Use of Technology Studies of technology use suggest that schools have made rapid progress in acquiring computer technology. Just five years ago the average school had only one computer for every 20 students. Students in poor or high-minority schools have less access to technology than students in other schools. Most teachers have not had the education or training to use technology effectively. Drill and practice software is a major application of computers today, and the dominant application at the elementary level.
Computers play only a modest role in learning for the typical student.
Usage ranges from 30 minutes per student per week at the elementary level, to one hour at high school. Thus, while schools have greater access to technology than ever before, there are significant gaps. Effectiveness of Technology Traditional Applications. A substantial number of studies have been conducted over the past several decades concerning the effectiveness of traditional technology applications such as CAI or drill and practice programs. Students receiving computer-based instruction also enjoy their classes more and have more positive attitudes towards computers.