Interactive+Whiteboards

=Interactive [|Whiteboard](or smart boards)=

Definition (from wikipedia)
An **Interactive Whiteboard** is device that interprets a projected two-dimentional surface that interacts with a computer's desktop. A typical use is as an electronic whiteboard but it is generally an interactive type of computer screen. Interactive whiteboards typically require a computer to generate the display via a projector. Typical software mimics the computer's mouse and keyboard. However, some models have basic whiteboarding functionality present within the physical whiteboard.They are used in many settings including classrooms, business presentation and workgroup.

Outside Resources
SMARTtech Promethean Interactive Education

Research
Student Engagement research paper UK Study Another UK study - executive summary McLoughlin on [|Visual Learning] and computing

Abstract from __Interactive Whiteboards and Learning__: A Review of Classroom Case Studies and Research Literature:

"This summary of educational case-study findings and research was compiled by SMART Technologies Inc. to help educators weigh the benefits of using interactive whiteboards in the classroom. This paper brings together research and case study observations from the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia. It includes findings from the longest-running interactive whiteboard educational research programs, SMARTer Kids™ Research (http://www.smarterkids.org/research), sponsored by the SMARTer Kids Foundation of Canada. Of the available case studies and research compiled for this literature review, eighteen out of the thirty sources conducted research on the SMART Board™ interactive whiteboard. Interactive whiteboards affect learning in several ways. They serve to raise the level of student engagement in a classroom, motivate students and promote enthusiasm for learning. In at least one case, the addition of an interactive whiteboard positively affected student attendance. Interactive whiteboards support many different learning styles and have been successfully employed in hearing and visually impaired learning environments. Research also indicates higher levels of student retention, and notes taken on an interactive whiteboard can play a key role in the student review process. In addition to a positive impact on student learning, observations also indicate that designing lessons around interactive whiteboards can help educators streamline their preparation and be more efficient in their ICT (Information and Communication Technology) integration. "

Source Paper

Known issues

 * Training the teacher
 * Use students as partner learners with each teacher.

Discussion
Does the engagement wear off after the initial exposure to this new technology? How does one master the use of a smartboard so that the technology doesn't get in the way of learning? Is the board itself the factor, or is it a mindset about using more visual demonstrations and involving students?