Pixel International Conferences

An interactive whiteboard generates many challenges and opportunities for foreign language teaching and learning. It enriches learning environment; reduces learners´ anxiety and increases their self-confidence; provides learners with more choice and stimulates learners´ autonomy. On the other hand, we should be aware of some drawbacks, such as an inappropriate use; low school budgets or teachers´ reluctance to accept new approaches. The purpose of this paper is to discuss and present the analysis of the use of IWBs in EFL teaching from in-service teachers’ perspective, applying SWOT analysis in a specific Slovak socio-educational environment.  The findings gathered via questionnaire and face to face interviews have indicated that the participants (n=46) value as the foremost strengths followings: a rise of interactions and class discussions, accepting various learning styles, an increase in creativity and motivation, sharing and re-using of materials and saving some work. Some of the weaknesses are that the respondents lacked the previous training and experience; no evidence of effectiveness of teaching and learning; teachers´ unwillingness when using new technologies; overuse of IWBs; time consuming preparation; challenging problem solving and unexpected shutdowns.

Keywords: English as a Foreign Language. SWOT Analysis. Interactive Whiteboard. In service teachers;