It is somewhat distracting–but ultimately very useful– to have wireless internet access in all of my classes, where I am expected to use my laptop anyway. As I look around, people are doing various things: writing emails, taking notes, instant messaging, etc. I, for one, am writing in my livejournal, of course. People are still, of course, paying attention. I am keeping one eye on the computer and one on the professor, if that is possible.
It is HELPFUL because I can arrange to meet a friend after class via IM or email, discreetly be contacted by anyone (as opposed to using a cell phone), and find out background info on what a professor is asking.
It is DETRIMENTAL to the learning process, in my opinion, only in the same ways that any other distraction is. If a student wants to sit there doing something besides pay attention, the bottom line is that he or she will do it. Doodle, pass notes, doze off, etc.
So.
That’s that.
Our first football game is this weekend, against Clemson. Cool. Our first game is always at home. How is that? It’s only possible for half the teams out there!