Please give some more detailed information on IWB.

The use of IWB (Interactive white board) in the classroom is gaining overwhelming popularity in the era of  technology cult.  More and more academic institution are integrating smart board technology despite the fact it is expensive.  Research shows that bringing IWB into the classroom means to connect the learners with the whole world, particularly when internet is used to have an access to the online knowledge and information.  As for English language teaching and learning, IWB function as a catalyst to enhance communicative skill.  Listening, speaking and reading skills are marvelously augmented. Writing at lower level , particularly for small children is also aided by the use of IWBs.  But at higher level, writing skill, is a different phenomenon.  I have also explored research data on the net and I have found very few paper regarding the effectiveness of IWBs for writing skills. So this area needs to be explored and that is why I have put forth this question.