How to minimize digital classroom distractions

Here are some proven techniques for keeping students from using digital devices inappropriately in your classroom

Classroom technologies such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and wireless internet access offer exciting opportunities to enhance and deepen the learning process. However, using technology in the classroom can also bring multiple distractions to students. Without your proactive supervision, students might access games, web pages, and social networking sites as you deliver instruction.

As an educator, how can you confront this dilemma? Read on to learn the various ways on how you can minimize the digital distraction in your classroom.

Digital tech rules and regulations

On the very first day of school, hand students a copy of classroom policies containing the allowed screen time and the instances where they can use their smartphones, laptops, and computers. These might include rules such as…

• No smartphones are allowed when the teacher is conducting a lecture.
• Devices should be put on silent/airplane mode before the start of the class.
• Tablets should only be used during group exercises and note-taking sessions.

(Next page: Ethically removing distractions from digital devices)