Critical Listening Evaluation Essay

Listening Evaluation

I spend most of my time on critical listening. In most occasions when I listen to a speaker, I not only listen to the information but also try to analyze, evaluate, and judge the rationality of the information and the credibility of the speaker. For example, when discussing with other group members, I carefully listen to their proposals and opinions. From their words, I evaluate the feasibility and logicality of their ideas. If I do not agree with them, I argue with them and defend my own opinions. When I need to elect a leader, I often use critical listening to evaluate the candidates’ credibility from their speeches. As an argumentative person, I tend to evaluate and judge the speaker’s information when I need to make

When I do not need to make a decision and the purpose of listening is to get new information and fact, I use informational listening and do not criticize or analyze the information. For example, when I listen to the news, participate in a lecture, or take classes, I listen to the speakers and take notes occasionally. When I am concerned with the relationship with a speaker, I usually listen self-reflectively. When talking with friends, I do not only catch the verbal information but also pay attention to nonverbal language and try to understand their emotions and situations. After that, I will think how the message applies to my life and respond to the speaker with sensitivity and understanding. For example, when a friend pours forth her pain or sorrow to me, I will not evaluate or judge her words. I put myself in her shoes and attempt to understand her point of view and emotions. I also show my empathy and encourage her to express herself. Self-reflective listening is effective in dealing with emotions and helps me better understand the speaker and maintain the relationship. Automatic hearing also occurs when I am not interested in what the speaker says. For example, if I feel that a lecture is boring, my mind will wander. Although I can hear the sound, I cannot catch the meaning of the