What is Online Multi-User Whiteboards

The first part of this chapter discusses the transformative potential of Interactive Whiteboards (IWBs), by analyzing the opportunities of using this technology in conjunction with Web 2.0 tools to support constructivist practice in the language classroom. The second part draws upon research data and literature review results to examine the role played by teachers in the realization of this potential. A special focus has been placed on the various evolutionary stages that teachers go through as they integrate IWB technology into their teaching. The research data derives from a case study conducted with nine English teachers from a secondary school in Germany. The study was conducted within an interpretative research paradigm, and data were collected via qualitative research instruments, namely interviews, classroom observations and the video recording of one IWB training session. Research findings revealed that the teachers investigated were gradually becoming aware of the transformative potential of IWB technology.