It is this second purpose that is the focus of this course. Surprisingly, this use of the computer as a productivity tool may be the most powerful use of the computer in the classroom. Used as a tool, the computer is especially effective in supporting constructivist learning environments. In these environments, students find, organize, and present information in order to solve authentic problems. Often, students work on these projects collaboratively.
Some researchers view instructional media as delivery vehicles.
No matter what the vehicle, the instruction remains essentially the same, and it is often shown to be equally effective. Delivering instruction in a new, shiny, technologically enhanced package does not necessarily increase learning at all. When used as a tool, however, the computer enables children to create more polished products more efficiently. For example, many children begin to write, discard their attempts, and begin again. The editing capabilities of the word processor allow them to revise, rather than discard, their work.