Interactive screens are a common feature in modern classrooms, replacing traditional interactive whiteboards and projectors; today’s displays combine a large touchscreen with built-in computing, connectivity and software to support teaching, collaboration and digital learning.
For schools and trusts considering a classroom technology refresh, choosing the right interactive screen can be a complicated decision. There are different manufacturers, screen sizes, operating systems, software packages and installation options to consider. Schools also need to think about how displays will integrate with existing devices, networks and teaching practices. This guide covers the key things schools should consider before investing in interactive classroom displays.
What is an interactive classroom screen?
An interactive screen is a large touchscreen display designed to be used by teachers and pupils. Teachers can interact directly with content on the screen using their fingers or a compatible stylus. Depending on the model, screens can support multiple simultaneous touch points, allowing several users to interact with the display at the same time.
Modern interactive displays can also connect to laptops, tablets and other classroom devices, allowing teachers to display presentations, websites, videos, applications and other digital resources. Many models include a built-in operating system and applications, meaning they can be used without a separate computer for some tasks.
Why are schools replacing interactive whiteboards?
Some schools still have classrooms equipped with older interactive whiteboards and projectors and while these systems may continue to work, they can become increasingly difficult and expensive to maintain as they age. Projectors can suffer from lamp failures, reduced brightness and image quality issues. Older interactive whiteboards may also rely on software or connections that are no longer well supported.
Unlike a traditional projector and interactive whiteboard combination, an interactive display produces its own image and doesn’t require a separate projector. Interactive screens offer a simpler alternative by combining the display and interactive functionality into a single piece of equipment. They can also provide brighter images, higher resolutions and modern connectivity options.
For schools planning a technology refresh, replacing ageing interactive whiteboards with interactive displays can be an opportunity to modernise and improve the classroom.
What size interactive screen does a classroom need?
Screen size is one of the first decisions schools need to make. Common classroom display sizes include 65-inch, 75-inch and even 86-inch. The right size depends on the classroom itself, viewing distance and how the display will be used.
A 65-inch display may be appropriate for most teaching spaces, while larger teaching spaces may benefit from a 75-inch or 86-inch screen.
It is important not to choose based solely on screen size. The positioning of the display, height of installation and viewing angles can all affect how easy it is for pupils to see the content. A professional site survey can help determine the appropriate size and mounting position for each classroom.
What features should schools look for?
Interactive displays can vary considerably in terms of their features and specifications. Considerations should include:
Resolution and image quality
A modern interactive screen should provide a clear, bright image that can be easily viewed from around the classroom. 4K resolution is common on modern education displays and can provide a sharp image for text, presentations, images and video. Brightness and viewing angles are also important considerations, particularly in classrooms with lots of natural light.
Touch technology
The quality of the touchscreen can have a significant impact on the classroom experience. Schools should consider how many simultaneous touch points the screen supports and whether it provides accurate, responsive interaction. A good display should allow teachers and pupils to write, draw, move objects and interact with content naturally.
Built-in operating system
Many interactive displays include an integrated operating system that allows teachers to access applications, websites and digital resources directly from the screen. This can make the display more flexible and reduce the need to connect a separate computer for every activity. Schools should check which operating system is included, how frequently it receives updates and whether the applications they need are supported.
Connectivity
Connectivity is another important consideration. Look for displays offering suitable combinations of:
HDMI, USB, USB-C, network connectivity, wireless screen sharing and bluetooth. USB-C can be particularly useful for modern laptops because a single connection can potentially provide display output, touch interaction and device charging, depending on the equipment.
Audio
Built-in speakers can be useful for videos, presentations and interactive learning resources; however, larger spaces may benefit from a separate audio system.
Interactive screen software
Many education displays come with software designed specifically for interactive teaching. This may include digital whiteboarding, annotation tools, lesson resources and screen-sharing functionality. Schools should consider how the software fits with the platforms teachers already use.
For example, if your school is heavily invested in Microsoft 365, it makes sense to consider how easily displays work with Windows devices, Microsoft Teams, OneDrive and other Microsoft services. Similarly, schools using Google Workspace should consider compatibility with Chromebooks and Google services. The best solution for your school is going to be the one that teachers can use easily within the technology environment the school already has.
How will teachers connect their devices?
A classroom display should work as part of the wider school IT environment and teachers may need to connect Windows laptops, Macs, Chromebooks or tablets to the display. Wireless screen sharing can provide a convenient way to present content without repeatedly connecting cables, but wireless functionality also relies on a suitable network infrastructure. If your school’s Wi-Fi is outdated or overloaded, adding wireless classroom technology may expose existing network limitations so the school’s wider network and infrastructure should be considered at the same time.
Classroom display installation
As well as the purchasing of interactive screens, schools must also consider how displays will be installed and what is required in each classroom.
This can include:
- Wall mounting
- Brackets and fixings
- Power requirements
- Cable management
- Existing wall construction
- Height and positioning
- Connectivity
- Audio
- Removal of old equipment
- Configuration and testing
The screen should be installed at a suitable height for both teachers and pupils. Poor positioning can make a high-quality display less effective, so installation should be treated as part of the overall classroom design. Height-adjustable wall lifts are available if screens are in spaces used by different age groups.
It’s important to ensure that old equipment is removed and disposed of in a secure and environmentally friendly way, complying with WEEE regulations.
Buying an interactive display from a provider that can also install it, and deliver on all of the factors above, gives schools a simpler, more complete solution. Everything can be managed through one provider, helping to reduce administration and potential delays.
Professional installation also ensures the display is securely mounted at the correct height and position, with cabling and connections properly configured and tested. A provider familiar with school IT environments can also make sure the screen works with existing devices, networks and classroom technology. Having one point of contact for supply, installation and ongoing support can make the entire process easier and provide greater peace of mind.
Accessibility
Accessibility should form part of the decision-making process. The display needs to be visible and usable by all pupils, including those with additional needs. Schools should consider factors such as screen positioning, text visibility, brightness, audio and ease of interaction, Features such as adjustable text size, screen annotation and compatibility with accessibility tools can also be valuable. It is worth involving teaching staff and relevant specialists when assessing potential displays to make sure the chosen solution works for the pupils who will use it.
How much do interactive screens cost?
The cost of an interactive classroom display can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, screen size, specification and included software.
Schools should also consider the total project cost, including installation. Your budget may need to account for:
- Interactive screens
- Mounting equipment
- Installation
- Cabling
- Software licences
- Extended warranties
- Professional services
- Staff training
- Removal of old equipment
- Ongoing support
A cheaper display may not necessarily represent better value if it has a shorter warranty, limited software support or higher long-term maintenance requirements. When comparing quotations, make sure you are comparing like-for-like specifications and services.
Should schools replace every screen at once?
For schools with a large number of classrooms, a phased replacement programme can make it easier to manage budgets and minimise disruption. For example, a school could prioritise classrooms with the oldest or least reliable equipment before moving on to newer displays. A phased approach can also allow staff to become familiar with the technology before it is rolled out more widely.
However, schools should consider standardising on a limited number of models where possible. Having different displays, software platforms and connection methods in every classroom can make support and training more complicated.
Warranty and support
Interactive displays are an important part of classroom infrastructure, so support should be considered before purchase.
Things to check:
- Length of warranty
- What the warranty covers
- Availability of replacement parts
- Repair arrangements
- Software update policies
- Manufacturer support
- Installation support
- Ongoing IT support
A school may have dozens of interactive displays in daily use. If several screens develop problems at the same time, managing repairs can become time-consuming. Choosing a supplier that can provide ongoing technical support can help schools resolve issues more efficiently.
Screen management
Managing a large number of interactive displays across a school, or across multiple sites, can be time-consuming if each screen needs to be maintained individually. Many leading brands, including BenQ and SMART, offer centralised device management platforms that allow IT teams to monitor and manage multiple displays remotely from a single location.
IT technicians can remotely push firmware and software updates, install or remove approved applications, adjust settings and carry out diagnostics without needing to visit each classroom. Centralised management can also provide visibility of device status and help identify potential issues before they affect teaching. For schools with multiple screens, this can reduce the amount of time spent on routine maintenance, minimise disruption and make it easier to maintain a consistent configuration across classrooms and sites.
Staff training
Training doesn’t need to be complicated but the most value will be delivered from the investment if staff are confident in the new technology. Teachers should understand the basic functions of the display, how to connect their devices, use annotation tools and access relevant software and resources. When introducing new classroom technology, consider providing an initial training session alongside ongoing support and refresher training.
This training could be provided by your IT Lead if they are confident enough, or by your IT support/Installation provider – the provider will likely also be able to provide tips and tricks for enhancing interactive lessons. Some screen manufacturers have online training, such as the BenQ Academy, and others will provide free onsite training when purchasing a certain amount of interactive displays.
IT strategy
An interactive display project shouldn’t happen in isolation, it should fit into the school or trust’s wider technology strategy, also including:
- Wi-Fi
- Network infrastructure
- Staff and pupil devices
- Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace
- Cyber security
- Cloud services
- Audio and video
- IT support
- Hardware lifecycle management
This approach can help prevent individual technology purchases from creating compatibility or support problems later, as well as helping schools plan future expenditure more effectively.
A practical checklist for schools
Before purchasing interactive classroom displays, ask the following questions:
- What problem are we trying to solve?
Are you replacing ageing projectors, improving classroom collaboration or standardising classroom technology?
- What size screens do our classrooms need?
Assess room size, viewing distance and installation position.
- Will the displays work with our existing devices?
Check compatibility with laptops, Chromebooks, tablets and other equipment.
- Does our network support the technology?
Wireless screen sharing and cloud applications depend on reliable connectivity.
- What software is included?
Understand what teachers receive and whether additional licences are required.
- How will the displays be installed?
Consider mounting, cabling, power and removal of existing equipment.
- What support is available?
Check warranties, repairs, software updates and ongoing technical support.
- How will staff be trained?
Plan for training and adoption rather than simply installing the hardware.
- What is the total cost?
Include installation, software, support and other project costs.
- How does the project fit into our IT strategy?
Make sure your classroom technology investment supports your wider digital plans.
Choosing interactive screens for your school
Schools should consider the complete technology environment when embarking on a classroom display project – including hardware, software, connectivity, installation, support and staff training. A well-planned project can provide teachers with reliable, easy-to-use technology while giving the school a more consistent and manageable classroom environment.
At Primary Technology, we plan, supply, install and support education technology with our in-house installations and projects teams. From interactive classroom displays and classroom audio to networking, devices and wider IT infrastructure, we can help schools develop technology solutions around their teaching and learning requirements.
If your school is considering replacing interactive whiteboards or planning a classroom technology refresh, speak to us about your requirements.