Keeping students engaged can be a challenge for any teacher. Every teacher knows a variety of techniques to captivate students and get them involved in a lesson. Blogger Hanson Grant advises that use of a whiteboard can be a very effective way to promote engagement.
“When it comes to keeping students engaged, and excited to learn, whiteboards get the job done,” Grant writes in a blog at Think Board.
He offers seven tips on how to use whiteboards in the classroom.
Brainstorming — Divide students into groups, each with its own whiteboard. Challenge the students to explore a new subject, with ideas written on the whiteboard.
Q&A Session – Individual whiteboards can be especially helpful for students who are not comfortable being called on.
Vocabulary – The teacher can write words and multiple choice answers of the word meanings, with students writing answers on their whiteboards or paper.
Math Problems – As whiteboards can be easily wiped clean, students who need to “start over” on a math problem can do so.
“Pictionary” – Use a whiteboard for a version of the popular game, focusing on vocabulary or upcoming test material.
One-on-One — Work on a whiteboard one-on-one with students who are struggling.
Spelling – For younger students who participate in spelling bees and quizzes, whiteboards are a great tool.
Read all of Hanson Grant’s advice at the Teach Board website.
Dan Griffin is general manager of EVERWhite, a U.S. manufacturer and seller of whiteboards and tack boards used for teaching, coaching, planning, collaboration and tracking. Along with his expertise in the use of whiteboards, Dan excels in leadership, new product development, business operations, continuous improvement and product marketing. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, with a focus on marketing, from Temple University.
