PPT Slide
The 'Computers Helping Instruction and Learning Development' (CHILD) study was a five year investigation in nine Florida elementary schools, which began in 1987. Over 1400 students participated and their teachers received training which included not only the technological components of the program (3-6 computers were placed in each classroom) but also
emphasized establishing a team environment with other teachers in the project. Much of the students' daily routine involved self-paced interactions in a learning station environment. 'Student empowerment' was a key concept of the project.
Standardized test scores indicated a positive and statistically significant result across all grades, schools and subjects, with the largest effects appearing for students who had been in the program for more than one year. When surveyed, none of the nine schools expressed dissatisfaction with the project, five were planning to expand their level of participation and nine new schools were about to become involved.
"The goals of Project CHILD go beyond improving achievement as measured by standardized tests. The program stresses problem solving... and higher order thinking skills" (Kromhout and Butzin, 1993).