Interactive white boards have been
around for several years and are now making it into classrooms as the latest
tool for teachers and students alike.
They replace a more traditional projection technology that was, in its
time, a major leap forward allowing the computer operator to have more
discretion over sharing what and when to bring something up for the class. Projectors improved with better pictures and
mounting permanently to stabilize the images, it was now interactive for one
operator. The interactive white boards
have evolved, with the hardware and software developments like Microsoft
Surface ((Thornburg, 2009a), to become multiuser
interactive with the best from chalkboard technology and high definition interactivity
with computer programs. Sensing pens
even allow different colours and applications to interact with each other. Then you can print a screen and archive the
live work, notes, diagrams, etc.
As always, there is a learning
curve for users. Kids adapt quickly, and
may even become the tech teachers for the instructor… The capabilities of the boards are increasing
(“PolyVision
Surfaces > Home,” 2013) at the same time the tendency may be to use it
as a chalk board replacement for the teacher as was the white board, just
another writing surface. One teacher I
worked with who had a board (I did not) came over to ask how to get a movie up
on the screen.
Some of the needs that are met
relate to the expedience of the device.
A student who is handicapped and cannot take notes will be able to get
an exact print out (paper or electronic) of the notes from class, further
supporting memory building and recognizing the exact image used in class. It is forgiving, can erase easier and better
that whiteboards or earlier devices, once understood. This further allows students to become more
actively engaged over being passive receptors.
Extending the technology to student
tablets that can interact with the whiteboard and allow more participation by
more class members and allow the interaction from different parts of the room
or seats (for those unable or too shy to get up in front of the class). Accounting for the green aspects of the
technology, being able to create and share electronically without spending
hours over a copier, there will be a carbon impact in the need for more
electricity (Thornburg, 2009a). Perhaps each school will build a windmill to
help offset energy demand?
References
PolyVision Surfaces > Home.
(2013). Retrieved June 13, 2013, from http://polyvision.com/
Thornburg,
D. (2009a). Current Trends in Educational Technology (p. 6). Lake Barrington,
IL: Thornburg Center for Space Exploration.