The same is true in the workplace. Technology has reshaped America's offices, factories, retail establishments, and research institutions. Many educators believe it is the silver bullet of school reform. College and university faculty regard it as a requirement for postsecondary success. And corporate America considers it a mandatory part of preparation for the workplace.
Technology is also the topic du jour among lawmakers.
Unlike other educational issues such as school choice or national standards, there is strong bipartisan support for technology. Recently, the President, Vice President, and a host of state governors from both political parties, endorsed technology as a necessary tool for education. At last year's national education summit, governors and business leaders made improving educational technology one of the two main goals for school change. Dollars have followed this high level leadership. Although the dividends that educators can expect from this investment are not yet clear from research, many people are unwilling to wait for the definitive large-scale study before getting on board.