In recent years technology has played an increasing role in SRJC's classes. Much of it has been helpful. For example, technology provides students easy access to our course syllabus, schedule, and gradebook. Technology allows students to communicate easily with instructors, allows instructors to distribute recommended resources easily, and creates increased opportunities to study and practice.

At the same time technologies can hinder each students' learning experiences. In short, too often technologies distract us from learning. It's an example of a larger problem you may have witnessed, the potential for technology to distract from any experience. It's a problem that the following video attempts to depict:

I have attempted multiple solutions to this capacity to distract within the classroom. My most recent experiment was a contract for student wanting to use electronic devices. However, signing this contract was not enough; and I devoted too much time policing the use of electronic devices. Given that personal electronic devices have little value in our class and they are remarkably distracting, students no longer are allowed to use personal electronic devices during class. Please see our course syllabus for more details. Exceptions will be made for students with accommodating needs or other warranted and responsible requests. Just speak with me before or after class, or during an office hour. Students violating this class policy will be suspended from class.