Re: That needs to be retested for distraction on/off
That would have been my thinking too - it's not the devices present/not present that would be the problem; but how those devices are used.
Also not tested for is the proficiency of those users with their devices. I've got a bluetooth thing that unfolds into a nearly-full-sized keyboard and can slap down truncated notes/reminders into a phone while carrying on a conversation. I couldn't do that if I had to rely on the on-screen keyboard. Even with the right kit, though, proficient typists and hunt-and-peck typists are going to be allotting more or less attention into the note-taking process depending upon how good they are. And the more attention you have to put into working your device; the less you have to spare for input from the teacher.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
