Please leave all distracting electronic devices — cell phones, iPods, etc. — in your car, or silence them during class. I understand our contemporary need to be in contact with everyone all the time, but do not let this personal need distract the rest of the class. Please remove all devices from your head while in class.
If a device goes off noticeably in class, each member of the class’ final grade will be dropped by one letter point.
In addition, I do not allow class discussions to be taped, so do not bring any voice recording devices to class, though I do encourage your bringing an ink interface and dead trees on which to take notes.
You may use a laptop in class at my discretion. If I feel that you are using your computer for inappropriate activities during class, I will ask that you not bring your computer to class again. If you use a laptop in class, I also might ask you to assist in impromptu research during class discussions.
The bottom line: devices should not distract you in any way from your main goal of passing the course. If I feel this is the case, I will take any means necessary to remove the distraction, including disciplinary action.
