ACOT’s research has demonstrated that the introduction of technology to classrooms can significantly increase the potential for learning, especially when it is used to support collaboration, information access, and the expression and representation of students’ thoughts and ideas. Realizing this opportunity for all students, however, requires a broadly conceived approach to educational change that integrates new technologies and curricula with new ideas about learning and teaching, as well as with authentic forms of assessment.

(Source: ACOT )

Of most note in this quite amazing reserach is the following:

Analyses of 1988–89 data indicated that ACOT had considerable personal and professional impact on its teachers. Some teachers appeared to be constructing new interpretations of their own and their students’ abilities and of students’ roles in their own learning. Some had developed higher expectations for their students, and most teachers were quite satisfied with their students’ academic and socio-emotional progress, though some expressed concerns about covering the standard curriculum. Many teachers noted the value of computers in their teaching and the positive impact on their job interest and performance. Many reported improved teacher-student roles and positive feelings of self-worth. Although most teachers experienced personal stress, they reported the challenge and growth to be more significant. attitudes towards learning, and achievement. Home computers were used for school work, games, personal writing, practicing, and graphics.

In our own research at Broadford,with STC and the development of the Information Technology platform to support the development of the community news paper, we can honestly concur with the findings presented here.

Download Complete report : ACOT Assessment (Report #7).

The ACOT Project can be found at: http://www.apple.com/education/k12/leadership/acot/