What parents need to know
After reviewing 126 studies, MIT found that giving students computers and internet access alone doesn’t improve grades or test scores. The promise of technology transforming education has no evidence behind it.
Full Citation
Bulman, G. & Fairlie, R.W. (2019). Technology and Education: Computers, Software, and the Internet. In The Economics of Education (Second Edition), Academic Press.
Publication Type
Systematic academic review published by MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)
What They Studied
MIT researchers conducted a comprehensive systematic review of 126 rigorous studies examining the impact of technology on educational outcomes. The review focused specifically on whether providing students with computers and internet access – the foundation of most school technology initiatives – actually improves academic performance as measured by grades and standardized test scores.
Key Findings
- “Initiatives that expand access to computers and internet alone do not improve kindergarten to 12th grade students’ grades and test scores”
- Across 126 studies analyzed, there was no consistent evidence that simply providing technology improves learning outcomes
- The vast majority of technology interventions showed null or even negative effects on student achievement
- Many studies that initially showed positive results failed to replicate when conducted with more rigorous methodologies
- The promise that technology would “transform” or “revolutionize” education has not materialized in measurable academic improvements
- Simply having access to technology does not translate to better learning – and can often introduce new distractions and problems
- The research suggests that billions spent on school technology may have been better invested in other educational improvements
