Today’s Sydney Morning Herald explains that the New South Wales Government plans to introduce electronic whiteboards and web-conferencing to NSW Schools.

“The State Government will install 200 high-tech digital whiteboards in NSW public schools, which it says will “transform the way education is delivered”, over the next year.The interactive whiteboards, along with video-conferencing technology and e-learning tools, will take up $28 million of tomorrow’s 2007-08 state budget.”

From personal experience with web conferencing in education, the “wow factor” these technologies bring is quite effective in engaging students. The key however – and what is indeed the most crucial element – is that use of this technology incorporates a solid pedagogical framework. Without one, a potentially inspiring and thought-provoking educational experience will deteriorate into another mind numbing video game exercise or rambling web-chat.

Reference:

• “Schools to install digital whiteboards“, Sydney Morning Herald, June 18, 2007