International experiences with intergrating interactive whiteboards: Policy, practice, pedagogy and professional development

Abstract

This chapter describes teacher strategies and experiences with interactive whiteboards (IWBs) and draws on the published research in this area to understand how a systemic approach to technology-based innovations in schools can contribute to quality education for all. It explores ways to support the cultural shift in teacher and learner roles that helps to integrate the technology effectively into classroom teaching. It begins by considering how the features of IWB technology might potentially be exploited in the primary or secondary school classroom to support subject teaching and learning. International experiences of implementing IWB programs are then described, mostly from the United Kingdom where integration efforts are by far the most prominent to date, and implications for future intervention efforts are examined. The chapter concludes by outlining the organisational conditions likely to enhance teacher commitment and thus to lead to successful change. In particular, the role of teacher professional development is foregrounded and characteristics of effective programmes are outlined. The chapter aims to offer messages to researchers, policy makers and practitioners.