The Victorian Interactive whiteboard project began this term with 55 teachers from 16 different schools participating. Teachers came from as far as Harrietville and Maffra to contribute to two days of professional development which included technical training as well as action planning for the use of interactive whiteboards in the classroom.

Footscray City College have provided a training room and the ANSN in partnership with Commander will develop research around the question ‘Can interactive whiteboards improve teacher pedagogy and student learning outcomes?'

Teachers have completed plans, identified what it is they need to learn and before Day 3 will collect evidence of the effects of their practice on student learning. The learning community established on Days 1 and 2 will share its successes and questions on the discussion list provided by the ANSN.

Reflections from participants:

I think:

• The past two days have been great
• My mind is sooooo full I can't think!! A whole new world has opened and after 30 years I feel really excited about teaching and shall put off retiring for a few more years
• I've learnt a lot but feel a bit overwhelmed at the moment
• The IWB potential is endless
• This will be fantastic in the classroom. Useful, practical, world at my fingertips

I feel:

• Excited and eager to begin
• Keen to go back and get going
• Tired – want time to reflect, think of ideas away from tools
• Enthusiastic
• Far more confident than I did yesterday

I will:

• Work with others to share our knowledge and work
• Make sure the kids and I have great fun
• Give it my best amongst tight time restraints
• Share my learnings with interested colleagues
• Use the board as much as possible before the next session

If you would like more information or if your school is interested in taking part in the next IWB project please contact Andrea Federico