Interactive whiteboards (IWBs) are a relatively new phenomena to grace the education sector and are appearing in an increasing numbers of schools. They have been cited as being captivating enough to successfully compete with a student’s favourite consumer technologies. This is an opportunity we cannot afford to pass in facilitating positive teaching and learning experiences for students with learning disabilities!

IWBs are one of the most exciting and engaging teaching and learning tools to have entered the special education sector in many years. I have a passion for supporting teachers to embed interactive whiteboards in their practice. Interactive Whiteboards are only as effective as the teacher using them so investing in ongoing support and access to the technology is crucial. Research has cited the many benefits of IWBs on the learning opportunities of all students. For students with a range of learning disabilities an IWB provides a Big Learning Space with an element of magic which automatically motivates and engages them. If used as an innovative tool to teach and learn it can and does create an abundance of amazing learning experiences and opportunities. Opportunities, moreover, that are fun, challenging, motivating and enable students with learning disabilities access to increased achievement, empowerment and greater ownership of their own learning.

Schools working with students with a range of special educational needs are frequently faced with the challenge of meeting differentiated learning needs and learning styles within a group/class. This presentation will demonstrate using examples of students working interactively and enthusiastically with IWBs and ways of creating simple resources to provide appropriate, accessible and meaningful learning experiences for all students.

Grasp this opportunity and grow with the technology. It is the technology of the future! Come and be inspired!