Source : http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ef9DhJ9wXk/TerM2HEmt5I/AAAAAAAAAG0/42g1N-0LwGM/s1600/limitations.gif

With the increasing use of SMARTboards in education, teachers are able to present rich and colourful resources to the classroom. While this technology brings teachers and students into the digital world it also has few limitations.

• It is generally more expensive to setup a SMARTboard technology than conventional whiteboards in the classroom. Schools with low budgets may not afford to have one in every classroom. And if the classroom has limited space then it may be difficult to set up a SMARTboard with projector. The SMARTboard costs may range from $1000 to $5000 depending on the features and model purchased. Regular maintenance of the hardware and upgrading software may also be costly.

• Using the SMARTboard technology in the classroom discourages traditional research skills like examining library books, magazines, audio and video tapes, etc since students learn how easy it is to find information using internet search (Bianca, n.d). In addition to this, exposing students’ to excessive information from internet may distract them from learning.

• Only one user can use the board at one time unless it is a multi-touch and multi-user board. The other students may only be engaged in passive learning if the instructor does not ask students to write down information, discuss what they see or manipulate material in SMARTboard activities (Bianca, n.d).  

•  Too much light in the classroom may affect the visibility on the board. Moreover, any user standing in front will cast a shadow on the SMARTboard which may distract the learners. A SMARTboard has limited visual area depending on the screen dimensions and model purchased. Fixed and mounted boards are difficult to adjust since they are not within easy reach. 

Analysis of associated Issues with SMARTboards