Abstract: This paper sketches some early initiatives in the field of computer mediated communication and computer supported collaborative learning. It is argued using examples that most competencies nowadays deemed necessary for participating in the still rapidly changing society under the influence technological developments, for example the so-called 21st century skills, were already included in educational ICT-enhanced practices from 30 years ago. Based on two recent studies in the Netherlands, it is concluded that the current realities of educational use of ICT in secondary schools hardly include communication or collaboration skills. It is hypothesized that these types of complex multidisciplinary projects may not be compatible with the structure and organization of contemporary schools, in which most ICT-usage and education itself is teacher-centered.