Abstract

Research findings from the UK, the US, Australia and Canada demonstrate the positive impact interactive whiteboards have in the classroom.

Pupil engagement, learner motivation and knowledge retention are three of several aspects of learning that the technology has shown to benefit.

The white paper containing the results of these studies is summarised below. To read the complete white paper and bibliography, download Interactive Whiteboards and Learning: A Review of Classroom Case Studies and Research Literature (PDF, 133KB).

Interactive whiteboards and learning

Studies indicate that interactive whiteboards benefit pupil engagement, learner motivation and knowledge retention. The technology has also been successful in reaching pupils with a variety of learning styles, including those with special needs.

And educators benefit, too, enjoying better pupil involvement, streamlined lesson preparation and enhanced lesson materials.

Pupil engagement

Proponents of learning theories such as constructivism, active learning and whole-class teaching understand that pupil engagement is crucial to learning.

How do interactive whiteboards promote pupil engagement?

• Educators can use digital resources while maintaining dynamic interaction with the entire class
• Interactive whiteboards allow computer-based learning without isolating pupils in front of individual computer screens
• Their large, visible workspace encourages a higher level of pupil interaction in both teacher-directed and group-based exchanges

Learner motivation

Some pupils are intrinsically motivated to learn for its own rewards, but others require extrinsic motivations such as enticements, rewards or teacher-defined goals.

How do interactive whiteboards motivate learners?

• Intrinsically motivated learners enjoy demonstrating their knowledge on the interactive whiteboard as a means of showcasing individual achievement
• Extrinsically motivated learners are enticed by the “wow factor” and are motivated by the enjoyment of using the technology
• Interactive whiteboards are dynamic and compete successfully with pupil’s favourite consumer technologies (e.g., games, mobile phones, MP3 players), helping keep pupils focused and on task

Knowledge retention

Pupils' ability to retain information is subject to several conditions, some of which are related to engagement and motivation in class. Successful retention is also aided by accurate review notes.

How do interactive whiteboards aid knowledge retention?

• Interactive whiteboards help make lessons memorable because pupils are more engaged and motivated in class
• Different learning styles are accommodated by the technology, improving the chances of retention by all pupils
• Notes written on the interactive whiteboard can be printed, e-mailed or saved, ensuring the entire class has access to accurate review material

Learning styles and special needs

The dynamic, highly visual nature of interactive whiteboards is a natural fit for all learning styles. It also helps pupils with a variety of special needs achieve their education goals.

How do interactive whiteboards accommodate different learning styles and pupils with special needs?

• Visual learners benefit from note taking, drawing diagrams and manipulating objects or symbols on the large screen
• Kinaesthetic and tactile learners can reinforce learning through exercises involving touch, movement and space on the interactive whiteboard
• Deaf and hearing-impaired pupils gain from the ability to see both visuals on the screen and the simultaneous use of sign language
• Visually impaired pupils with some vision ability can manipulate objects and text and participate in ways not possible on a small computer screen
• Special needs pupils with physical challenges or behavioural issues benefit from the interactive whiteboard. The large screen and touch-sensitive surface facilitate ICT learning beyond standard keyboard-and-mouse applications, and it can also be used to promote good behaviour

Benefits for educators

The efficient use of technology by educators is essential to successfully enhance classroom learning. Interactive whiteboards can be of great assistance during lesson preparation.

How do interactive whiteboards benefit educators?

• Interactive whiteboards are easy for beginners to walk up and use, shortening lesson integration time
• The technology motivates educators to incorporate and develop more digital and interactive resources into their lessons
• Notes and materials can be saved for review and used next class or next year