I don’t think I’m actually a technophobe. Curmudgeonly, perhaps, and resist to trying new programs or reading new media outlets, but, as Sydney can tell you, I’m that way in all walks of life 🙂 But today the topic is headphones. I’m not against headphones, per se, but for crying out loud, couldn’t they make headphones that not only provide sound to the individual who desires it, but also prevent it from being transmitted to those who don’t?
I have written many a paper with a rotation of Bach’s cello suites coming through my headphones, helping me to focus down into the world of my laptop and the blank page; I know the need to create your own space through music. But many students are now wearing their headphones into quiet study spaces around campus, or as they settle into their chair before class, so that we’re all treated to their choice of music. I, who have pretty good hearing, particularly if it’s something I should ignore, suddenly get the sense that I’m shopping in a mall that pipes in music overhead, or perhaps a grocery store, or an elevator. It’s very disorienting.
Erin
Alan Schmierer
Chill, honey. I’ve learned at work to not take it personally when I speak to someone and there is no response, and so I look for the little earbuds.
Which is all fine and dandy, but so-called “quiet study” areas around campus are becoming filled with competing tinny sounds from various pairs of those earphones–so much for work!
Erin