PROMOTING INTELLECTUAL QUALITY WITH AN IWB

In the 21^st century technology has advanced dramatically and is making a difference in today’s schools. For some teachers using tools such as interactive whiteboards can be a challenging experience as they are not use to change in the classroom. During my last 2 years at school interactive whiteboards were introduced in the classrooms. Teachers would use them to display YouTube clips, PowerPoint presentations and interactive class activities. It is important teachers are up to date with technology in today’s ever changing society. Interactive whiteboards are an effective teaching method that engages and motivates students in the classroom to promote learning.

According to Kent (2010) introducing interactive whiteboards in the classroom will promote higher order thinking and enhance overall student learning.

Benefits of using Interactive Whiteboards

Promote individual and group interactions
Creating links with existing knowledge
Lead discussions that probe student understanding
take their learning in personally relevant directions

All teachers have a job in the classroom to create an environment that actively supports students with their learning. Kent (2010) quotes “Integrating technology in to schools is a journey; it’s like climbing a mountain. Enthusiasm is a great start but alone it is probably not going to get you to the top” (p12).  It is possible to teach a class the curriculum but for students to be engaged and motivated in the activity, using interactive whiteboards will promote positive engagement within the classroom so that students can benefit from their learning.

Here is an example of an activity using an Interactive White Board

Retrieved from: http://www.prometheanplanet.com/en/Resources/Item/152378/water-and-the-water-cycle#.UV5146Kmhvp

On my immersion, last year, I noticed interactive whiteboards used in the classroom to engage and motivate students. Students were interested and actively involved in the activities and enjoyed coming up to the board to write and move objects.

Interactive whiteboards are a great technological advancement in schools around Australia; they promote and enhance the learning of students and are a great teaching method for teachers to use.

Reference List: 

Kent, P. (2012). Interactive whiteboards: a practical guide for primary teachers. South Yarra, Australia: Sharn Dalgleish. (Original work published 2008).