Muscat, Feb 24
As education becomes smart, interactive screens are replacing traditional whiteboards in classrooms. With the increasing integration of technology in schools, two questions arise: do students, teachers and parents prefer smart screens or the traditional one? Should interactive screens completely replace traditional whiteboards in schools?
For many years ago, the traditional whiteboard has been an essential part of the classroom. But these screens have its limitations where students in the back may struggle to see clearly. And once a lesson is erased, the information is lost.
On the other hand, interactive screens offer a completely different learning experience. They allow teachers to present lessons in a more dynamic and visual way, using videos, animations and digital presentations. Students can engage with the material through a simple touch, making learning more interactive and exciting. Not only that, these smart screens can be a television and a Web browser too to enrich the learning experience!
When asked about their preferences, most students favour interactive screens over traditional whiteboards. Ali al Balushi, a ninth grade student, said, “Interactive screens make lessons more enjoyable. We can watch educational videos and interact with the teacher directly, which helps us understand concepts better.” Fai al Mani, in grade twelve, highlighted the convenience of digital learning: “I don’t like using whiteboard because it is boring and nothing attracts me to continue the lesson whereas with smart boards, we can interestingly learn and share ideas with colours, sound and clips. No need to use markers or get annoyed with the smell of the ink or erasing the ink and waste time too. With interactive screens, we can learn without any discomfort.”
While students are excited about technology, some teachers see challenges in a complete transition to interactive screens. Khalid al Maamari, a mathematics teacher, pointed out: “Technology is a great tool, but teachers need proper training to use it effectively as this technology can drive them to be lazy and just copy paste too.”
On the other hand, Maha al Zadjali, an English teacher, believes that interactive screens are a necessity rather than a luxury. She said, “They help me deliver lessons in more creative and comfortable ways. Students are more engaged and involved, making learning more effective.”
Parents also have various opinions. Lateefa al Harthy, a parent of an elementary school student, said, “I fully support the use of interactive screens because they help my son learn in modern different ways. However, I hope handwriting is not completely forgotten.”
Meanwhile, Maha al Amri, a mother of a primary school student, voiced her concerns saying, “I worry that relying too much on screens might affect children’s handwriting skills. I am afraid too that my child is using these smart screens in a negative way with his friends. Children need to be exposed to the world of interactive screens, but I can’t deny that learning has become more engaging for them."
As Oman continues to invest in education, replacing traditional whiteboards with interactive screens in public schools seems like a step towards the future. However, for this transition to be successful, teachers need proper training, regular maintenance must be ensured, and technology should complement, rather than completely replace traditional teaching methods.
Interactive screens open new doors for education, but they are not a perfect substitute on their own.
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