Mini-White Boards: Where They Maximize Student Learning, Where They Don’t

This conversation delves into the use of mini whiteboards in educational settings, exploring their benefits, challenges, and the cognitive science behind their effectiveness. Educators share their experiences and insights on implementing mini whiteboards to enhance student engagement and understanding, while also addressing potential pitfalls and the importance of routines in their use. Follow on Twitter: @AmberBHaven | @AndrewWatsonTTB | @bamradionetwork | @jonHarper70bd Related Resources: White Board Tips | I Was Wrong About Whiteboards | More tools and Tips Amber Haven is a STEM educator, speaker, and advocate for evidence-informed teaching with over 15 years of classroom experience. She is dedicated to refining her own practice while translating and showcasing evidence-informed strategies in authentic classroom settings. Dylan Kane is a 7th grade math teacher at a rural public school in Colorado. He writes a Substack called Five Twelve Thirteen about the intersection of evidence-informed practice and the realities of classroom teaching. Andrew Watson has been teaching since 1988, studying brains since 2008, and combining those fields since 2012. As a consultant and conference speaker, he works with students and teachers to make learning easier and teaching more effective. Author of three books, he writes frequently on memory, attention, motivation, and skepticism." Brett Benson teaches 7th grade World Studies at a middle school in Omaha, Nebraska. He serves as our social studies department head. Last year he started the “CogSci PLC” at his school to help study the science of learning and evidence-based practices and strategies with teachers throughout the building . Last year the PLC focused on retrieval practice and working this year on Rosenshine’s principles of instruction. He has been teaching for 18 years. Keywords mini whiteboards, education, teaching strategies, classroom engagement, cognitive science, instructional choices, formative assessment, student participation, teaching tools, learning support Takeaways Mini whiteboards can quickly gauge student understanding. They support various instructional strategies across subjects. Effective use requires clear routines and expectations. Overuse can lead to distractions and disengagement. They provide immediate feedback for teachers. Cognitive load management is crucial when using them. Not the only tool for checking understanding; variety is key. Engagement is enhanced when students feel safe to share. Assessment for learning is more effective than assessment of learning. Intentional questioning is vital for maximizing their benefits. Quotables "How can teachers use whiteboards effectively?" "Routines make mini whiteboards effective." "Be intentional about what you're looking for." Chapters 00:00 Exploring Mini Whiteboards in Education 06:51Practical Applications and Benefits 13:33 Challenges and Limitations of Mini Whiteboards 19:53 Cognitive Science Perspectives on Whiteboards 25:53 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts