As an educator you have likely had to weigh in on the topic of whether to allow students use certain electronic devices in the classroom and likely had to enforce guidelines regarding their usage. The traveling classroom will present many of the same challenges but may involve some different considerations. In our experience we have seen many effective tour leaders take different approaches on the topic. You must balance the competing interests and develop guidelines to achieve your tour goals.

 The pros of phones and electronics on tour:

• Safety on Tour- Cell phones permit students to remain connected to their chaperones as well as their parents.
• Cell phones are the primary cameras for most students today.
• Smartphones give the students access to the tour portal and other educational materials that can bolster their tour experience.
• Many tour apps can aid your tour experience.

 The cons of misuse of electronics on tour:

• Can cause a distraction to the tour as students tend to constantly be engaging in texting and other activities rather than paying attention to the tour guides and chaperones.
• They may also raise privacy and safety concerns if students are constantly making public posts about sensitive data.
• At the hotel, students can freely communicate between rooms and plot to break curfew rules rather than get necessary sleep.

 Consider some of these effective strategies:

• Make an Agreement: Enter into a written ‘Cell Phone Contract’ with the students and parents, setting forth the rules concerning cell phones.
• Explain the Benefits: Discuss the advantages of being present and engaged during the trip, highlighting the value of experiences over digital distractions.
• Designate Phone-Free Zones: Establish specific areas (like museums, classrooms, or dining areas) where phones must be put away to encourage focus and engagement.
• Phone Basket: At the start of activities or meals, have students place their phones in a designated basket or bag to keep them out of reach. Consider keeping them in the chaperone's room at night.
• Scheduled Check-In Times: Allow students to check their phones at designated times (e.g., morning, evening) for messages and updates rather than throughout the day.
• Be Consistent: Maintain the same rules you have at school to avoid ambiguity.
• Establish Clear Consequences: Outline what will happen if students don’t adhere to the phone rules, ensuring everyone understands the importance of compliance.
• Set a Good Example: Have chaperones model limited phone use to encourage students to do the same.