Loud noise, such as sounds we experience at sporting events and rock concerts or when working around heavy equipment, is only one environmental factor impairing our ability to listen (and sometimes hear) (Cohen, 2013). Large groups present another difficulty, as they involve more people competing for your attention. Distractions in your environment—
If you know that environmental factors will distract you from a listening situation ahead of time, you can take steps to eliminate distractions. For example, if there’s a classroom on your campus that’s always cold, even when it’s ninety degrees outside, bring a sweater or jacket to that class. Avoid busy public places when planning for an intimate conversation. And if you must attend a lecture with a lot of rowdy people, get to the meeting early and pick a seat closer to the speaker.