I think setting the tone for use of technology from the beginning is important. Instead of the technology device (like their smartphones) being a distraction, the instructor needs to know how to incorporate its functions into learnging activities in the classroom. Ultimately, as instructors, we need to know our audience - especially with adult learners. Why our the students their and what do they hope to gain from the learning experience? If learning objectives are clear and lesson plans are designed to actively engage students, learning will occur, even if technology fails, because the instructor can substitute similar but less technology-based activities into the day's instruction when needed.
