How the mere presence of a mobile phone harms face-to-face conversations

"You sit down for a chat with a new acquaintance but before you're even started they've placed their phone carefully on the table in front of them. Why? Are they waiting for a call? Do they just enjoy marvelling at its chic plastic beauty? Either way, a new study suggests this familiar habit could be interfering with our attempts to socialise." (Research Digest 9/24/12)

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How a “tech break” can help students refocus

I saw Dr. Rosen speak at the Brain & Learning Conference in Washington D.C last month. Impressed by several of his suggestions, I have decided to implement “tech breaks” in my classes, with great results. I noticed more focus and student engagement. They knew that they will get a chance to "check in" and look at their phone to reply to a new text. They just have to wait 15 minutes.

How a “tech break” can help students refocus