What tactic may a disruptive, nonparticipating student use to distract a class?

A disruptive, nonparticipating student can use being overly talkative as a tactic to distract a class because it diverts attention from the main subject being discussed. When a student engages in excessive talking—especially if it’s off-topic—it can create noise in the classroom environment, interrupt the flow of information, and shift focus away from the instructor and other students who are trying to engage with the material. This behavior can lead to confusion, disrupt the learning process, and hinder the effectiveness of the instructional session.

Being overly talkative is particularly effective as a distraction, as it not only draws attention to the student who is speaking but also can prompt others to engage, thus further fracturing the classroom focus. This tactic can inhibit the instructor's ability to manage the classroom effectively and maintain the intended educational atmosphere.