Summary:
This YouTube video discusses the practical classroom tip of storing spare mini-whiteboard pen lids to avoid loss. The conversation then expands to a broader discussion of the widespread use of mini-whiteboards in primary education, noting their prevalence and versatility across various subjects for over two decades, despite some resistance from secondary educators. The speakers highlight their historical integration into primary teaching methods, comparing them to Victorian slates. Finally, they touch upon the ongoing debate and varied opinions surrounding mini-whiteboard use on social media platforms like Twitter.
What are the implications for teachers?
Based on the provided source, here are some implications for teachers regarding the use of mini-whiteboards:
- Organization and Efficiency: Teachers can improve classroom efficiency by implementing organizational strategies for whiteboard use. A specific method is to have designated boxes for whiteboards, pens, erasers, and importantly, a separate box for spare lids. This ensures that lids are not lost, and the classroom operates more smoothly.
- Accessibility: Teachers can place the whiteboards and pens by the door, allowing students to pick them up as they enter. This eliminates the need for teachers to hand them out, saving time.
- Prevalence in Primary Education: Mini-whiteboards are very common in primary school classrooms. They are used for various activities including quick responses in math, handwriting practice, and note-taking in literacy. Teachers should expect that mini-whiteboards will likely be part of their teaching experience in primary settings.
- Potential Pitfalls: While mini-whiteboards are popular, they can sometimes be used ineffectively. Some teachers may find the lids and pens problematic, and dirty cuffs are a reality of whiteboard use in primary school. Teachers need to be aware that they are not always used perfectly, and might be used as a “rather rubbish prop” sometimes.
- Historical Context: Mini-whiteboards in primary schools can be seen as a modern version of the slate boards used in Victorian classrooms. Teachers may find this context helpful in understanding their current use.
- Teacher Perspectives: While mini-whiteboards are generally well-liked by primary teachers, there may be some secondary teachers who do not like them. The source indicates that primary teachers might have some complaints about lids and pens, but they are generally accepted.
- Evolution of Use: The use of mini-whiteboards in primary schools started in math in the late 1990s and then became incorporated into all areas of primary practice. This background may help a teacher appreciate the established role that whiteboards have.
- Debate and Discussion: The source mentions a debate on Twitter about the use of whiteboards, with some educators loving them and others having concerns. Teachers might be interested in engaging with those kinds of discussions.
