<p>Should we blame the OP’s parents for his deficiencies? Back in my day a classmate staved off boredom in medical school basic science lectures by doing cross stitching. GT coordinator in son’s school district told gifted kids it was fine to doodle. Some students need to stave off boredom- currently with electronics. Some are just goofing off, others already know the material presented. I must admit some of us Honors Chemistry majors hated a required chemistry class as juniors so much we goofed off. I used to take books to CME (continuing medical education) lectures to get through them- such a slow pace.</p>
<p>OP- mind your own business and ignore those who don’t think/act like you. I personally do not consider it disrespectful for students to not pay attention to any less than riveting lecture. You have to earn respect, not automatically get it because you give lectures.</p>
<p>There is plenty wrong, and right, with my son. He’s normal albeit gifted. Iowa State is a much better school than many other public U’s, btw. Howcum you are finally doing engineering? Why couldn’t you do it instead of business earlier? Howcum you aren’t a parent yet. Etc. Final thought- glass houses.</p>