Module 8 - Activity 5: Interactive whiteboards

We have seen the evolution of technologies, as primitive desktops have spawned generations of laptops or netbooks and blackboards have been supplanted by interactive whiteboards (IWB’s) (Betcher & Lee, 2009). 

An interactive whiteboard is a presentation system that connects a computer to a projector and screen. Through the use of either special pens or even fingertips, presenters can manipulate the images on the screen.  Sarah Burger

 

Interactive Whiteboards Enhance Classroom Instruction and Learning

Classroom applications for using interactive whiteboards include:

• Multimedia lessons and presentations including audio and video
• Collaborative problem solving
• Showcasing student projects and presentations
• Virtual field trips
• Recorded lessons that can be used by substitute teachers
• Documentation of student achievement

There are now many interactive whiteboard companies to choose from, and most feature video, image, and lesson libraries. Here are some of the leading brands:

• SMART introduced the first interactive whiteboard in 1991 and it is the world’s best-selling interactive whiteboard. A leader in introducing touch technology into the classroom, SMART boards allow teachers to access 6,600 learning objects and customizable lesson plans. http://smarttech.com/ 
• Promethean now offers an integrated system that packages the interactive white board, Learner Response System, lesson design and delivery software and online support and professional development. http://www.prometheanworld.com/
• Mimio is a system that creates an interactive whiteboard out of a standard whiteboard. For districts that are trying to manage tight budgets and already own whiteboards, Mimio is a good option. It also includes online training and certification. http://www.mimio.dymo.com
• Numonics features electromagnetic technology and a multimedia pen to utilize a full range of cross-curricular activities and training. Their website, http://www.interactivewhiteboards.com/,  offers the following research statistics:
  • A study by the University of Wisconsin confirmed that using visual aids improved learning up to 200%.
  • Harvard and Columbia Universities found that student retention is improved up to 38%.
  • Wharton School of Business proved that the time to explain complex subjects is reduced by 25% to 40%.
• eInstruction’s newest product offering, Interwrite Workspace, includes more than 4,000 digital, K-20 teaching resources from math to language arts and science. Publisher-independent, Interwrite Workspace includes 50 tools to create, display, organize, record and share teaching materials. http://www.einstruction.com/
• Polyvision’s eno board can be used as a traditional marker board, a magnetic board, or an interactive white board with no plugs or cables. It promises the lowest total cost of ownership for schools and districts looking for the most affordable interactivity. http://www.polyvision.com/

 Betcher and Lee (2009)  EIGHT KEY PRINCIPLES FOR THE EFFECTIVE USE OF THE INTERACTIVE WHITEBOARD

1. Be proficient
2. Be organized
3. Be interactive
4. Be flexible
5. Be constructive
6. Be open-minded
7. Be willing to share
8. Be prepared to plan