Green is the new black
In the 19th century, the first chalkboards were black: this shade was a good background for white chalk, and materials for blackboards are available for almost all educational institutions. However, after a while, the black-and-white contrast began to negatively affect the vision of students and teachers, it deteriorated due to excessive strain on the eyes.
Black is also prone to glare, making it difficult to see what is written on the blackboard on sunny days.
The final nail in the fate of the black boards was hammered by chalk dust, which was not completely wiped off the surface and looked like dirt.
How did you choose the new color?
When blackboards proved to be underperforming, there was a need for color replacement. For several decades, researchers have been analyzing and selecting a shade that will cause minimal discomfort when working with the board on a daily basis. The study took into account factors such as:
- Reducing the contrast between the color of the blackboard and chalk without losing the readability of the writing,
- The effect of color on the psychological state: the chosen green color calms down, reduces stress levels and increases concentration,
- Color perception by photoreceptors: the eyes focus quickly on green and do not get tired for a long time,
- Long service life of materials.
By the way, even modern whiteboards are often made not just white, but with a hint of blue or green: such a small addition again reduces the sharpness of the contrast between the colors of the board and markers, the eyes are less strained and tired.
Despite the fact that today there are electronic analogues of blackboards, many schools, universities and colleges still actively use chalk green boards. Firstly, they are much cheaper than technological options. Secondly, if the electricity in the building is suddenly cut off during the day, then the lesson will not be interrupted.
