University of Chicago bans devices for first-year law students

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The University of Chicago announced a policy that will bar first-year law students from using phones, tablets, and laptops in class starting this fall, aiming to ensure students learn to think critically and independently without relying on AI. The law school framed the change within a strategic vision that includes developing AI-resilient pedagogy and assessment, promoting essential human skills, and teaching responsible, ethical AI use. Professors will appoint classroom scribes and may allow devices for specific tech activities like polling; students must use AI as a tool for research and writing but not to draft assignments, with faculty review and new electives offered.

First-year law students will be barred from electronic devices in class.