Incorporating Technology into Out-of-School Time Programs: Benefits, Challenges, and Strategies. Research-to-Results Brief. Publication # 2010-06.

Abstract

BACKGROUND Children and youth are growing up in an increasingly technology-saturated world. Digital devices, the Internet, and interactive media have become ubiquitous. 1,2 As a result, young people are not only becoming expert users of technological devices, but technology and technologically-based learning environments are extending student learning beyond the conventional classroom. 3,4,5 This brief draws on results from non-experimental research and the insights of practitioners to outline the benefits, challenges, and strategies associated with incorporating technology into out-of-school time programs.