Back-Channeling
Back-channeling ("the process of carrying on secondary 'side-bar' conversations via IM, e-mail and other written media while someone holds forth at the front of the room") is new to me in name...but not in concept. Teaching methodologies change when computers are injected into a classroom environment. Our department at RRC went laptop about 5 years ago. Initially, new students are fascinated with their laptop...but after a few weeks, the fascination changes as they build their instant messaging network and find other uses (censored due to RIAA...:)). When I'm in a classroom lecturing, I have to compete with a learner's ability to visit any site in, or engage in conversation with friends from round, the world. It's a bit unnerving. It's very different teaching a group of multi-taskers with laptops than teaching traditional students (even though they may be as actively engaged in multi-tasking - doodling, day dreaming, etc.).
This article presents a similar dilemma in meetings. Is back-channeling or multi-tasking rude? Allowable? I've taken the approach in a classroom that students have a right to make their own choices (and suffer their own consequences)...so if they want to surf/explore/chat - fine...as long as it doesn't disrupt others.