Taking Away Technology Tools as Punishment: Appropriate or Not?

I hear over and over again that the use of technology is a privilege. Colleagues that I respect and admire go back and forth about the appropriateness of taking technology away from students as a punishment for misbehavior.   I know that these words are spoken from a place of frustration.  It comes from, "I've tried everything else. I don't know what else to do."  It's an interesting concept to consider because I think we need to consider what we mean by privilege.

According to dictionary.com, the definition of privilege is a right or benefit enjoyed only by a person beyond the advantages of most.

Yes, we are very privileged in our district that we have the technology resources that we do.  We benefit immensely from having an administration  that recognizes that our world is changing and we need to keep up. They are committed to providing the resources that will help our students be successful citizens in the future.  Teachers are provided professional development to keep up with what is available.

Is technology something that should only be "enjoyed" by a few who are fortunate?  I think we would all agree that the answer to that is, "No."  If we want our students to be productive citizens in the future, we need to equip them with the necessary skills to navigate our information rich society.

Is the use of technology a right that shouldn't be taken away?  When I think about how we use technology in our classroom, I have to believe that it is.  The use of technology is an integral part of our learning.  Our students are learning important strategies that help them navigate digital texts.  They study digital compositions as mentors and learn to make purposeful decisions as digital writers themselves. They are connecting with a global audience and learning how to be responsible digital citizens.  They are collaborating, creating, responding, and connecting all with the help of technology.  I would argue that the integration of technology is one more tool that our students have at their disposal when they are making decisions as readers and writers.  I would never consider taking away pencils and books as a punishment, so why would I consider taking away iPads and online websites that benefit my students?

I am sure that some may disagree with me.  I'd love to continue the conversation.  What are your thoughts about the use of technology being a privilege?  Is it appropriate for teachers to take away technology as punishment?

Please join other educators as they discuss how they are using technology in their classrooms.  Visit Reflections on the Teche to see other links to DigiLit Sunday.