Interactive White Board Research

I have really enjoyed reading the text, "Engaging Learners with Interactive Whiteboards." The setup for the literature through the use of an iPad definitely makes reading more fun and interactive. I especially liked how there is a highlighting option and creating notes in the text. The first chapter, About IWBs, talks about the different ways that IWBs are effective in the classroom for teachers and students. I like how it also points out the different struggles that are portrayed with the use of IWB and how important training is for it. This equipment can be used for instruction, highlighting, collaboration, multimedia, and feedback/response systems. It's an excellent way to have organized classroom management while encouraging classroom interaction during instruction. Research shows that there is a gain in literacy, mathematics, and science through the use of IWBs. I am amazed at the response system availability for this device. The response system allows teachers to get a quick assessment on lecture to see where the students are with comprehension of content.

I can see where IWBs would be very beneficial in the classroom if the teachers had appropriate training. However, according to the text, lack of proper training is why the device fails to provide the assistance to the teacher that is available. I was surprised to learn that most teachers do not receive training for IWBs prior to using it in their classroom. I have had two practicum placements at Tennessee School for the Deaf. Each classroom is equipped with an IWB, primarily Smart Boards, and I love the convenience of accessibility that it provides. Below is an example of me reading a book using the IWB (Smart Board) in the resource room at TSD. Having the book displayed on the screen makes it easier for me to sign the story. Having this kind of visual assistance is a great resource in a Deaf Education setting.