The Benefits & Drawbacks of Integrating Cloud Computing and Interactive Whiteboards in Teacher Preparation

Abstract

Twenty-first century technology has changed the way tools are used to support and enhance learning and instruction. Cloud computing and interactive white boards, make it possible for learners to interact, simulate, collaborate, and document learning experiences and real world problem-solving. This article discusses how various technologies (blogs, wikis, GoogleDocs, and interactive white boards) have been used at one private university in teacher preparation courses. Authors discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each tool for students and faculty and how technologies are made user-friendly for learners of different technology ability. Authors highlight tool usage and issues encountered by students and faculty and how the use of these tools can be useful for the students in their careers. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media, Inc.