Malicious Compliance: When Professors Ban Laptops in Class

In a recent viral video titled "No laptops," a classroom scenario unfolds where a professor forbids the use of laptops. This decision has sparked a flurry of reactions, both supportive and critical, highlighting the complexities of modern education.

One viewer succinctly captured the sentiment with the phrase "malicious compliance," indicating that students found creative ways to comply with the rule while subtly rebelling against it. A comment noted the amusing aspect by saying, “Look! It prints in realtime!” showcasing the old-school methods students resorted to.

The debate on banning laptops is multifaceted. Some individuals, like one commenter, appreciate the accommodation tools laptops offer, stating, "Part of me gets banning laptop, but part of me really likes all the accommodation tools they have." Another user shared a personal anecdote about saving up to buy a laptop in 2000, only to feel immense frustration when classmates misused their devices, leading to a blanket ban by the teacher.

Discussions about inclusivity also emerged. One comment pointed out that a flat ban on laptops could be seen as disability discrimination, especially for students with motor-function or linguistic disorders. This was backed by another user who shared their experience of using a palmtop word-processor to excel in studies despite perceptions of playing games during lectures.

The overarching sentiment among many is that students should have the autonomy to choose their note-taking methods. One individual expressed their defiance, stating, "I have paid to be there to learn the subject you are teaching. I do not care what your feelings are on technology in the classroom. I will use what I please to best retain that knowledge."

Furthermore, another comment highlighted the significant improvement in their grades after switching to laptop note-taking, emphasizing the practical benefits of modern technology in education.

However, not all reactions were against the ban. A nostalgic comment reminisced about the days of using paper and pen, albeit humorously noting the physical discomfort it caused. Another user shared a unique story about a physics professor at Temple University who brings his cat to class, adding a touch of charm to the academic environment.

The video "No laptops" has ignited a robust discussion on the role of technology in classrooms. While some argue for the benefits of digital tools, others appreciate the discipline and focus that traditional methods can bring. The conversation continues as educators and students navigate the evolving landscape of learning in the digital age.