Interactive screens in STEM education

From whiteboard to discovery lab

Picture this. You’re explaining Newton’s laws. On the board, you draw a diagram: a block on an incline, arrows showing gravity and friction. Clear… but does it really stick?

Now flip the script.

A student drags that same block up an interactive display. With a simple swipe, she adjusts the angle of the slope. Another student changes the friction from ice to sandpaper. They hit start… and instantly see how velocity and acceleration evolve.

No more just watching. Now they’re discovering.

That’s the difference between passive learning and active exploration. And it’s exactly how interactive screens transform STEM education. They turn your classroom into a place where theory comes to life. Welcome to your virtual lab.

MBO students
More than a screen

Time to unlock the real potential

Many schools already use interactive displays. But often, they’re still used to show content: slides, videos, websites. Useful? Absolutely. Game-changing? Not yet. The real impact starts when students do, test and explore.

Want better learning outcomes? Focus on three core pillars:

  • Simulations: Make abstract concepts visual and tangible
  • Experiments: Work with real data and see what happens
  • Collaborative problem solving: Let students tackle challenges together
Pillar 1

Make the abstract tangible with simulations

Simulations give students a safe space to experiment. No risks, no expensive materials, just instant insight.

Example: projectile motion

Instead of memorising formulas, students adjust variables themselves:

  • launch angle
  • initial velocity
  • air resistance

They immediately see how the trajectory changes. That’s where the real “aha” moment happens.

Example: chemical reactions

Balancing equations becomes visual:

  • add molecules
  • instantly see if it balances
  • watch atoms rearrange

Action leads to immediate feedback. Faster understanding, less frustration.

Pillar 2

From theory to real-world data

Simulations are clean and predictable. Real life isn’t. And that’s where deeper learning happens.

Your interactive display becomes the hub for data analysis.

Practical example: measuring heart rate

Let students experience it themselves:

  • Collect data: Using a simple heart rate sensor
  • Share live: Wirelessly display results on the big screen
  • Analyse together: Spot trends, highlight peaks and discuss findings

Everyone sees the same data. Everyone contributes.

With tools like i3CONNECT Studio, sharing and annotating happens seamlessly, keeping the flow of the lesson intact.

Pillar 3

Smarter together with problem solving

STEM is rarely a solo activity. It’s about thinking together. With multi-touch, multiple students can work at the same time.

Scenario: design a bridge

  • Group A creates a technical sketch
  • Group B defines materials and costs
  • You provide live feedback on both

Everyone contributes. Everyone learns.

The screen becomes a shared thinking space, not a one-person tool.

From inspiration to action

Good news: you don’t have to change everything at once. Start small and build momentum.

  • Choose one learning goal:
  • Focus on a concept students struggle with and search for the right simulation. 
    Tip: PhET, developed by the University of Colorado offers a wide catalogus of simulations.
     
  • Design the activity:
  • Whole class, small groups or rotating roles
     
  • Ask questions:
    • - What happens if we change this?
    • - Why is the outcome different than expected?
    • - How does this connect to the theory?


The screen isn’t the goal. It’s the trigger for deeper thinking.

The future of STEM starts here

STEM isn’t about memorising formulas. It’s about thinking, experimenting and solving problems.

Interactive screens help you get there.

  • from explaining to exploring
  • from theory to application
  • from individual to shared learning

Your classroom becomes more focused, more dynamic and more effective.

Start small. Even one change can make a big difference.

Discover how i3CONNECT powers your STEM lessons

Discover now

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference from a traditional whiteboard?

Traditional boards often rely on projectors. Interactive displays are all-in-one:

  • sharper visuals
  • precise touch
  • no calibration hassle
  • built-in tools

Do you need expensive software?

No. Many simulations are free and web-based.

With i3CONNECT Studio, you also get:

  • Whiteboard
  • annotation tools
  • wireless sharing with AllSync

How do you keep everyone involved?

Use clear structures:

  • assign roles
  • rotate groups
  • give each student a task

This keeps engagement high.

Is this suitable for all learners?

Absolutely.

  • visual learners see concepts clearly
  • hands-on learners engage directly
  • interactive formats boost focus and motivation