Should Laptops Follow Cell Phones Out of the Classroom? Finding the Right Balance

Summary for Educators

Based on Andrew Boryga

"Should Laptops Really Go the Way of Cell Phones?"

Edutopia | May 15, 2026

🔵 THE BIG IDEA (120–150 words)

After many schools successfully limited cell phone use, some commentators have suggested that laptops should be next. Andrew Boryga examines this growing debate and argues that laptops deserve different consideration because, unlike phones, they often serve as essential instructional tools. The issue is not whether laptops belong in classrooms, but whether educators are using them intentionally.

Research and classroom experience suggest that unrestricted technology can reduce attention and increase distraction. Yet thoughtfully integrated laptops also support writing, research, collaboration, creativity, accessibility, and personalized learning. Rather than replacing one blanket ban with another, schools should focus on when, why, and how technology is used. Effective instruction—not the device itself—determines whether laptops become powerful learning tools or costly distractions. The challenge for school leaders is developing clear expectations that maximize learning while minimizing unnecessary screen time.

🔵 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR EDUCATORS

• Use laptops only when they clearly enhance learning objectives.

• Build lessons that require active thinking rather than passive screen time.

• Establish clear "screens up, screens down" classroom routines.

• Balance digital learning with discussion, writing, reading, and hands-on activities.

• Teach digital self-regulation alongside academic content.

• Regularly evaluate whether technology is improving or replacing quality instruction.

◻️ WHY IT MATTERS (75–100 words)

Technology decisions should begin with instructional goals—not with the device itself. While excessive screen use raises legitimate concerns, eliminating laptops altogether may also remove valuable opportunities for collaboration, creativity, accessibility, and authentic problem solving. Today's challenge is helping students become thoughtful users of technology rather than dependent consumers of it. Schools that intentionally manage laptop use can improve engagement while preserving the many instructional benefits digital tools provide.

🟢 LEADERSHIP ACTION STEPS

✔ Review current laptop expectations with faculty.

✔ Differentiate between productive and unproductive technology use.

✔ Model instructional strategies that alternate between digital and non-digital learning.

✔ Observe classrooms for evidence of meaningful technology integration.

✔ Empower teachers to decide when technology genuinely adds value.

🟡 LEADER REFLECTION

If every laptop disappeared tomorrow, which parts of our instruction would improve—and which valuable learning opportunities would disappear with them?

Original Article

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Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2026). ChatGPT (5.2) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com