| What is an Interactive Whiteboard?
An interactive whiteboard is a large, touch-sensitive panel that connects
to a digital projector and a computer, displaying the information on the computer
screen. It resembles a traditional whiteboard and is used similarly. The computer
connected to the interactive whiteboard can be controlled by using special pens.
Such actions (inputs) are transmitted to the computer instead of using a mouse
or keyboard. Educational Uses
Interactive whiteboards
present educational resources in a highly interactive way and are suitable for
whole class and small group settings. They allow pupils to engage and interact
with the technology to become active participants in learning. Pupils with special
needs can particularly benefit from the presentation of multimedia content on
a large screen as it can aid in both information processing and retention. Optimal
use of an interactive whiteboard involves both the teacher and students using
it in a classroom situation. It can, for example, be used to: o
Allows presentation of student work in a more interactive and collaborative model
o Show video clips that explain difficult concepts (in any curricular area)
o Demonstrate how an educational software program works, e.g., an art program
with students using their fingers and hands to draw rather than working with a
mouse
o Cater more effectively for visually impaired students and other students
with special needs
o Display Internet resources in a teacher-directed manner
o Create handwritten drawings, notes and concept maps during class time,
all of which can be saved for future reference Technical Considerations
To get an interactive whiteboard up and running, five separate components
are involved:
o Touch-sensitive whiteboard
o Digital projector
o Computer
o Software
o Connectivity between the computer, whiteboard
and the projector The computer and the associated whiteboard software are
fundamental to the process. The digital projector allows everything that is happening
on the computer screen to be projected on to the whiteboard where everyone can
see it. The touch-sensitive whiteboard allows users, either the teacher or students,
to interact with the information being displayed, i.e., to interact with the computer.
Generally speaking, electronic pens are used as input devices, but some whiteboards
like our Smartboards allows users to use their hands directly on the board.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* *
| 
