Turning Teachers on to Computers

Abstract

This study evaluated a teacher development program designed to introduce educational uses of computers to teachers and to facilitate their integration into classroom activities. The model involved teachers in a school-based, action-research project supported by visits from resource personnel, with clusters of teachers attending two meetings to evaluate their experiences, share ideas, and discuss relevant issues. The model proved to be very successful. Dramatic increases in teacher confidence and, to a lesser extent, competence in computer use were the major outcomes. A strong commitment to continue their use of computers in their teaching was common. Teachers reported their students gaining noticeable cognitive and social benefits from the experience.