Sometimes what’s happening around you might seem fine and tranquil and quiet, because you are used to these other people living and working in your shared space.

Yet even what seems to many faculty to be low-level, lower-impact everyday life could be frowned on by others as a distraction.

Sometimes, if there are too many people around and too much going on, that can create a distracting atmosphere. Its impact on engagement and transformative learning should be treated with due seriousness.

Consider investing in a nice soothing aquarium.