Preparing Students for Success in a Changing World: The Role of Virtual Whiteboards in the Modern Classroom

Information communication and technologies (ICT) as a facilitator of active learning (AL) in higher education is becoming an increasingly important tool. One of the most significant developments with the use of ICT in higher education over the last decade has been the integration and application of e-learning systems to support the processes of teaching and learning. The implementation of ICT into the classroom should not be seen as merely an add-on, but should be included with purpose: meaningfully implemented based on pedagogy. Despite the suggested power of ICT in educating students for a modern future, the implementation of these technologies into the classroom is not as widespread as expected; debate still abounds as to what role ICT should play in the classroom. This research examined a variety of dependable attributes that assessed the engagement of undergraduate students (n1=87) through virtual whiteboards. This quantitative inquiry revealed that students perceived virtual whiteboards as beneficial for their learning and improved their engagement level in the classroom. Furthermore, a correlation between the level of engagement and the year of study was revealed as the primary implication of this research.