Distraction influences students' ability to learn a second language in the following ways:
Distraction is caused by a lack of ability to focus attention and lack of interest in the topic. It stems from both external sources like noise from other classrooms, as well as internal sources like cell phone use. Distraction leads to inefficient learning as students do not pay attention and do not actively participate. For example, in one observed class, noise from other areas of the school distracted students and prevented their participation. Technology like cell phones is a major distraction as students will text and surf the internet instead of focusing in class, like one student who was on his phone during a pronunciation lesson and could not answer the teacher as a result.