The impact of interactive whiteboards on students' attitudes toward applied mathematics

Previous research suggests that students enrolled in Applied Mathematics courses in Grades 9 and 10 have less than positive attitudes about the subject. Evidence from other studies suggests that the use of interactive whiteboard (IWB) technology may enhance students' attitudes toward mathematics. This study examines the relationship between the inclusion of IWB technology in Applied Mathematics courses and six components comprising students' attitudes toward mathematics. The final sample consisted of 513 students enrolled in 36 Grades 9 and 10 Applied Mathematics classes in nine high schools within an Ontario school district. Comparisons of the attitudes of students who received instruction in classes with IWB technology (n = 287) with the attitudes of students who received instruction in classes without IWB technology (n = 226) suggest that the inclusion of IWB technology alone may not significantly impact students' attitudes toward Applied Mathematics.