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A meta-analysis of the impact of computer technology versus traditional instruction on students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade in US
Resource type
Journal Article
Author/contributor
- Sandy-Hanson, Anika, E (Author)
Title
A meta-analysis of the impact of computer technology versus traditional instruction on students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade in US
Abstract
Meta-analytical research has shown that computer technology can play a significant role
in increasing positive learning outcomes of students. Research on this topic has resulted
in conflicting findings on academic achievement and other measures of student outcomes.
The current meta-analysis sought to assess the level of differences that existed between
students being instructed with computer technology versus the academic achievement
outcomes of students instructed with traditional methods. Based on specified selection
criteria, 31 studies were collected and analyzed for homogeneity. From this original
group, 23 studies were systematically reviewed under standard meta-analytical
procedures. According to Cohen’s (1988) classification of effect sizes in the field of
education, the obtained weighted mean effect size of .24 shows a medium difference.
This finding indicates that students who are taught with technology outperform their
peers who are taught with traditional methods of instruction. In addition, five secondary
analyses were conducted on higher-order thinking skills, ES = .82, motivation, ES = .17,
retention-attendance rates, ES = .16, physical outcomes, no data were found, and social
skills, ES = .21. Eleven ancillary analyses were then conducted to assess study findings
across various dimensions including duration of study, type of technology used, and
grade-level analyzed.
Date
2006
Citation
Sandy-Hanson, A., E. (2006). A meta-analysis of the impact of computer technology versus traditional instruction on students in Kindergarten through twelfth grade in US.
Outcome measure
Instructional domain (subject)
Education Level and Type
Groups of students
School or home
Moderating variables
Tech Hardware
Tech Software
Tech mechanism
Learning Approach
Teacher Pedagogy
Research methods
Effect size/ heterogeneity
HIC/LMIC
Quality of research
Geography if specific
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