Advantages

Provides opportunities for "active-learning" activities in the classroom. In an e-classroom, "passive-learning" approaches such as lecturing may still be a valid approach, but can frequently be best used to introduce basic concepts that are exercised with notebook-enhanced active-learning exercises. Active learning occurs when the student becomes more engaged with the course material. The one-on-one nature of computers and the highly interactive nature of modern software or Web sites enables a high level of engagement.

Faculty can concentrate on developing teaching methods that foster understanding of material (application, reflection, testing etc.) as opposed to using classroom time for simply transferring "knowledge" from the teachers notes to the students notes. This assumes that the class notes, or supplemental learning materials are readily available (e.g. on a Web site) prior to the class.

Students are able to develop communication skills within class. Although students have a habit of relying on a very informal writing style with Instant Messaging, the use of the notebook computer can be used to develop professional writing skills.

Team-based projects can be worked on within the classroom, with increased supervision from the teacher. Instead of simply disseminating knowledge, faculty can become supervisors as they watch and learn from their own students. Teams frequently work best when their initial composition is arranged by the teacher and not self-selected by the students. Many excellent books on this subject can be found in the library and the LTC.

Students form personal hands-on experiences of concepts that are difficult or impossible to mimic in a traditional classroom. In many disciplines data analysis and interpretation is an essential but difficult concept to exercise by any means other than by computer. Many new fields are possible only through the use of such technology.

Technology-usage skills are developed in the students within a more professional environment offered by the classroom, that is not possible in typical student accommodations. Students currently have few opportunities to exercise their computer skills in any environment other than those frequented or populated by other students.

Students become familiar with knowledge-management skills, necessary to survive in an increasingly knowledge-centered workplace. The presence of technology in the classroom reflects the dramatic rise in the availability of readily-accessible knowledge and communication tools online in the workplace. Faculty can share their discipline-specific uses of technology such as the use of online databases.