| The purpose of this study is to investigate the presence of interactive whiteboards in media centers throughout Minnesota. The study determines how interactive whiteboards are used and the effect of training on the use of the board. Data was gathered from a sampling of schools, interactive whiteboard vendors, and university media specialist programs throughout the state of Minnesota. The results of the study show that schools are implementing interactive whiteboard technology, but not consistently in the media centers of the schools. When the interactive whiteboards are in the media center, more people in the school are able to access the technology. The study also shows that media specialists are intermediate to advanced users of technology, and are therefore assumed to need less training on new technology. Although these media specialists are upper end technology users, many do not feel that they are adequately trained on the interactive whiteboard technology in their schools. Many people who are teaching themselves to use the interactive whiteboard do not feel adequately trained. Regardless of the type of training, most people are using the interactive whiteboards for skill instruction and presentation, not for interactive learning activities. This research demonstrates a need for an increase in interactive whiteboard technology in media centers and increased training options for media specialists using the boards. |
