Running with technology: the pedagogic impact of the large-scale introduction of interactive whiteboards in one secondary school

Abstract

This article reports on the impact on teaching of the introduction of interactive whiteboard technology into one secondary comprehensive school. It uses research evidence from a whole-staff questionnaire and in-depth structured interviews with one third of the staff. It outlines the views of both staff and students and describes the use, learning and teaching implications, problems and potential of the technology. Findings are related to two typologies – that of use as an aid to efficiency, extension or transformation in teaching, and that of teacher attitudes as missioners, tentatives or Luddites. It concludes that problems with use and limited impact on learning and teaching are more likely to occur where teachers fail to appreciate that interactivity requires a new approach to pedagogy. Training and personal development involving coaching and mutually reflective activity is of the greatest help to staff