EASTERN – Teachers at Duff Elementary are utilizing new technology to help make learning a fun and interactive experience in the classroom.

The school recently used $25,000 in stimulus funds to purchase Eno Whiteboards. The touch-screen boards provide students with hands-on education, including allowing them to circle words on the screen with their fingers or a special pen, and playing the piano on the screen in music class.

An interactive whiteboard connects to a computer and projector. A projector projects the computer’s desktop on the surface of the board. Users are able control the computer using a pen, finger or other device.

“It’s a new way to teach,” said Tonya Goodman, principal. “Children today are bombarded with videos and technology, and these boards will serve as a benefit for years to come. The kids learn so quickly. They are very comfortable with technology.”

Ceci Prater, music teacher for Duff Elementary and Allen Central Middle School, is enamored with the technology, using it to help students play piano and transcribe music on the screen. When Prater plays her piano, the Whiteboard will transcribe the musical notes on the screen for the students to see.

“I love my technology,” Prater said.

All of the teachers at Duff Elementary use the Whiteboards, and Goodman said the response from teachers and students has been extremely positive.

“We’ve only had them for two or three weeks,” Goodman said. “It’s up and running very, very well. The teachers are learning as they go.”

Goodman said the decision to use the stimulus funds to purchase the Whiteboards was a quick one, and she is very pleased with the results.

“Whatever it takes, our kids are worth it,” Goodman said.