Chronicle

Interactive Whiteboards: Boon or Boondoggle?

I read this article a week or so ago and found the short video very helpful in identifying the weaknesses and strengths of the interactive whiteboard. This new technology which is now installed in 30% of US schools has the potential to enhance student’s learning experiences if used correctly. Some of the advantages of the interactive whiteboard are that they are user-friendly, improve lesson pace and teacher preparation, increase student engagement and motivation, and limit the need for a text book which in turn costs the school less.

On the other hand, not all teachers are using interactive whiteboards in a way that is more effective than other methods of teaching already available. There is also debate as to whether the cost of the whiteboards would be better spent elsewhere. Finally to maximise use of the whiteboard’s productivity teacher’s need to be instructed on how to use the whiteboard not just have the technology given to them. What quickly became apparent was that the argument wasn’t about whether or not the technology is useful but whether or not the technology is going to be used to its full potential.

I feel that if we do teach our teachers how to use the whiteboards effectively and give them the basic skills needed to explore interactive whiteboarding, then it will be extremely beneficial to the Australian classroom. The boards certainly have beneficial uses like the virtual manipulation of objects, mind mapping, visual aids, research and so on but if a teacher isn’t able to use these then there is no point them having a board.