Debate for interactive whiteboards!
In a commentary entitled ‘Interactive Whiteboards: Boon or Boondoggle?‘ ed-tech experts debate whether interactive whiteboards are worth the investment in American schools (30% of schools already having access to interactive whiteboards). The debaters stated that pace of lessons were improving, engagement from students improved, along with teacher preparation. In Britain, a larger percent of classrooms have access to interactive whiteboards, however it is argued that the teachers are not using them to their fullest potential.
Another point raised in this article which I thought was really valid was what you are getting for your money when schools purchase interactive whiteboards. While initially the whiteboards are expensive, teachers found that money was being saved as they no longer needed to buy textbooks or manipulative’s as the interactive whiteboard replaced these needs.
I think as we’re moving into a more technological age, items such as the interactive whiteboard will improve learning, however I question how much teacher-student engagement is being lost along with teacher credibility? I still think they are very valuable, I would just like to learn more before I am sold on the idea!
