The more we practice the ability to find common ground, the more we gain the cooperation of other.

My NYU students want to use their phones during class.  I want them to give me their undivided attention for almost 2 hours.  What to do?  Set the ground rules together so we both win.  Phones off in class.  Students may get up and go into the hall with the professor’s complete understanding if they need to check or send a text message.  The disruptions are minor.  The more we get closer together, the stronger we become.