Is there a place for computers in the classroom?

I have always been a fast typer, and I enjoy the opportunity to take notes on my computer during class. However, some of my fellow students have ruined this opportunity for me over the years with their lack of responsibility. Many students bring their laptops to class and surf the web, play Solitare, or participate in other non-school related activities.

How should teachers deal with this issue? On the one hand, you have students whose learning is being helped by the aid of Microsoft Word, but on the other hand, you have kids playing computer games during class, distracting other students. I really don't know what the answer is. I love the idea of using technology in the classroom, but not at the expense of student learning. What is the right answer?

The link below discusses the pros and cons of using laptops in the classroom.
http://www.uchastings.edu/infotech/teach-tech/laptops.html