Which term describes the listening style where the listener is focused on gaining information?

The term that describes the listening style where the listener is primarily focused on gaining information is informational listening. This type of listening is characterized by the listener's objective to understand and absorb the content being communicated, rather than forming an opinion about it or providing feedback. It often takes place in situations like lectures, meetings, or discussions where the goal is to collect data or learn new concepts.

Informational listening requires the listener to pay close attention, process the information, and retain it for future use. This type of listening is crucial in educational settings and professional environments, where understanding the message is essential for effective communication and decision-making.

In contrast, empathetic listening involves understanding and sharing the feelings of the speaker, while critical listening focuses on analyzing and evaluating the message, often with the intent of forming a judgment. Evaluative listening combines elements of both critical and empathetic listening but does not prioritize acquiring information as the primary goal.