The question is how — not whether — students use electronic devices in the classroom

The Chronicle of Higher Education “No, Banning Laptops Is Not the Answer (And it’s just as pointless to condemn any ban on electronic devices in the classroom)”

I appreciate this nuanced approach to technology use in the classroom, but I tend to lean towards the “any ban is counter-productive” perspective. I like the idea of being transparent about the purpose of different classroom activities, because within this statement of purpose are implied rules about when it is appropriate to use one’s device. And that’s what we want to teach our students: when it is a good time to use the device, and when it is a good time to put it away. Personally, I find myself encouraging my students to pull out their devices more often than discouraging their use. A common refrain in response to a group of students stalled on one of the challenges that I present in the classroom? Why don’t you get more information using your phone/laptop/tablet?