBNet has had a number of queries of late about the various IWBs on offer and their suitability for use in Mac schools.

We have also received stories of some unfortunate choices that will necessitate the school replacing the original choice and selecting a board that meets their needs as a Mac school.

A word of warning for any school with a significant number of Apple Macs contemplating acquiring IWBs – move very carefully in your selection of IWBs - and make sure you opt for boards with an appropriate Mac operating software.

Boards with good Windows software don't always have appropriate and up to date Mac software.

The first boards you select will invariably be the ones you will use in time across the school.

Let us be clear up front and say IWBNet can point you to support for every IWB on the market today from some school somewhere.

However the reality is that the operating software for IWBs is invariably written initially for the Windows market. The Mac version is usually done next.

With the Mac versions of the board software there is considerable variability in datedness.

Mac schools, like their Windows counterparts, will want an operating system that enables the teachers to make best use of the current operating system. Most Mac users will want board software designed to take advantage of the features of the current operating system. At the time of writing it is Tiger, OS 10.4 upwards.

Before buying your first IWB it is suggested you test the Mac software on offer with 10.4 and its suitability for your school. Check the manufacturer’s specifications.

If you want an IWB designed for 10.4 upwards ensure that it is specified.

Most will say something like 10.2 upward, or 10.3 upwards, which is invariably an indication of the latest version of the Mac operating system for which the board was designed.

If the specifications say simply Mac Compatible the warning bells should sound.

This is not to say that much of the software will not function, rather that it hasn’t been developed to maximize the use of the current Mac operating system.

Ideally you should be able to compare the functionality of a range of offerings designed for the latest operating system – as can the Windows’ buyers.

If you are the decision maker - or advise the school's decision making - move cautiously and select for eventual whole of school use, an IWB that adds value to the decision to base the school's ICT on Apple technology.

If you have information about planned Mac updates please email info@iwb.net.au