Digital signage is becoming increasingly popular in schools, as it offers a way to communicate information and announcements to students, staff and visitors in a clear and engaging way. However, when incorporating digital signage into a traditional school building, it is important to strike a balance between the old and the new.
One way to do this is to use digital signage to enhance existing features of the building. For example, a school library could use digital signage to display book reviews, upcoming events and social media feeds. This would allow the library to continue to be a central hub for information and resources, while also taking advantage of the latest technology.
Screen location and setup
Another way to balance traditional and modern elements is to use digital signage in a way that is respectful of the school’s surroundings. Using vertical displays in hallways and classrooms, rather than large, wall-mounted screens, could allow the digital signage to be seen without being too intrusive.
It is also important to consider the needs of the different users of the school when designing the spaces used for your digital displays. Thinking about, who will be viewing it in this area? Will this make an impact? Students may be more interested in seeing announcements about upcoming events, while staff may be more engaged with information about school policies and procedures. By taking these factors into account, you can create content that aligns with your school community, making the viewer feel informed and engaged.
Interactivity and engagement
Integrating digital signage with interactive elements can further enhance the learning experience. Having interactive content placed purposefully around the school can provide students with the opportunity to engage with educational content in new and exciting ways. For example, using our Flag quiz content available in our Content Catalogue, engage your students in a way to create a more dynamic and participatory environment. You can even use the screens to create your own quizzes and educational games or to highlight historical facts or global events.
In addition to the interactive potential, digital signage can also play a role in streamlining school tasks. For instance, digital bulletin boards can be updated in real-time, reducing the need for paper notices and ensuring that information is always current. This is particularly useful for last-minute schedule changes and important reminders. By reducing reliance on paper, schools not only save resources but also contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Guide to effective digital signage in education
Request free guideBalancing traditional and modern elements also involves maintaining the aesthetic and historical integrity of the school building. For schools housed in older, architecturally significant buildings, this can be particularly challenging. One possible solution is to get custom digital signage enclosures that complement the building’s architecture. For instance, digital displays could be housed in wooden frames that match existing woodwork or in cases that mimic the style of historical fixtures. This approach ensures that the modern technology blends seamlessly with the traditional surroundings, preserving the school’s unique character.
Community involvement is another way that you can engage with parents and members of the local community to gather feedback on the best ways digital signage can be implemented, especially if it is a heritage building. By holding informational sessions and seeking input, you can make more informed decisions that reflect the community’s values and expectations. This inclusive approach not only creates a sense of ownership but also helps to address any concerns about the impact of new technologies.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a blend of traditional and modern elements that supports and enhances communication, improves efficiency within the school and provides an enriched learning environment.
If you haven’t yet used TrilbyTV, we offer a fully functioning 30-day trial complete with support. You can also book a free demo session where one of our digital signage experts can give you plenty of ideas on where to begin. We make it easy to get started giving you a choice of a signage discussion, TrilbyTV overview or full product walkthrough.