What is IWB all about?
IWB is an Interactive Whiteboard which is defined as a large touch screen sensitive board which is connected to the digital projector and a computer. It may bee controlled by either directly touching on the board or by using a special pen without the need of assistance from a mouse or a keyboard.
Advantages of using IWB
Similar to conventional/traditional whiteboard
Due to the IWB being similar towards the conventional whiteboard that we have been using for the past decades, even technophobic teachers are able to manage using this TEL with ease. Mainly because it allows the teacher to be able to write on the screen. It also enables teacher to write on the projected image that he/she wants to show the class, hence, easier produces a cleare illustration in the topic that the teacher is teaching.
Enhance presentation
Due to the features which IWB consists, it allows teachers to incorporate a vast range of materials into the lesson. Teachers are able to intergrate pictures from the internet, graph from spreadsheet or text from microsoft word. It allows annotation for students and teacher as well.
Broaden use of E-Learning
IWB conveys a different perception of E-Learning because it has the ability for a vast mode of delivery. Majority has thought that E-Learning is about having an individual to be physically remote to a computer. However, IWB allows a collaborative learning whereby students does not need to have a computer terminal on their own.
Increases pace of lesson
When lesson conducted is in a condusive and interesting manner, students are able to absorb and attain information which they have learnt faster. Since the pace of understanding among students is interrelated to the pace of the lesson plan, it allows the pace of lesson to be faster. Hence, teacher can move on to another topic in the subject.
Create sense of belonging
IWB allows a collborative learning as a whole class without any individual being outcast. Each student can contrubute their ideas during the lesson. Hence, it provide a common understanding among the students.
However, there are also some limitations of using IWB
Expensive cost
The cost of an IWB is expensive compared to the conventional whiteboard. A huge sum of the school fund needs to be invested in order to intergrate IWB in the school
Susceptible to damage
IWB is susceptible to damage due to the sensitivity of the screen. If the screen or any other supporting features are damage, it results to an expensive replacement.
Fixed height-boards
The fixed height board might not be able to cater to those with height deficit because sometimes, the board might be mounted to high for students to reach. It might also be fixed too low to be visible to the class.
Calibration
Sometimes, it might be possible for the writing not to appear on the board when using the smart pen. Hence, rewriting is needed which might take up extra time.
Technical fault
IWB might be susceptible to techincal faults as well. Therefore, it might disrupt the whole lesson and consume time to rectify the matter.
