My gloves are off. I decided for the first time this semester to stop fighting the use of technology in my classes.
Actually, it sounds really silly even reading what I just typed. Why would a mass communications professor have a problem with students using technology in her classes?
I previously viewed students’ cell phones and laptops as my nemesis. They were just one more thing to distract students from whatever valuable information I was attempting to communicate with them. I had these statements in my syllabuses:
“You are not allowed to use a laptop or any other technology in class because it is not necessary to the course. Please do not get out your laptop during class. Cell phones also are not allowed to be on during class. Students found texting or using cell phones during class will be asked to discontinue this practice or leave.”
I still am firm on my “no ringing cell phones” policy in classes, but I re-evaluated my laptop and cell phone policies. They now read, for example:
“You are allowed to use a laptop or smart phone to document and/or live tweet class notes during the course session. If you choose to live tweet the course session, please use the #masc4213 hashtag. Also, you should review and adhere to the classroom Twitter policies, which are linked to the course site. Tips for getting the most out of live tweeting classes/events also may be found there.”
But still:
“You are not allowed to have your cell phone ringer or alert notification on during class. Students found texting or using cell phones or computers for anything other than note taking during class will be asked to discontinue this practice or leave. Repeated issues will result in lowering of your attendance/participation grade.”
I gave up the fight and embraced technology as a pedagogical tool, instead of a hindrance. Sure, I still want students to pay attention in my class, but I’m no longer convinced that they must power off to do so. Instead, I’m embracing social media as an interactive form of teaching and learning. I’m choosing to engage Millennial learners with the tools of their generation. We’ll see how it goes!
Let’s Talk Nerdy!
Should students be encouraged to use technology in class? Why or why not? What is your experiencing with this form of learning?
Real Nerds Read!
Check out my friend, Angela Maiers’s post on 26 Keys to Student Engagement. It’ll really get your creative juices flowing about alternatives for teaching and learning.
BruceSallan1 says
Seems like a reasonable adjust to today’s realities, Professor!
eEmmerich says
@9INCHmarketing @profkrg Flexibility. Now that’s smart!
profkrg says
@9INCHmarketing Thanks for your support, Stan!
Megan A says
I’ve tried it both ways, and I agree that the best practice is to embrace the technology & empower students to use it properly. I find that many of my students haven’t learned how to use technology for educational purposes. Hopefully, by embracing media in the classroom, I can help therm acquire those skills.
profkrg says
@Megan A Exactly! Thanks for reading and commenting, Megan!
OU_com says
@profkrg How important was it to have a strong policy in place for students?
profkrg says
@OU_com I actually just posted about the policies. Check it out here: http://t.co/uDIdH9EZ
profkrg says
@OU_com Thank you for your support. I’m interested in your feedback on the policies. #tech #highered #edtech
OU_com says
@profkrg We love that your policy stresses sharing in a respectful manner. Debate should be encouraged to add value, not disrespect others.
profkrg says
@OU_com my hope exactly. It’s good to share, but not at others’ expense.
OU_com says
@learningfy Thank you for the RT!