Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 February 2007
242 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if an evaluation has been carried out into the use and effectiveness of interactive white boards and into their effectiveness as a teaching and learning tool; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4457/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Centre for Technology in Education (NCTE) has not directly undertaken a formal evaluation into the use and effectiveness of interactive whiteboards as a teaching and learning tool. However, there are a number of projects which involve the use of interactive whiteboards, for example the NCTE is involved in a project which explores the use of different technologies, including whiteboards, in addressing the English curriculum at primary level.
The NCTE's 2005 Census on ICT Infrastructure in Schools found that some 2% of primary schools, 5% of post-primary schools and 3% of special schools had interactive whiteboards.
The NCTE is aware of a growing body of international research on the use of interactive whiteboards and it advises schools on their use. There is a project involving Drumcondra Education Centre, the Computer Education Society of Ireland and the Irish Computer Society which is investigating the effectiveness of using interactive whiteboards in the classroom. This project is in its second year and I understand that its findings will be published.
On a general note, the NCTE is preparing advice on the appropriate equipment specification for schools and the role of interactive whiteboards will be addressed in that context.
