Texting in class in a problem in my class room.I find that if it is discussed on the first day of class, and is inforced each day of class,the students will help the instructor inforce the rules,if they see texting.
I also use silence in the classroom to negate inappropriate behaviors. I also utilize the board by addressing the issue "out loud" up front and in general. An example: maybe I see a student texting in class. I may write no texting please on the board and never have to point it out again. That usually does the trick.
In my current class I have an issue with a HUGE age difference youngest just turning 18 and the oldest is 30. Of course, the youngest is always not paying attention and then needs the most assistance because he cannot keep up. I constantly ask during my lecturing and demonstration is everyone following me. I make everyone clear that this is higher learner and we need to treat it as such. Any disruptions or negativity I pause at what I doing and give complete silence until I have everyone's full attention. This works out much better than "calling" them out.
