http://teacherleaders.typepad.com/the_tempered_radical/2010/02/what-id-buy-instead-of-an-interactive-whiteboard.html
It's a great piece, and it does make you think about not putting "all your technology eggs in one basket"! I think we have resisted doing that at our school, and sometimes it seems to our detriment, but then again maybe not? I personally think we should look at some of the things my friend from Raleigh suggests, and not just automatically go for the "classroom solution".
I understand that the WS/FCS school district's "classroom solution" for Middle School's does NOT include an Interactive WhiteBoard for Middle and High Schools, but instead opts for LCD TV's with airliners attached to a fully equiped technology station with a document camera and speaker/sound system. I am still on the fence as to whether or not these TV's are better than projectors, but I see the benefits of not mounting projectors whose bulbs go out frequently and cost a fortune!
We will see if a bond ends up on the ballot in November, and if the school system asks for these classroom solutions for all classrooms in WS/FCS...
But, I like the way this guy from Raleigh thinks...I think we need more "stationed" type activities going on in classrooms that are student centered. He is right; an interactive white board does not necessarily give you that student centered learning approach!
Just some things to consider and think about :)
