Curbing Digital Distractions in the Classroom

Abstract

Whether banking, communicating, watching television, or shopping, people can now do nearly anything on their personal digital devices. This digital access even extends to the college classroom where students use their personal devices for a multitude of non-class related purposes. Findings from a survey of 193 college undergraduates found that during class, students access particular types of platforms more frequently than others, providing insight into what they are doing when they are on their devices. Overall, students more often engage in accessing class information, utilizing online communication, using online photo sharing, and information seeking than other platforms. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations for educators are offered.