Almost everyone recognizes the need to balance online and offline life and use technology with a measure of discretion. But implementing this pragmatic goal is easier said than done. As we discussed in my last post , new iPhones, iPads, and other cool technology are so easy to use and helpful in daily life that more and more people never seem to disconnect. So when is using your iPad or other technology not a good idea? We’ve all seen the scary headlines. Stories like “ Woman killed in text messaging accident ” grab our attention. In the cyber security business, we call these shocking news stories “FUD”—they affect people by spreading “Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt.” Texting and driving is now illegal in 35 states and the District of Columbia. It’s probably just a matter of time until all states pass laws on the use of technology while driving. But despite the risks, many still can’t overcome the temptation to surf the Internet or text while behind the wheel. Americans love to multitask with technology, and scary stories only work on our consciences for so long before we are drawn to other online attractions. Smartphones in Class – Or Not? Meanwhile, many schools ban smartphones for fear of students cheating on tests. Administrators claim that leaving technology off is best to remove student temptations (and/or teacher distractions). The “Education Doctor Blog,” from Dr. Meryl Ain, wrote this: Newsday reports that an Amityville social studies teacher recently asked his 11 th  graders to use their personal cell phones to text a response to a poll about a presidential speech they had just watched in the classroom. According to the article, this is part of a growing local and national trend. Many other school districts, however, still bar students from bringing their cell phones and smart phones to school—and for good reason. They have been viewed as a distraction, even a dangerous one

Original Source of Turning Off Technology: When Is Using Your iPad or Smartphone Unwise?