I am a student taking a survey for school
I agree with everyone who said if used for the designated purpose of learning, the aforementioned tools generally assist learning more than they hinder it. \n\nJust more on the iPods: scientists reckon that listening to music whilst studying helps you associate ideas (such as academic ones) with songs you like and choose to listen to, thus aiding your ability to retain information.
Why not then, just go ahead. As long as you are not doing illegal activities I think that is just fine.