In a world where students carry supercomputers in their pockets, it may seem strange that some professors continue to restrict laptop use in classrooms. However, many instructors argue that limiting devices helps reduce distractions and encourages deeper learning. 

As a biology undergrad, many of my classes involve learning via diagrams, sketches and annotations — tasks that are much more effective with pen and paper. Drawing structures and mapping processes forces students to slow down and process the information in a way typing does not.  

That said, students in majors such as English, computer science or business, which heavily rely on devices for note-taking and other classwork, may feel at a disadvantage when professors restrict technology. Instructors, however, argue that it is not the devices themselves but the interruptions they can cause. According to the Biology Department’s Professor Joydeep Bhattacharjee, laptops and iPads are not the problem — distractions are.  

“I initially allowed students to use their laptops for notetaking, but I learnt that several students were browsing on unrelated sites,” said Bhattacharjee. “On multiple occasions, students approached me after class to tell me that they were being distracted by the students in front of them using their laptops for non-educational purposes.”  

Freshman Radiologic Technology student Raylan Dauzat said she has observed this behavior in her own classes. 

“There are at least two people in class using their devices for unrelated tasks. It’s clear they’re distracting themselves and not getting the best out of the lecture,” said Dauzat. 

Beyond classroom observations, research supports the benefits of writing by hand. A study published in ScienceDaily by the University of Tokyo found that writing on physical paper leads to more brain activity linked to memory retention. I noticed the same thing in my classes: when I sketch or annotate by hand, I remember it better than when I type it.  

Modern tablets and iPads can replicate the experience of writing on paper with a pencil, which is why their use is sometimes permitted in class. 

“I allow the use of iPads in the classroom if I can see students writing on them. I have found that when students write, they are more engaged in learning,” said Bhattacharjee.  

In the classroom, devices should not be tools for scrolling through Instagram, texting or playing games. Putting a laptop away should not feel like a restriction, but rather a way to minimize diversions and focus on the lecture, helping students engage more deeply with the material.