Module 8 Activity 5 Reflection on (The learning Lab)

Upon reflection of this activity I have gained some valuable information on the use of white boards.  I have learnt that interactive white boards are like conventional whiteboards which can even help technophobic teachers to deliver their lessons with just a touch of the screen. This in itself lends to better presentation of lesson delivery and easier access to information right at your fingertip. Although I have no experience using interactive white boards, I have learnt through research and discussions from the group’s activity that interactive white boards help in broadening the use of e-learning because they rapidly demonstrate the potential of alternative modes of delivery. They make it easy for teachers to enhance presentation content by easily integrating a wide range of material into a lesson, such as a picture from the internet, a graph from a spreadsheet or text from a Microsoft Word file, in addition to student and teacher annotations on these objects. Interactive white boards allow teachers to create easily and rapidly customized learning objects from a range of existing content and to adapt it to the needs of the class in real time. They also allow learners to absorb information more easily and help learners to participate in group discussions by freeing them from note-taking. Learners are also given the opportunity to work collaboratively around a shared task or work area using interactive white board as their learning tool. However, with technology there can be problems encountered. One of the problems that can arise is the surface getting damaged resulting in necessitating expensive replacement. Also, if multiple data entry is allowed, inputs can get jumbled, resulting in on-screen gibberish. If remote access is allowed, some users may be tempted to send disruptive comments or drawings to the screen.

After looking at the pros and cons of interactive white boards, it is my belief that interactive white boards have more positives than negatives.  Hence, if the school has to embark on installation of an interactive white board to enhance its development, I would be among the first to receive training on its use.