Models of Educational Computing @ Home: New Frontiers for Research on Technology in Learning

To date, the major emphasis of educational technology researchers has been the development and use of educational technologies within school settings. Noticeably absent has been research and considerations that focus on the home as a computer-based learning environment and potential connections between school and home learning. Given the increasing prevalence of computers in homes, the authors argue for an explicit research focus on the various ways that computers in homes can be used to create rich learning environments or extend school-based learning environments. To that end, this article discusses various models of educational computing in the home that are linked to learning in school, along with critical issues for consideration by researchers who choose to venture into this emerging area.