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 Concordia University researchers set out to answer a "big picture" question: Does computer technology have a positive overall effect on learning in the classroom? File photo.Photograph by: CHARLES PLATIAU , ReutersMONTREAL — Concordia University researchers set out to answer a "big picture" question: Does computer technology have a positive overall effect on learning in the classroom?"There have been lots of arguments, both pro and con, regarding this issue, (such as) is it worth the investment?" said professor Richard Schmid, chairman of the education department at the Montreal-based Concordia.Their literature review involved looking at thousands of studies and comparing achievement in classrooms that used computer technology with those that used little or none.The 40-year retrospective study, published in the Review of Educational Research journal, concluded that classrooms where computer technology was used to support teaching had a "small to moderate positive" effect on learning and attitude.If an administrator must make a decision "should we invest in this? The answer is yes," said Schmid, the study's co-author.The literature shows that more recent, sophisticated applications of the technology produce greater positive gains than older

f an administrator must make a decision "should we invest in this? The answer is yes," said Schmid, the study's co-author.The literature shows that more recent, sophisticated applications of the technology produce greater positive gains than older applications, he sai

under what circumstances positive effects are observed

He said playing the games allows students to dig down into the layers of information being put in front of them while playing, and in "real life," where students regularly partake in exercises like determining the reliability of scholarly journals and Web sites.