Competent Communication
Think of someone (family member, celebrity, or friend) who demonstrates competent communication within a particular context. What behaviors does this person exhibit that make him or her effective?
The one person I could think of who demonstrates competent communication within a particular context would be my 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Lewis. She was an excellent teacher and also a great role model for me. When I entered into junior high school, Mrs. Lewis made sure her class met their expectations. Mrs. Lewis was more like a second mother to me and showed that nurturing and kind relationship towards her students. She always carried the most beautiful smile and I was able to open up to her about many issues.
Over the years, as Mrs. Lewis and I became older, we also became closer. I would sometimes go by her classroom after school and listen to some of the daily stories about her little ones. She was the chief of her classroom and I admired her for that. I can truly say that she played a part of where I’m at today and also assisted me to become a successful leader in life. I am so thankful I was able to gain her trust; something I would pass on to my kids.
Would you want to model some of your own communication behaviors after this person? Why
I consider myself as an honest, amusing, and open; love to give advice, and a great listener. I love to sat back and listen to other people problems and give my true reply. I know you have to respect other individuals view points and sometimes we don’t be on the same page. Mrs. Lewis was a magnificent woman that had her own ideas about what she expected out of a child. That’s why it is so important to be a great listener and understand what a child is saying, once you grasp the situation, the individual will suddenly open up to you.
Great post Janet! It sounds like Mrs. Lewis was an awesome teacher and obviously an awesome communicator as well. Teachers, of course, have to be very effective communicators by the use of verbal and written communication skills. Their body language and the tone in their voice both play a huge role in the communication process between a teacher and his or her students. Teachers must be able to express themselves both verbally and in writing in order to report student progress to parents. They need to explain the strengths and weaknesses of their students so that parents will understand the message and be receptive rather than defensive. This is especially important when the teacher conveys a difficult message about the student's misbehavior or learning problems. The message must be delivered clearly and with tact. The principal at my school stresses the importance of us being comfortable communicating with parents regularly, with phone calls and informal notes in addition to formal report cards. So, when you state that Mrs. Lewis was a great listener, it seems to me that she knew how to give as well as receive effective communication from children as well as adults. And, that is probably why you felt so strongly about her, simply because she listened to you, she talked to you, and it was done effectively and appropriately. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI can so relate to your posting. My kindergarten teacher was the influential person that I fashion to be like as an educator. These educators have no idea the difference they played in teacher us or long to mimic their teaching styles and strategy.
ReplyDeleteJanet it was nice reading your post. It is good to know that you had such an influential person throughout your life.
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