Modern Whiteboards Evolve from Chalkboards
There are many other terms for whiteboards. Some people call it dry erase boards, or marker boards, or dry wipe boards. A whiteboard is a glossy white flat material basically used for writing on with a non-permanent ink marker. It is usually found in offices, schools, and hospitals. Sometimes it is also referred to as a grease board because of its glossy surface. Whiteboards are an evolution to chalk boards which require a chalk for writing. Chalk boards are almost defunct to this day as calcium sulfate or chalk can be an allergen and is quite messy to use.
Whiteboards started appearing in classrooms in the 90’s. White boards are basically made of enamel layered on steel magnetic boards or porcelain layered on steel. The four typical materials of a white board’s surface is melamine, aluminum, laminate, or porcelain. The ones made of melamine are the cheapest brand but the ones that actually glare. Painted steel or aluminum is likely to be more even so they are more expensive. White boards are advantageous as non-permanent markers are easier to write with than chalk. White boards also help save paper or acetate that we normally use in projectors. Using a computer presentation may be easier but having your lesson or presentation on a white board helps conserve energy. And speaking of projectors, a white board can double as a background medium for projectors and the like. White boards have become the fixture and main furniture of every classroom, office, or hospital.