Visual Learners

http://www.futurelab.org.uk/resources/publications_reports_articles/web_articles/Web_Article556

This article has already cited about with regards to the the benefits of Interactive White Boards, and other visual display technologies, allowing students to become immersed in their learning environment. I agree with this completely. When I think about the last round of IEPs that I completed, nearly every student that was on an IEP due to a learning disorder had the accommodation of visual cueing systems/organizers. In understanding what works best for those who are visual learners that appropriate use of VDTs only enhances what classroom teachers are already doing to support these kids.
There was a great quote by Alan Kay at the end of the article that I really enjoyed. It said, "The music is not inside the piano". I thought Kay's remarks were a great reminder that access to technology is only a the first step. Understanding how to make best use of the technology is just as important.
This article was from 2004 and cited the infusion of money and technology into the British public school system, particularly around IWBs. I remember in 2002 a delegation of British elementary school principals visiting our school to find out how we were using technology in our classrooms. I remember them being amazed at what we were doing, which in hindsight wasn't overly spectacular. I also remember them saying that all of there classrooms had been outfitted with IWBs but they weren't being used because nobody knew what to do with them, hence the reason for their trip to Canada.