The use
of personal technology devices in the classroom is prevalent at colleges and
universities. Rather than embracing this trend, some faculty, departments and
even entire institutions have started putting limitations on students’ use of
personal technology in class.
Here
are five reasons why educational institutions should continue on that path
instead of stepping back.
1.
Students are technology natives. Using technology is
second nature to students. They have grown up with it and incorporate it into
almost every aspect of their lives. Notebooks, tablets and cellphones are all
technology that students are accustomed to and can use as ancillary learning aids.
They should not lose access to potential learning tools that have known
benefits in a classroom.
2.
Students use e-books. Many students are
purchasing digital editions of textbooks instead of traditional printed copies
for a variety of reasons, including cost efficiency, ease of accessibility, and
environmental friendliness. E-books are typically accessed through a student’s
personal device, such as a notebook, tablet or cellphone. Students should have
access to them to look up information during class.
3.
Students want streamlined
organization. Personal technology devices have a range of features that can
aid students with organization, such as note-taking applications, calendars and
virtual sticky notes. These help students stay more organized by keeping all of
their information centralized and connected between devices. Users can find
what works for them and tailor their devices to help them perform more
effectively.
4.
Students need access to
supplemental information. Mobile devices give students Internet access. Although it can be
used inappropriately by some (such as to check Facebook or Twitter), students
often use the Net to find more information about a topic being discussed in
class. Not only can students use their personal devices to find extra data on their
own, but professors can provide additional information that is easily
accessible to their students.
5.
Students can prepare for work in
the field. At the higher-education level, many students participate in
field work as part of their specific areas of study. Much of this work requires
the use of technology. For example, graphic design students may work on real
projects that require relevant applications that are accessed through their
personal devices. Learning how to use these apps in the classroom allows
students will prepare them for using them outside of it.
