Why I Do NOT Let Students Use Technology in Class: Reason No. 2

Posted on July 30, 2018 by Dr Joseph Russo

In this series of the Top Ten reasons why I don’t let students use technology in my classrooms, I present …

Reason No. 2: Because they are distracting to me as the course instructor. 

I work hard preparing lectures and designing content to keep students engaged in what can be rather boring, pedantic “stuff.” Consequently, I want their complete attention, and cell phones and computers are just as distracting to me as they are for the students (even though they won’t admit it).

Occasionally, I will admit, I will ask students to use their devices as a part of a classroom exercise and for those few moments, the technology can come in handy. But … ONLY IF I ASK THEM TO DO IT.

We are gearing up for another semester here at RussoHouse in Laramie, Wyoming, and I am planning my three courses. I encourage students to read my blog and am hopeful that through this series of reasons why, the students will gain an appreciation for my rules.

About Dr Joseph Russo

Born and raised in Woodland Hills, California; now residing in Laramie, Wyoming (or "Laradise" as we call it, for good reason), with my wife Cindy, our little schnauzer, Macy Mae, and a cat named Markie. I hold a BBA from Cal State Northridge and an MBA from the University of Nevada at Reno. My first career was in business, for some 25+ years. In 2007, I shifted gears and entered the helping professions as a mental health counselor. I earned an MA in Educational Psychology and a Doctorate (PhD) in Counselor Education and Supervision. In my spare time I enjoy mentoring young and not-so-young business and non-profit executives as they go about growing their businesses and presence. I also teach part-time at the University of Wyoming, in both the Colleges of Education and Business.
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