Home Computers and Student Achievement

[Commentary] Can a home computer be introduced in such a way that it will support a more effective home-learning environment and, in turn, improve academic achievement?

Evaluations of programs run by the Texas Education Agency, through its Technology Immersion Pilot, and the nonprofit group Computers for Youth suggest that home computers can in fact produce better students and improve test scores. Half the student cohorts examined showed statistically significant gains in reading and math, with effect sizes of 8 percent of a standard deviation for reading, and 16 percent to 20 percent for math. The math effect sizes were particularly noteworthy, being similar in size to those cited in studies examining Head Start, Teach For America, and improvement programs in teacher quality. The other cohorts also showed gains, albeit not statistically significant ones. The study also found that the strongest predictor of student' reading and math scores was the amount of time they used their computers outside of school for homework or for learning games.

While the importance of the home-learning environment remains unquestioned, past innovations in this area haven't managed to budge the needle on student performance. Yet the recent experiences of these and other programs, combined with continuing advances in technology, should inspire educators and policymakers to explore anew the promise of leveraging home learning to improve student achievement. We owe it to ourselves to go beyond simple talking points and long-held assumptions to tackle this area of learning that holds so much promise for helping students reach their full potential, in school and beyond.

[Stock is CEO of Computers for Youth. Fisman is an economist at Columbia Business School]