Blackboards Survey

[Public Information Office]

Dear Professors and Scientists,

Nearly every public space at ICTP has a blackboard. So far, this simple 
piece of technology has survived in an age of laptops, PowerPoint, and 
other high-tech methods of sharing information. Some people say that 
blackboards are integral to teaching and doing mathematics and physics, 
while others think they could be replaced by something newer. The Public 
Information Office is writing a story about the history and culture 
surrounding blackboards at ICTP. We are interested in hearing your 
stories involving blackboards, and your thoughts on whether or not the 
blackboard will remain an important part of science, mathematics, and 
education in the 21st century.

Please consider the following questions:

1.In your own lectures and presentations, do you mainly use a 
blackboard, computer-generated slides, or something else?Why?

2.A number of institutions are removing blackboards in favor of newer 
technologies. Should ICTP follow suit?

3.Do you think blackboards will become obsolete? Why or why not?

4.Do you have any blackboard-specific memories of being a student or 
teacher? Are there any moments in your academic career that would have 
unfolded differently had you been using a different technology?

Please send your responses to jcalmes at ictp.it by Friday, 22 July.

This email was sent through multiple mailing lists in order to reach as 
many members of the ICTP community as possible. Please accept our 
apologies for any duplicate messages.