The impact of digital technologies on students’ learning

This working paper shares findings of a literature review examining the impact of a range of digital tools on student outcomes. Drawing on systematic reviews, meta-analyses and empirical studies, this working paper delivers a balanced assessment of major digital tools, highlighting both their benefits and the challenges they present. The evidence shows that access to technology alone does not guarantee educational gain. Rather, successful digitalisation also requires pedagogical, not solely technical, solutions. This working paper was prepared as part of the Resourcing school education: Policies for the digital transformation of education and future-readiness of teachers project, which is included in the 2025-26 Programme of Work of the OECD’s Education Policy Committee. It was commissioned by the Irish Department of Education to the OECD to investigate the impact of digital tools on education. This work was developed by the University of Stavanger under the guidance of the OECD Secretariat.