Computer labs have a number of drawbacks. In a lab setting, the computer is learned apart from other subjects and activities. It is much more difficult to integrate technology into other areas of the curriculum within the lab setting. The computer becomes a separate course or activity, rather than a tool used to enhance learning in other areas. Time limits are another disadvantage to computer labs.
Most educators have an assigned time to use the lab.
This restricted access limits activities a teacher can conduct with students. The time limits affect students, too. Scheduled time to conduct research in a lab a few times a week doesn't allow ample time to work on projects. Even the physical location of computer labs causes problems in many schools. It is just too inconvenient to have educators take away from their classroom time to shuttle students down the hall or to another part of the school.