Task 1

The IWB

The IWB can be in the form of a standalone touchscreen computer or a connectable apparatus with touchpad used to control other computers from a projector.

The IWB came into our schools with the introduction of the Sankore Project in 2011. It was indeed an innovative tool as it brought major changes between the four walls of our classrooms. Teachers were provided training to enable them to make efficient use of the interactive board and its accessories that is the stylus, the tailor-made programs e.g. (in science) which consisted mostly of click/drag/drop activities. we were also trained as to how to use the board e.g. squared board, use of the tools like paint, eraser, magnifier etc. …it was a hallmark in the enhancement of educational practices and resources in our schools.

The integration of IWB in all the subject areas has benefited the main stakeholders in schools from teachers to pupils. The adoption of IWB by teachers has had positive impacts in our classrooms. IWB engages every student in class and spurs their enthusiasm as everyone wants to get involved in the learning process. Even shy and introvert pupils get positively involved. In the long run, lessons become more vivid thus keeping pupils active and more productive.

Tools like grid (teaching area, symmetry, line graph in math) facilitate task of teachers and topics can be explained more easily. Import (pictures/videos/resource materials) from the internet enhance our teaching and learning. Worksheets and resource materials can be saved for later use.

Projection of eBooks is beneficial to teachers as it is much easier to keep children focused for example on a text in languages, lay emphasis on a keyword in a word problem in mathematics or highlighting the main ideas in science and History/Geography.

It is also in line with the policy of the government (through the NCF) to develop Mauritius into a cyber island. This is the first step towards it, isn’t it?

But is the IWB being used efficiently in our schools or has it been reduced as a mere tool for projecting E books? There are certainly various limitations and challenges in the use of IWB in schools.

Firstly, the willpower and engagement of senior educators to changes who are unconversant with the tool and unwilling to go along with the changes. They prefer their traditional way of teaching. Moreover, the IWB is reduced to projecting eBooks only, by teacher and there is not enough “exploitation” of the tool.

Teachers also come across faulty devices and accessories for example issues with laptops, chargers (for EDLP program), faulty headsets and not enough and appropriate resource materials are provided.

With the phasing out of the Sankore project, no more training and workshops are organized for new teachers. (although workshop for EDLP is still being practiced).

However, these limitations must not be barriers and excuses for not adopting it in our classrooms and at the same time depriving our pupils of their opportunities to equal education for all.