school focus
sound with pictures), problem solving and creativity (2Draw). IWBs along with suitable software and appropriate planning can make abstract concepts of science and numeracy a visual treat. They enhance the lessons with vibrancy of multimedia-which can address all learning styles and intelligences. They are great for all the stages of a lesson-be it the lesson starter or the plenary. Or it can be used just for display, for example, promoting reading by showcasing e-books on screen makes the books come alive. And students can interact with the story by annotating, recording voice-over, twisting traditional tales-the list can go on.
Sharing the Learning Working with IWBs encourages students to overcome any fear of handling technology. As the IWB basically displays hardware, the students use it for sharing their work, presenting results, making rubrics, doing peer-assessment and showcasing their research. The interac-
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tivity of the board makes the students feel in-charge and in full control. The empowerment boosts their confidence level and in the peer-assessment sessions, tactful delivery of observations and positive criticism have been given and received amicably!
Peripherals that Enhance the Experience Teachers and students using the IWB can be sufficiently mobile, unlike working on the computer. Mobility can be improved further by using peripherals like wireless keyboard and mouse, ActiVote, ActivExpression, etc. ActivSlates facilitate classroom engagement from any corner of the room. This wireless, fully integrated tablet encourages classroom engagement and takes student participation to another level. Besides, the web-cam attached to the IWB can be used to showcase science experiments, slide observations and art brush strokes.
Assessment The IWB supports a vital strand of ICT in the National Curriculum- Reviewing, modifying and evaluating work as it progresses. Several versions of work with annotations can be saved for the students to critically evaluate their work and also reflect on their responses. The IWBs used with learner response systems (ActiVote) show immediate feedback, thus endorsing feedback being timely and immediate. ActivExpression is also a LRS device which helps to make assessment a selfreflection process. \\ Author
Deepti Sawhney ICT Coordinator, Primary, The British School