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SMART Technologies Launches Audio Accessibility Solution for SMART Boards

Key Takeaways

  • SoundFlow sends SMART Board audio directly to student listening devices: Compatible hearing aids, earbuds, headphones, personal listening devices, and speakers can receive classroom audio from the display.
  • The system is designed for simple classroom setup and control: SoundFlow connects by USB to SMART Board displays running iQ4, with no wall wiring required, and lets teachers manage access, passwords, and broadcast range.
  • Teacher voice and lesson audio can be combined in one stream: When paired with SMART SoundLift, SoundFlow can broadcast both the teacher's voice and SMART Board lesson audio together.

SMART Technologies has introduced SoundFlow, a plug-and-play broadcasting system that allows classroom audio content to flow directly from a SMART Board display to students' compatible hearing aids, earbuds, headphones, personal listening devices, or speakers. The solution can also connect to Auracast speakers, to extend audio across the entire classroom.

SoundFlow connects by USB to SMART Board displays running iQ4, with no need to run wires through walls or perform a complex installation, the company said in a news announcement. Through the iQ4 interface, teachers can start or stop a broadcast, manage access, password-protect the channel, and limit the broadcast range.

The system can also be paired with SMART SoundLift, the company's classroom microphone system, to combine the teacher's voice and lesson audio from a SMART Board display in one audio stream.

"Every student should be able to hear the lesson clearly, no matter where they sit or how they learn," said Sara Murray, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer at SMART Technologies, in a statement. "SoundFlow sends teacher and lesson audio straight to compatible student devices, without singling anyone out or adding complexity for teachers. It's a simple way to make clearer, more accessible audio part of the everyday classroom experience."

For more information, visit the SMART site.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

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