A Case Study: How Young Children and Teachers Use an Interactive Whiteboard in a New Zealand Kindergarten Setting for Visual Art Learning Experiences

Abstract

This case study examines how an interactive whiteboard (IWB) was used in a New Zealand kindergarten to support young children's visual art learning experiences. A qualitative approach was used to investigate the use of the IWB. Data were collected through participant observation, analysis of teachers' narrative assessments of children, and focus group interviews with teachers and parents. A socio-cultural perspective on visual art education for young children provided a framework for analysing and interpreting the data. The findings of the research indicated that when an IWB is integrated into a kindergarten visual art programme it can be a useful tool for motivating and assisting children with visual art learning experiences. The affordances of the IWB allow for some new art experiences to occur that are different from that of traditional art mediums. It was observed, however, that creative art ideas developed with an IWB can be translated into traditional art mediums and vice versa. Problems and issues were also identified in the study, in particular the need for appropriate professional development for teachers to help them maximise the potential of the IWB for early childhood teaching. Areas for further research are discussed, and some recommendations are made for best practice with an IWB for supporting children's visual art learning experiences.