ABSTRACT
Students learn just as well with or without technology as long as the content and methods of instruction are of high quality. Studies that compare the same high-quality instructional content and methods delivered with or without technology show no significant difference between modes of delivery. There is suggestive evidence that blending technology and direct instruction can produce better outcomes than instruction or technology-based learning alone. Technology-based solutions are often touted as an effective means of delivering differentiated instruction and accomplishing personalized learning. Technology-based solutions come with significant administrative overhead. For example, lost or forgotten log-on credentials, failed Internet connections, buggy educational software, Nannyware restrictions, software updates, to name just a few, disrupt learning experiences, cut into instructional time, and often demotivate students. For every dollar spent on technology, schools should budget a minimum of two dollars for curriculum design, training, and technology support. People sometimes find computers, televisions, and telecommunications frustrating because they expect these devices to radiate knowledge.
