Interactive whiteboards have brought significant improvements in the education sector by simplifying the learning processes. The technology has been integrated in all levels of learning including primary school, high school and institutions of higher learning. Though the technology has been around for more than two decades, its use has only grown exponentially over the past few years.
The article below explores advantages of interactive whiteboard over normal blackboard.
1. Versatile Use
Interactive Whiteboards are effective in numerous settings that require spontaneous, quick-feedback. They are used in interactive exercises, brainstorming sessions and classroom discussions. Whiteboards do not need to be hooked up to electrical outlets or computers and can be used anytime. There are a large variety of whiteboards available, varying in size and features.
2. Participative
Whiteboards are collaborative and encourage participation. More than one person can use the board at any given time, so whiteboards multiply response and participation. They are invaluable teaching tools that facilitate the input of everyone involved. Teachers routinely use them to motivate disinterested and shy students and reward and recognize the efforts of enthusiastic students. According to David Miller et. al., in the book "EXP Maths," whiteboards aid concentration, increase interaction and motivate teachers and pupils. They are an involved and dynamic approach to learning and make the learning experience fun and educational.
3. Allows Students with Various Disabilities to Learn Better
Each student in a class enjoys learning in different ways. While some are good auditory learners(able to learn better with audio), others are great visual learners. So including text, images, audio and video in a presentation allows everyone, including those with learning disabilities, to enjoy the lesson. Another benefit of using interactive whiteboard in the classroom is that it helps students with hearing impairment to benefit from visual presentation. Those unable to see partially or completely can also learn more about a given topic using audio presentation. Hence the use of interactive whiteboards ensures the learning needs of every student are met sufficiently.
4.Cost Effective
Whiteboards are cost effective, inexpensive and have low running costs.As of September 2010, plain white boards measuring 36 inches in length and 48 inches in width cost between $45 and $50, according to Office Depot. Erasers cost between $3 and $8 and dry-erase markers cost between $2 and $10 each. Whiteboards cost less than constantly using and discarding flip-charts and making multiple worksheets.
The benefits of interactive whiteboards in the classroom are so many that any learning institution can't afford to ignore. Apart from bringing convenience and flexibility in education, use of interactive whiteboards increases teacher-student engagement and boost performance in the long run.
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