Mobile Phones

These are to stay SWITCHED OFF AND IN YOUR BAGS at all times – not even on the table in front of you.  

You have no idea how monumentally distracting and insulting it is teaching and watching people ping SMSs between other members of the class. I do not accept the use of mobile phones in my classes. Full stop.

There is no circumstance where use of mobiles is permitted in class: no, not even to read text messages – you are in class to learn from your teacher and your colleagues and your phone is nothing but a distraction.

Anyone using a telephone (yes even for reading or sending SMS) will be expelled from the class.  … And please don't try to insult my intelligence by sneakily reading messages with the phone on your lap / under your desk – believe me it is obvious…..

IF there is some emergency situation and you have to keep a phone on silent in case you receive that critical call to interview etc: ask your tutor first if you may keep your phone on silent, and if this is accepted, sit close to the classroom door and leave quietly when the call comes.  Take your call and come quietly back to class.  This is what is done in the professional world in which you will be seeking employment.  If ever I have to keep my phone on for emergency – I will pay you the compliment of telling you: respect and courtesy work in both directions!

Using a phone when someone is talking to you or you are supposed to be working is considered the absolute height of insult and will not be accepted on any count and you risk total exclusion from the classroom and unit failure.