Material development to raise awareness of using smart boards: an example design and development research

Abstract

This study aims to develop training material that will help raise awareness in prospective teachers regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. In this study, a Type 2 design and development research method (DDR) was used. The material was developed by applying phases of ADDIE - an instructional systems design model. The development process was informed by Mayer's multimedia design principles and Gagne's instructional events. The subject and the target group of the research was defined at the stage of needs analysis. Powtoon, an online content development tool, was used to produce multimedia material with the aim of raising awareness regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. An expert instructional designer guided the entire process of the material development. Upon completion of the development phase, three field experts were consulted and improvements were then conducted in compliance with their suggestions. Next, the material was presented to 39 teacher candidates. After they reviewed the material, their opinions were collected. These opinions were analyzed under four aspects: message, visual, sound, and overall effect. The material reached its final form following the applications of ameliorations in line with observations conducted during its application and the feedback given by the teacher candidates. Participants of the study stated that the material, on the whole, was impressive, beneficial, and captivating.