A technology that has emerged in my industry is the interactive whiteboard. “An interactive whiteboard or IWB is a large interactive display that combines the simplicity of a whiteboard, power of a computer and front projection” (Promethean, 2011). As an educator, I feel that the use of technology is a tool that can be utilized to enhance my students’ learning. When using some form of technology my focus is on the students’ learning in order for it to be utilized effectively inside my classroom. As a first grade teacher, I find that my six years old students need active engagement in their learning environment. They require a lot of hands on learning. With that being said, the interactive whiteboard has proven to be that emerging technology that is beneficial inside the classroom.
One challenge that is faced with this emerging technology is providing teachers with proper training on how to use the interactive whiteboard. Most professional development sessions are geared towards the entire entity but when you have only one or two teachers who actually have the technology inside their classroom then cost of training becomes a factor. Another challenge is the actual cost of the interactive whiteboard. The equipment can be expensive and this limits the amount of teachers who can have access to the technology.
After overcoming these hurdles, educators will be able to enhance teaching and learning that they provide their students. These whiteboards will allow the children explore and gain a deeper understanding of what they are being taught
Below, you will find several links and images of the interactive whiteboard:
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Promethean (2011). Interactive whiteboards solutions. Retrieved from: http://www.prometheanworld.com/server.php?show=nav.15
