Dr. Robin Bisha, a visiting instructor of English at N.C. Central University, walks back and forth in front of her public relations class giving the day’s lecture.

As Bisha explains the rules and regulations of public relations practitioners she is interrupted. Not by a student entering the class late, or a student asking a question, but by the sound of a cell phone ringing.

Students scramble to look in their belongings to make sure they are not causing the interruption. As Bisha tries to regain her thoughts, it is clear the interruption was not welcome.

Cell phones have become an essential part of student’s attire, almost as common as the shoes on their feet, but many professors and students say it is inconsiderate and offensive to operate cell phones in common areas like classrooms and the library.

“Cell phones ringing are very distracting,” said Mary Hawkins, assistant professor of health education. “I get very angry and I do not allow them to leave the class to take phone calls. Students are asked to stay the entire hour for class.”

“I usually stop and look around to see where the sound is coming from,” she said. “Although the students apologize when it happens, it interferes with the teaching.”

Students say cell phones ringing are a violation of their education.

“Cell phones are disruptive to the learning experience. Professors usually have to wait until the phone stops ringing before they can continue,” said Kristin Armstrong.

And Trameka Terry agreed.

“They are disrespectful,” she said. “You come to class to learn.”

Although the university does not have a specific policy against cell phones ringing in the classroom, many professors penalize students for any type of behavior that might hinder other students’ learning — and this includes the disruption caused by ringing cell phones.

“Some professors make us leave the classroom when the phone rings,” said Theecla Bridges. “We were told the first day of class about cell phones ringing during the class period.”

Signs posted in the James E. Shepard library state that “all cell phones must be on mute and answered in the staircase.”

“This is a place of higher learning. Students need to take that step from high school to college and be kind and courteous to others trying to study,” said librarian Hazel Shepard.

“Everyone knows the library is a noise-free zone. This includes loud talking and annoying phone calls. I don’t mind an occasional ring from a cell phone, as long as the student is considerate of those around them,” said Shepard.

Despite the interruption in places like the library and classrooms, students say cell phones are a necessity.

“I usually keep the sound of my phone turned off,” said Tenesha Weaks. “But if I am expecting an emergency phone call, or if someone needs to contact me immediately, then I keep the sound on so I can be reached.”

But Tawianna Philips says students are not keeping their phones on for emergencies, but for social acceptance.

“Most of the student population on campus has a cell phone,” she said. “Not only do students not want to be left behind with the latest styles, but they also want to keep up with new modes of technology.”

Some students say having their cell phone is as important as having their materials for class.

“If it rings, I am going to answer it,” said Carlos Lawrence.

Bisha said emergencies are expected, but cell phones in the classroom can be handled in a proper manner.