Evaluation of the usage of information technologies in the schools included to Fatih Project by means of classroom management

In the current century information and communication technologies have been used in almost every area of life. Information and communication technologies related content has become one of the most essential course materials. FATİH Project can be considered and is highly expected to provide equality of opportunity in education and training, to improve instructional technology and ensure effective use of ICT in the lessons. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the use of information technology in schools on the classroom management. The study was designed in qualitative research method and interview techniques were used to gather data. The study group consisted of fifteen teachers who work in the schools in which FATİH Project (interactive whiteboards and tablet computer) was implemented in Antalya. The interviews were carried on with the help of semi-structured interviews' form in which open-ended questions including probe questions were asked. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive analysis. First of all, the data were prepared for the analysis. In the second stage the interviews were coded and in the third stage themes were derived out of these codes. According to the findings obtained from the study, teachers' made use of the interactive whiteboard technology very often and included this kind of content in their classes, lesson plans, and classroom activities. It was found that teachers use interactive whiteboards mostly for their lectures, presentations and video shows. Teachers stated that using interactive whiteboard technology they saved time and use the time more effectively. The majority of teachers reported that the use of interactive whiteboards increased communication among students, affected the classroom atmosphere positively and increased attendance by ensuring more motivation. Research obtained from further analysis, however, showed that failures and loss of time were experienced because of technical problems. Content of the information technology were believed not to meet students' needs and interest. Another finding was that students used the tablets for such as game playing etc. The findings showed that because the classrooms were different form one another, important problems occurred and stated. Consequently, as a result of using interactive whiteboards, classroom management was affected positively and teachers felt that they were more successful in classroom management than they gained success in traditional teaching models. The interviews showed also that tablet computers were not used for instructional purposes as it was expected. Therefore, in order to use the tablets affectively the contents of the courses must be designed and organized accordingly and they must include information attractive for the students. Keywords: interactive whiteboard, tablet computers, FATİH Project