Effective Communication 101
Takeaways:
Building positive authentic relationships is the foundation for effective communication exchanges! How this can be achieved:
Be empathetic & open
Be honest and forth-coming with information about the child's education, and to communicate such information with sensitivity and respect
*Be willing to disclose my thoughts/motivations/plans and vulnerabilities in encouraging engagement (though the degree of disclosure is ultimately based on my professional judgement of course)
Be proactive - frequent and ongoing communication is important in building trust and rapport ( ❌ wait for challenging situations to connect with families)
Be a good listener - communication is a two-way process! Securing information from families and understanding what they want requires paying attention to them and soliciting their views and input.
Problem Analysis and Solutioning Process Framework
1. Analysing the situation
Framing the issue at hand
Naming the problem, ascertaining its scope and examining its implication for student long-term outcomes
***Focus on issues, not personalities - avoid personalising the issue, and do not blame the student or family; mix positive with negative statements.
2. Selecting the Styles and Behaviours you intend to use
4a. Analysing the Other: Personality Types
4b. Selection of Styles and Behaviours Associated with the Other's Styles
Suitable opening lines for each of the styles - Convince, Assert, Engage, Attract
Overview of Influence Energy, Styles & Behaviours
Other Useful Tips/Strategies
(Credits: What Teachers Should Say and How They Should Say It by Greg Conderman, Sarah Johnston-Rodriguez, Paula Hartman, and Drew Kemp)
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