By now, you have probably heard about the controversial New Yorker article about a computer science department email at Dartmouth, proposing that they ban computers in the classroom. 

Studies have been conducted (as quoted in the article) that show a lower retention rate for those using computers during lecture vs those that do not. The main reason for this is likely the amount of “other” activities users do with computers, though the studies also show retention differences for handwritten written notes vs. typewritten notes.   

Should purposed devices replace BYOD?

What does this have to do with kiosks and self-service? Purposed devices, those locked down and restricted to performing particular functions and activities, are devices that enable users, in this case students, to utilize their computer only for the intended usage. Colleges could provide classroom laptops that allow students to take notes, perhaps to access particular websites (as approved by the instructor for the purpose of the lesson), or review the syllabus/blackboard online during class. Distracting emails, Facebook, and You Tube (to name just a few) would be restricted. Notes could be saved, and sent to Blackboard and other web-based programs. Student privacy would be protected and they would be able to focus their attention on the lecture, rather than the many distractions that computers provide. 

College-provided devices in every classroom may not be a feasible solution to this particular problem, but the use of devices locked down and “purposed” for a particular task should be considered a potential solution for technology-created conundrums such as this.

What other technology problems can be solved by turning away from “bring your own device” and toward purposed device deployment?

(Photo by velkr0.)