University of Amsterdam bans electronic devices in lectures

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) has implemented a ban on laptops, phones, and tablets during lectures for its interdisciplinary social sciences program. The measure aims to improve student concentration and engagement.

Cyrilein Evertsen, a senior lecturer in the program, reported that between 60 and 80 percent of students were engaged in non-academic activities during lectures, such as online shopping or using social media, leading to a lack of mental presence. Program director Michaela Hordijk noted that while some studies suggest handwritten notes improve retention, other research offers conflicting views.

Student reactions are mixed. Some students report that the ban helps them focus, while others argue they should have the freedom to choose their own methods for exam preparation. Paul Kirschner, an emeritus professor of educational psychology, supports the move, stating that manual note-taking forces students to actively process information rather than passively recording content.