Weblog of Wesley Fryer

This is the comment I left on Doug’s post linked above:

I appreciate your pushback on this Doug. I will readily admit some of my more recent thinking on IWB’s has been colored by some pretty extremist views on them. I do agree that games can be enthralling and even engaging for students depending on how they’re used. I guess I’m seeing IWB’s used in many cases in ways that only support teacher-directed instruction, and that sort of use isn’t where I personally think the uses of IWB’s should stop. This photograph and encouragement can support that sort of limited view of the utility of IWBs.

I’ve taught workshops and shared presentations previously which are focused on how to use IWB’s to engage and enthrall students. I do see both sides of this discussion. I’ve felt a bit burned, perhaps, by some recent blog comments (not by you, by others) where I’ve been painted (or at least felt I’ve been painted) as a traitor to the cause of learner-centered education by suggesting that IWB’s can be used effectively to support instruction.

As with many situations a balanced view on IWB’s is more appropriate than an extremist perspective, I think. To suggest this to some people, or to recognize simultaneously the potential value of IWB’s while also pointing out that they should not be used exclusively to support teacher-directed instruction can be viewed as hypocritical and self-contradictory.

I’m teaching a 5th grade Sunday school class this year and am getting to use an IWB each week. I plan to use some interactive games on it to get students involved actively in what we are learning. You’re right, kids often love games like this. Interactive games on a whiteboard may be used in ways which get students more involved in a lesson activity than they might be traditionally just sitting at their desks.

I’m not sure if my comments and train of thought here is helpful or not. I do see your point, and admit that my comment on this photo is extremist. That view does not reflect the complete spectrum of my opinions about IWBs.

Doug: I appreciated the chance to share this reflection because it is something that has been on my mind a fair bit in the past few weeks. You’re certainly right about sometimes when we take a stand in the middle. I do appreciate being challenged from different vantage points, because it helps me think differently about ideas– but it can be taxing particularly if there are not other voices lending support or sharing opposing views to those on the extreme / fringe.

I think sometimes when a person takes a strong stand on an issue it may dissuade others from chiming in, even if they have a less fervent and more moderate position.

I agree that the focus on the use of the device or tool is key. This reminds me of the “Toolishness is Foolishness” article from Jamie McKenzie back in 2001.