Throughout the entire CPD II module, I gained much valuable insights of the inner makings of interpersonal communication. At the beginning, interpersonal communication seemed like an easy concept to me, until the end of the lessons, where I truly grasped the deeper concepts regarding communication.
I learnt about how interpersonal communication does not only refer to speaking but also active listening. There are specific steps to be an effective listener which can impact the quality of relationships with others. Additionally, this also leads to the importance and effect of non-verbal communication through body language. Body language such as the posture, facial expressions and gestures play a part in communicating well too.
I learnt about how interpersonal communication does not only refer to speaking but also active listening. There are specific steps to be an effective listener which can impact the quality of relationships with others. Additionally, this also leads to the importance and effect of non-verbal communication through body language. Body language such as the posture, facial expressions and gestures play a part in communicating well too.
There were also in-class activities which aid in our learning. Verbal communications skills were applied throughout the classes by writing the blog posts in both professional and non-professional settings, such as the formal email introduction and interpersonal communication problem at workplace context. Feedback were then exchanged between peers for further improvements to be made. Additionally, there were impromptu presentations, where students were required to apply theoretical knowledge of verbal and non-verbal communication skills into.
As conflict is inevitable in both workplace and interpersonal relationships conflicts, it was another topic which I gained a lot of insights in class. I understood the nature of conflict and learnt how can we solve it through different approaches in the Thomas Kilmann conflict mode instrument test. I found the five conflict-handling modes very useful and applicable as it explains a person’s behavior in two basic dimensions: assertive and cooperativeness. In various circumstances, one can use different techniques to better avert or resolve a conflict.
On the whole, this learning journey has been very fulfilling as I begin to understand myself better, and it made me a better communicator in terms of effective writing and listening skills.
Thank you, Chantel, for this well written reflection on the CPDII module. I’m glad you found so much of it to be useful and that overall the tasks and activities proved to be a good learning experience for you. It warms my heart, in particular, that areas such as active listening, blogging (feedback) and the unit on conflict management were all helpful for you.
ReplyDeleteI do hope you can transfer some of the skills and know-how learned or polished in CPDII to your future study and work.
I have appreciated your many contributions during the term, Chantel. All the best as you continue your learning journey!
Brad