Home Computers Don't Affect Academic Achievement

Computers are an important part of modern education, yet many
schoolchildren lack access to a computer at home. This study, Experimental
Evidence on the Effects of Home Computers on
Academic Achievement among Schoolchildren tested
whether this lack of access impedes educational achievement.

The approach used was to provides free home computers to randomly
chosen students.

Although computer ownership and use increased
substantially, the authors found no effects on any educational outcomes,
including grades, test scores, credits earned, attendance and
disciplinary actions.

The estimated null effect is consistent with survey evidence showing
no change in homework time or other "intermediate" inputs in education.