Distraction In Classroom

“Digital Distractions in the Classroom: Student Classroom Use of Digital Devices for Non-Class Related Purposes” is an article explaining the findings of Bernard McCoy; faculty member at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In his article, McCoy has pointed out many studies that showcase the rapid growth of technology use amongst young adults as well as the increase of use and availability of technology for students. The use of technology can be a great educational tool in the classroom but when used for non-educational purposes the technology is detrimental to student learning. This study looked to reinforce other studies that the use of digital devices such as, “smart phones, tablets, and laptop computers” (McCoy 1) for non-class purposes …show more content…
If educators are aware of the issues regarding digital distraction in the class and how it negatively impacts the way students learn they can enact policies and procedures to limit distractions. These limitations may have negative feedback in the beginning but students will learn to appreciate it as they will better understand and learn more from their courses and get a better bang for their buck. Professors can decide what ways and when it is appropriate to bring in digital technology while appreciating the “old-school” teaching methods and procedures such as taking notes with pen and paper or handing out physical assignment sheets instead of all aspects being on a digital …show more content…
Every class I am taking this semester has a policy against the use of phones, tablets, and computer during class time unless permitted by the teacher or if there is some need to use the device from an accessibility standpoint. At first these policies annoyed me as having the ability to use my laptop in class can be helpful when needing to send out a time-sensitive e-mail or want to look up information correlated to what is being taught in class. Although I can admit that in courses where technology is allowed it has caused a distraction from learning for me and I have missed out or done worse in a class because of it. This semester not being able to use technology has brought an increase in my attention and understanding of my classes and created a better learning experience for myself. Although I can still admit to attempting to fight boredom during a class as I will check my smartphone under a table to look at Facebook or send an e-mail. I think my generation is addicted to technology and staying connected because we are aware and know that using it so much isn’t helping our education but we continue to do it anyway whether that is due to habit or addiction. This article as well as all of the policies put in place this year have made me a better student and helped regain my focus and attention in and out of the