Final answer:
An active listener maintains concentration, avoids distractions, and expertly collects information during lectures, characterized by being analytical and motivated, similar to active reading where the material is engaged with deeply. So, the correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
A active listener is a person who knows how to maintain attention, avoid distractions, and skillfully gather information from class lectures. The appropriate answer is a. Active. This type of listening is essential in educational environments, especially when the goal is to understand and remember the material presented, such as in applications of the central route to persuasion. In this route, it's imperative that the audience is analytical and motivated to process the information deeply and effectively.
Active reading is a similar concept, where engagement with the material is critical to comprehension and retention. Unlike passive reading, which might involve skimming or reading without reflection, active reading encourages questioning and interacting with the text. This approach translates well to listening in academic contexts, where an active listener would employ similar tactics to absorb lecture content.
To provide a visual representation, imagine a scenario where an audience is listening intently to a speaker, akin to the figure mentioned that highlights a quiet, still audience paying close attention to a lecture. Such attentiveness exemplifies active listening and contrasts vividly with a rock concert scenario where the crowd's focus is dispersed and engaged in various forms of entertainment.
So, the correct answer is option a.