What is an interactive whiteboard and what can it be used for?

Continuing in my blog about different aspects of technology in the classroom, I have explored technology that is present but often not used to its’ full potential. I use my interactive board daily but am guilty of often not using it for more than an expensive projection screen.

What is an interactive white board? There are multiple kinds of interactive white boards. Most classrooms in this day and age come equipped with some kind of interactive white board. They allow interaction with a slideshow or other presentation that an ordinary white board or slide projector cannot offer. I personally have a SMART board in my classroom but there is also Promethean and Mimio.

How can interactive white boards be used? One set of tools that can be used with an IWB is highlighting, coloring, annotating, or zooming specific content on the board. These changes can be done while teaching and can be saved or deleted. Interactivity can also include hiding/revealing text/photos or matching terms offering more ways for a student to interact with a presentation. There are tools for brainstorming and collaboration including shared reading and peer teaching. Multimedia is readily usable. Feedback through touching boards or response systems are also available tools with this technology. All of these tools can help increase engagement in classroom learning if used properly. When I use these tools, or allow students to use these tools, I do notice increased student engagement and participation in the lesson.

What are the benefits of using interactive white boards in the classroom? Increased student engagement, motivation, participation, collaboration, and having another classroom management tool are great benefits. These boards can also allow for better lesson flow because they are not rigid presentations. They also offer flexibility because they can be changed and melded as you go. Or the same lesson material can be used in a variety of ways.

Will using an interactive white board increase student achievement? Let’s be honest – technology is great but I wonder what it will it do for my students. The benefits of IWB’s are neat and useful. Some research has shown positive correlation in their proper use with student achievement. The key is in how much they are used and how effectively they are used.

What are some challenges in using interactive white boards? I personally am always interested in material that will help me be a more effective teacher and/or will help my students. However, learning a new system or technology can have its’ challenges. One challenge is that it is a technology and therefore there can be technical problems or difficulties. I have had bulbs burn out or the system break. If the power shuts off in the building, obviously that creates some issue. Always have a backup plan. Training on how to use these boards can also be a challenge. Time to prepare and practice with material can be a factor in proper use. It is sad that these boards are so expensive and so useful and yet are not always being used to their full potential.

How can teachers obtain training? Hopefully teacher preparation programs start their future teachers with training and then school systems update that training. Professional development is a great opportunity for training. It is important for teachers to learn not only how to use a board but learn how to make the board effective for students. Pedagogy should be included in trainings. Besides professional development opportunities, there are tutorials available online and classes that can be taken.

Thanks for reading!