How does an instructor deal with students that are motivated, yet their grade expectations is unrealistic, due to lack of studying?

Regardless of school policy,students continue to use cell phones in the classroom. They text during class-time. This is disruptive,disrespectful and annoying. Nothing seems to work, not even taking points off their final grade. They continue to defy the policy. Help!

My students rarely take notes. I provide a study sheet before an exam? Should I stop doing this to encourage note taking?

Perception influences problem solving activities. Thus, when perceptions are distorted or ill-structured the process of problem solving can become ineffective. Can the assurance of an un-skewed outcome be determined through problem solving questions?

The relationship between attitudes and critical thinking is seldom discussed or included in textbooks. I believe a positive attitude should be included as a notable trait of a critical thinker. Should attitude be included as a critical thinker’s trait? Why?

Critical thinking skills are often confused with creative thinking. 1.What are some good hands-on lessons and activities that would clearly distinguish critical thinking skills from creative thinking?