Aimee

Why I Ban Laptops in My Classroom-David Cole
David Cole is a law professor at Georgetown University.

Couple of years ago all university classrooms where wired for internet and now the entire campus is wireless and every student is required to have a laptop.

But he has banned use of them in his classroom

Could you repeat the question?-The Question he grew tired of hearing as students looked up from the computer screens.

Two reasons for the ban: Students take verbatim transcription, no longer processing and prioritizing information. The purpose of his classroom is interaction not transfer of notes.

Create a temptation to do endless other activities. Which not only distracts one students but all who are in the class, also limiting the quality interaction and collective learning that should be occurring in the classroom

Is accused of being paternalistic and authoritarian...students use to do crossword puzzles, and students are not children but adults. Not the same, multitude of distractions-instant conversations, articles, games etc. momentary mind wondering removes the students completely.

Has the ban worked?

Yes-Cole's own survey showed 80% more engaged in class discussion. 70% liked the ban. 95% admitted to doing other things on laptops other that note taking.

2006 Study by Carrie Fried. On average students used laptop for other purposes in class 17 out of 75 minutes. The more a students uses laptop in classroom the lower their grades.

Believes there is a time and place for laptops, but sometimes the best choice is to unplug.

Arguments against his position- included mostly a need to change pedagogy and style. This is going to be the other sides greatest response.