While technology presents great pedagogical possibilities, it can also serve as a distraction if students with laptops or other digital devices surf, check email, e-chat, or text in class. At your first class and in your course materials, clearly state your expectations around use of technology in the classroom, and reinforce those expectations during the course. Some of the expectations you state might include the following:
- Cell phones must be off or on vibrate. If they are needed for an emergency situation, contact the instructor.
- Refrain from using laptops except for note taking or other purposes related to class.
- You may request that laptops be closed for tests or during certain class activities or discussions.
See the CTE’s Managing Students’ Use of Technology in the Classroom for more about policies around laptop use and ideas for how to minimize disruption.