Forms of expression and representation other than writing have unquestionably been revolutionised by developments in new technology and computer software. Digital photography has made it possible to alter and enhance the original image in an almost infinite number of ways. Music software programmes like Cubase and Sibelius make it possible to compose and record music directly onto the computer or to automatically notate music, as well to digitally fix mistakes. Perhaps it is only to be expected that a similarly seismic change will occur in the processes of writing and literacy. The effects of text-messaging upon spelling are well-documented and everywhere evident. Technology and, in particular, computer technology have, without question, brought huge benefits, to learners as to everyone else. But the occasions in teaching when they don't work or are not available make one realise the degree to which people have become dependent. "Old fashioned" methods of teaching may then be seen to be actually much more effective at promoting real interaction, movement, dialogue, recall and understanding than sitting at a computer could ever be (the whole experience of learning, furthermore, is shared rather than solitary, under the guidance of the skilled teacher, and is probably more fun for that reason, and certainly more social). In this article, the author contends that maybe it's time people went back to the basics.