Dr. Bell first became interested in interactive white boards for middle school and library instruction. She thought that this technology could be used for large or small groups as well as distance learning. She found that student's attitudes improved towards writing instruction when using technology.
The author then gives a brief description of what exactly interactive whiteboards are and how they can be used in general and in the classroom. Dr. Bell then gives her "baker's dozen" reasons for why she is so enthusiastic about using interactive whiteboards in the classroom.
1-They are great for demonstrations. Adults and students alike can present things simply by using their fingers and everyone will be able to see the board.
2-She then describes interactive whiteboards as being a "colorful tool". There are many options for changing colors and sizes and students respond to displays where colors are used.
3-The board allows students with all types of learning styles to be involved: audio, visual, hands-on, etc.
4-The white board is a tool that can be used for all ages!
5-Interactive whiteboards are a great tool for distance learning. They can be connected and displayed for distant learning at more than one place around the world.
6-If you have limited computer use in your classroom, the white board allows many students to get involved instead of just one person at a computer.
7-Dr. Bell also says that the interactive whiteboard is a great thing to have for the constructivist educator. They are extremely adaptable and do not need additional software.
8-They are clean and attractive. No dry-erase markers, no chalk; simply the use of your finger or pen that comes with the interactive whiteboards.
9-This whiteboard makes it easy for student that have limited motor skills. Sometimes it's hard for students to use a mouse-this way, they can simply use their fingers.
10-It's INTERACTIVE! The teacher can be at the computer while the students are at the board. They are allowed to physically contribute their ideas.
11-Images and videos can easily be displayed on the whiteboard and students/teachers can mark on them or add text.
12-You can save any work that is done on the interactive whiteboard or print it.
13-Dr. Bell explains it as a "kid magnet". They are drawn to the board and are excited to use it whenever possible.
Thanks so much for sharing this article. I was really excited when we learned more about interactive white boards last week. I hadn't had much experience with them and didn't know everything that was available to download. I think her "bakers' dozen" outlines a lot of the reasons why I love this type of technology. I know that they are quite pricey, but I think it's worth the money!
ReplyDeleteThis article was really exciting and as you stated especially after we just talked about them last Wednesday night. My favorite part of the article was when she alled it a Kid Magnet. Great way of placing the visual on the white board use! I have a mimio that I brought with me when we opened the school I am at three years ago. I have never used it, but after last week and since I am piloting a new reading series beginning in January I will be getting it out and using it. So I really appreciate the article and all of the ideas to use it for.
ReplyDeleteI have also had very limited experience with interactive whiteboards before this class, and always thought that it must be very complicated to use. How wrong I was. I would love to have a IWB in my class and can see how it is user firendly for all grades.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the article. I especially appreciate the fact that IWBs are described as interactive, "the teacher can be at the computer while the students are at the board. They are allowed to physically contribute their ideas", and "if you have limited computer use in your classroom, the white board allows many students to get involved instead of just one person at a computer". These all inclusive characteristics of IWBs are probably some of their biggest advantages.