With mounting interest in what research has shown about learning through computer assisted instruction (CAI), several research analysts have recently reviewed the CAI research for the past 20 years. Each review comes up with a set of conclusions that are fairly consistent with other reviews, and the conclusions from six of these studies are summarized in this digest as a guide for educators who want the essence of the research rather than comprehensive reports. These conclusions indicate that there is sufficient evidence to suggest a strong motivational element in computer use by students; continued use of computers lessens the initial motivation and tends to reduce retention; and the heightened effectiveness of CAI with elementary and secondary students is substantially reduced at the higher education level. (RP)