The role of educational technologies in improving educational practices and outcomes has been criticized as over-hyped and insignificant. With few exceptions, the state of education has changed less than expected as a result of tools such as computers and the Internet. To a considerable degree, this is due to the minor role educational technology research plays in transforming the use of technological tools in the classroom. This article presents an analysis of technology as a process and as a value-laden system, both of which have substantial consequences to our approach to research. It is argued in the article that design-based research can address some of the deficiencies of other research methods in investigating the role of tools and techniques in the classroom. Through more democratic research practices and recognizing technology as a system beyond its tools, researchers can increase their impact on educational practice. (Contains 1 figure.)