In a recent article for the New York Times, Ezekiel J Emanuel (University of Pennsylvania) discusses how banning cell phones and computer-based notetaking in class has benefitted his students. Emanuel introduced this policy by showing students a study on how notetaking methods affect information retention. While some students were initially skeptical, they later recognized the learning benefits and reflected their appreciation in course reviews. Emanuel goes on to discuss the impacts phones have on concentration abilities and in-person social interactions. “If bans on phones and computers in classes were widely instituted, students might learn more from their classes, be more willing to speak their minds in class, be more at ease in their social interactions and feel more fulfilled,” writes Emanuel.
