The original ActivInspire portfolio was designed to build both technical confidence and the ability to use an interactive board for teaching. Courses were sequential, with guided practice and examples from the curriculum.
Introduction to ActivInspire
The introductory course covered the ActivPen, board calibration, interface customisation, objects, text, the Resource Browser and focus tools. Its classroom outcome was a simple interactive flipchart.
The archived format included a three-hour webinar or a half-day face-to-face introduction, with a full-day option that added practical lesson creation. It was intended for beginners and listed no prerequisites.
Core Essentials
Core Essentials developed basic tools and lesson creation in more depth. Topics included the Resource Browser, shared resources, Magic Ink and desktop annotation. Teachers practised constructing lessons rather than only following a software demonstration.
The original description assumed completion of the introduction and listed a six-hour webinar or one-day face-to-face course.
Beyond the Essentials
The next stage introduced the Property and Action Browsers, containers, restrictors and the use of outside resources. Teachers could incorporate video, sound and images to build a higher level of interaction.
The archived prerequisites were Introduction to ActivInspire and Core Essentials. The expected outcome was a more interactive instructional flipchart using advanced features.
Training the Essentials
This programme prepared experienced teachers to deliver ActivInspire professional learning within their districts. It addressed adult learners, training methods, hands-on practice and planning professional development.
It was designed for participants who already knew the software well. The archive described three- or four-day formats and required completion of the earlier courses plus practical board and software use.
Creating a successful implementation
A separate implementation course connected basic flipchart construction with expectations for teacher practice and observation. It was aimed at district and building staff responsible for teacher evaluation.
Learner response systems
The response-system courses covered registering devices, assigning students, creating questions, using self-paced learning and evaluating results. A further course concentrated on questioning techniques and higher-order thinking.
The original materials referred to ActiVote, ActivExpression and ActivEngage, alongside ActivInspire 1.6. Those product names and versions are historical. Confirm compatibility with the equipment and software currently in use.
Prepare a classroom activity
- Bring a lesson topic and materials appropriate to the students.
- Decide what the interaction should help students understand.
- Practise the activity before presenting it.
- Review the responses and adjust the lesson.
Turn software practice into a teaching plan
Use the Promethean training pathway to see how introductory skills fit a sequence of workshops. The professional development guide connects that sequence to classroom goals and follow-up practice.
Find material to adapt in the teaching resources collection. For other tools and implementation contexts, explore Microsoft training and Classrooms for the Future.
For current product learning, use Promethean’s own Introduction to ActivInspire course; check its current requirements before choosing a training pathway.
For a current reference when setting teaching goals, consult the ISTE Standards for Educators. This independent framework is separate from the historical course descriptions in this collection.