Being an "agent of civilization" is one of the many roles ascribed to teachers. If we are to have any expectations of producing a well-educated, well-prepared generation of deep-thinking, resourceful leaders, then it is essential to give students an opportunity to review, respond to, and ultimately revere the power of the human imagination-past and present. There may be no better way to promote this than to study, understand, and exult in masterpieces.
This actually works! I don't have a commercial interactive whiteboard, but I am able to get an infrared light pen and a Wii remote set up to use as a cheap substitute. I bought my infrared pen from this source: http://www.wiiteachers.com/ I prop my Wii remote up with a piece of cardboard. Tip: if you're not a tech wiz yourself, borrow a few minutes from your tech aide to help you figure out the software download and Wii calibration.
Students will enjoy the suggested hands-on classroom activities included in these downloadable resources, which will inspire and encourage their own portrait creations.