Do eSchools Work?
I spend a lot of time promoting and defending ubiquitous technology models in my role as an instructor. In doing so, I’m careful to focus on the pedagogy of successful programs rather than on the technology itself. Recent school history is replete with examples of schools spending money on technology but ignoring professional development–a pitiful combination that usually results in huge expenditures, underutilized technology, frustrated teachers, a resentful public, and test scores more or less the same as they have always been.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Planned systems based on a clear, shared vision, teacher and community buy-in, strategic partnerships, and professional development can deliver stunning results in student achievement and professional commitment. There are many studies that confirm the efficacy of ubiquitous computing models from elementary through secondary schools all over the US. As educators, we are often called on to provide evidence that e-schools can work. Finding this evidence can be a time-consuming task, but thanks to an article in the June 2007 print issue of eSchool News, educators and advocates of technology in schools can get a leg up on the process.
In today’s entry I am going to summarize the issue’s links to studies and resources regarding the success of eSchools. The full story has additional reporting that is worth reading. Subscriptions to eSchool News are free to most educators. It’s probably the only print publication I regularly read from cover to cover.
The Evidence
“Although technology has largely had a positive impact on education so far, more dedication to research and implementation is needed for technology to realize its full potential as a teaching and learning tool.”
Small Arkansas program receives national recognition for technology excellence.
Shared Leadership Makes an IMPACT in North Carolina
Teacher Development is a Key to Tech Success
Online Field Trips Boost Reading Scores
Video on Demand Boosts Students’ Math Scores
Studies Validate Laptop Programs in US, Canada
eSchool News Story | Read the Reports: One Two
Missouri’s Ed Tech Program is Raising Student Achievement
Study: Technology Boosts Student Performance
Strong media Centers Boost Students’ Test Scores
ETS Study Shows Computers Can Help..or Hurt…Learning
Study Links Technology to Student Achievement: Comprehensive Research Documents Learning Gains
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