This document begins by considering some of the ways in which ICT can be used to facilitate home–school links, and some of the technologies which might be employed. It continues with an outline of the benefits of using ICT in this way, presenting the key research findings in an accessible form. The factors necessary for the effective use of technology are also given in bullet-points.

The research findings are then analysed in more depth, concentrating on home use of ICT and the issue of the ‘digital divide’. Sidebars look at the provenance and focus of current research literature, and suggest key areas for further research. As usual in the ‘What the research says’ series from Becta, the document ends with a bibliography and list of further reading.

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