Cell phones in my class can be used to look up information on different topics, but are sit out in front of the student and off during test
J.,
and this can be good prep for the work place as well as many employers don't allow them to be using their phone while working.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I do not allow cellphones to be used during my lecture classes. Students have texts and supporting written material to use, hands-on models at times, plus power point presentations and a whiteboard where I draw relevant pictures or write info. When we take a short break they can use their phones. A few students struggle to go two hours "offline", but if I'm teaching, I expect them to be listening.
Ruth,
I like your flexibility; you have a clear policy, but allow for exceptions. On a somewhat related note, I just read an interesting article the other day in which a higher ed instructor describes why he does not allow laptops in the classroom. Very interesting.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Ronald,
This is the reason I do not allow cell phones in the classroom. I put a statement in my syllabus concerning cell phone use in the classroom. It is simply not allowed. However, being a technology teacher, there are teachable moments when I have allowed students to take out their cell phones and share information about interesting apps that may be useful to others.
As digital natives, Gen Y students view technology as a natural way of life. Without technology, many of them would be lost. often ask my students to imagine living in a country that did not have Internet access. They simply cannot relate to the idea. So technology for them is a need not a want.
Gen Y students are used to having information at their fingertips throgh the use of technology; smartphones, tablets, etc. and finding ways to incorporate these types of technology into the classroom can increase engagement.
It is critical that first we understand the effective use of these tools and that we reinforce professionalism in the classroom as well, so that they do not become more of a distraction than a support for learning.
As an extension of themselves. It is part of the fabric of their daily existence and they can not imagine a different way to live or exist.
Brant,
yes, if we can help them develop good skills in analyzing the information that is available to them so quickly they will be better off.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
They seem be overly dependent upon technology creating an environment of memorization as opposed to developing a process of critical thinking.
I caught student doing the same, now i dont allow cel phone in the class room.
Ray,
and this is a good reason for us to really focus on different forms of assessment (where we can) to help prevent the cheating.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
My biggest concern is keeping them from playing video games, messaging, and making phone calls while trying to keep them focused on the subject matter at hand.
I agree there is a big temptation for a student to cheat especially if their GPA matters (ie student loans, scholarships) fourtunately most of my assesments are a hands on basis
I feel they are too dependent on tech. It decreases their communication skills and writing skills . Ever ask one at the store to give you a quarter pound of hamburger? What's that!
I find that they don’t feel the need to learn something they can look up. What I tell my students is, looking up info is a great way to stay on top of latest technology but, if you don’t know how it works you can’t apply what you just looked up.
Andre,
glad to know that you are willing to try & while we should see about incorporating technology, never be pressured into believing that you absolutely must use technology. The students can learn without it & sometimes there's benefit in going tech free.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Gen-Y students view technology as a "must-have", that there is "no other way". Instructing to such a crowd requires incorporating modern technological methods (although I feel I'm a "digital holdout" and many of my friends, relatives, and even peers have labeled me as "Technologically Amish"...I try to adapt, often with the help of collegues that are better versed in "techno").
They view it in my opinion as an everyday tool that they can't surrender/
They view technology as an extension of themselves. They feel that it is the norm. They can't function without it.
