With so many clever ways to weave technology into lesson plans these days, it may seem like the days of the traditional wall chart are numbered. Interactive whiteboards have not been a flash in the pan. They have proved their usefulness in the classroom time after time and many primary school children are now unable to remember a time when interactive whiteboards were not a regular part of their learning!

As technology develops even further, the ways that interactive whiteboards can be used constantly multiply, so is there any room left for traditional classroom resources like the humble wall chart, flashcards or learning times tables by rote?

Do Whiteboards Waste Time?

It could be argued that interactive whiteboards waste a substantial amount of time in comparison to a handy resource like a wall chart. Unlike a simple wall chart, teachers require an awful lot of training in order to become whiteboard whiz kids. To be able to use interactive whiteboard resources seamlessly and flexibly in a classroom, it is essential that teachers know their way around the software like it is the back of their hand.

Many teachers will have instances they can relate in which their lesson was held up by technical hitches and issues with software. This is one reason that there is still a place for traditional resources in the classroom. While an interactive whiteboard can very easily go on the blink, a wall chart or an informative poster is a simple display of information. Not only do these serve as handy fall backs when classroom technology goes awry but they can provide educational stimulation permanently, whilst brightening up the classroom at the same time!

Could Whiteboards Actually Limit Creativity?

This is a little bit of a contentious question. In a number of ways, yes. However, one of the key benefits of interactive learning resources is that they give fast access to lots of information, allowing teachers to follow the interests and enthusiasms of the class.

Unfortunately, the extent to which interactive resources allow creative teaching depends entirely on the software - how wide and varied it is in terms of subject matter - and how easy it is for the teacher to use.

Relying on technology to educate certainly can put a hamper on creative learning. Going technology-free and relying on old-school resources such as the simple wall chart or the school library forces pupils to think for themselves, and outside of the box. Whilst interactive materials guide and, to an extent, limit the directions students think, a wall chart and related materials serve as a 'jumping off point' for learning.

For these, and many more reasons, traditional resources are not dead. A simple wall chart can make a big impact in the classroom and the school library can be a big inspiration for your class.

If you're looking for a wall chart to inspire your students and brighten up your classroom, Daydream Education are a leading company producing intelligently designed wall chart products alongside interactive resources too! Find out more at: http://www.daydreameducation.co.uk