Use of technology devices in college has increased over time, but most instructors still disapprove of students using cell phones in class because of inappropriate use.

Students have reported that specific De Anza instructors allow cellphones in their courses, but when contacted, they did not confirm or respond to requests for interviews.

“In my mythology and folklore class, my teacher allows us to use our phones to look up symbolism and additional information in class,” said Latasha Bradshaw, 28, English major.

It is still debated among educators whether technology is necessary for learning, but some students agree with the ban of cell phones in classrooms.

As an individual with a short attention span, Amanda Ly, 20, psychology and liberal arts major, said she believes cell phones should only be used for educational purposes, with instructor permission.

“It’s like assigning people with guns and trusting them not to use it unless it’s necessary, except not as deadly,” Ly said. “They can use it for personal, selfish reasons and jeopardize their academic future. It sounds pretty harsh, but the ‘no cell phone’ rule has helped me focus on my classes and placed me on the right path.”

Students and educators can debate on the importance of allowing and expanding more technology use in class, but according to a Pew Research Center study, as reported by USA Today, more schools and teachers are using cell phones as learning tools.

Bradshaw said it is unrealistic to ban use of technology when it is readily available to students.

“I hope to be an English professor one day and for educational purposes, would absolutely allow the current technology to be allowed in class,” Bradshaw said.