Wednesday, 31 October 2012

Interactive Whiteboards... An Invaluable Tool


Another extremely useful and interactive ICT session this morning. The focus of today's workshop was all about the importance and effectiveness of the interactive whiteboard. It was also an opportunity to have a go ourselves. For those who are unaware, an interactive whiteboard is a touch-sensitive screen that works in conjunction with a computer and projector. Educators were the first people to recognize the interactive whiteboard's potential as a tool for improving student learning.


How can an interactive whiteboard be 
used in a learning environment?

Learning activities with the interactive whiteboard may include:
  • Manipulating text and images
  • Visiting websites as a group
  • Showcasing student presentations
  • Writing notes over educational clips
  • Demonstrating or using software at the front of a room without being tied to a computer

Research in the UK suggests a positive correlation between interactive whiteboards as a teaching resource and student attainment. Ball (2003) highlights the increased potential for teachers to concentrate on student responses during a lesson when an interactive whiteboard is used.

Teachers need to make a number of considerations before installing their interactive whiteboards, such as : 
  • Height - Are young children able to reach the whiteboard easily? Do they need a step?
  • Positioning - Is the whiteboard positioned in such a way that it is not affected by the sun beaming onto it from outside?
  • Visibility - Can everyone in the class see the whiteboard clearly?



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