Conclusion
Conclusion
In this module we have considered: 1) how people actually listen, with all their faults, shortcomings, misperceptions and barriers, 2) how they should listen, and 3) how to listen with critical awareness in both interpersonal and public speaking situations. However, just learning the concepts of listening is not enough; it is equally important to practice these skills. And remember that practice is not a rote process but must be adapted and used with sensitivity to the unique context of listening. In this spirit public listening in this module is broken down into listening in the classroom as well as the public spaces of society. Listening in the classroom imposes a unique format for practicing listening to speakers in a supportive environment. The classroom can also prepare us to listen critically in the public sphere of a democratic society. Finally, this module takes account of listening in mediated situations in contemporary society. Mediated situations are more important with the plethora of new media, but there is no substitute for face–to–face engagement where the listener can utilize all of his/her senses to follow and evaluate the communication.
