Those numbers, however, are not different enough to be considered statistically significant. According to my findings, the internet is no better or worse than classroom handouts, at least as far as retention and work quality are concerned. This study is neither an endorsement nor an indictment of the internet's use in the classroom. Used properly, the internet can be a powerful tool for the social studies classroom. A tool, mind you, not a miracle worker.
Teachers have the potential to access all kinds of information on the web.
Students can be challenged in a number of different ways to find information, sort through it, and form coherent ideas based on what they do find. The internet is no different that a good encyclopedia, and teachers must understand that. If students are properly positioned, and teachers are designing sound lessons, the materials available on the web can aid the average social studies classroom tremendously. But don't expect miracles. The notion that computers will automatically make our students smarter, more successful, or more capable is a false one.