This post
represents a new chapter in my course of study at Walden University. This
semester we are studying Communication and Collaboration in the Early Childhood
Field. As I think about the many people I interact with on a regular basis, I
notice that some of them are better communicators than others. I, myself have
some challenges communicating my thoughts, ideas and feelings in a calm manner.
This has even carried over to my professional life and I have made great
strides in learning to express myself professionally, even when I am experiencing
strong emotions regarding a particular topic or incident. Despite this, I have
a long way to go.
I am
inspired to become a better communicator by many of the dedicated teachers I
have the pleasure of working with on a daily basis. I have two colleagues at my
current school who have especially stood out in demonstrating competent
communication, even in emotionally charged situations. I am not going to use
their full names in this post, just to maintain their privacy. Mr. T. and Mrs.
R. both exhibit extremely calm demeanors, even in difficult situations. When
addressing issues involving students, both educators approach the student on a
one on one basis, in close proximity, and calmly, quietly speak to the student
about his or her behavior and what the expectations are in the classroom. Both
educators also seek to understand the student and his or her needs in a
respectful manner before any disciplinary actions are taken. This measure is
important because we learned that it is just as important to try to see things
from the other person's perspective before we try to get the other person to
see our perspective. Both teachers are able to communicate effectively with
students and staff, because they clearly state their hope, need, or direction
to staff or students. As a result, both teachers have earned educator of the
year awards, and I look to them as role models for how I try to approach
different situations. Their openness,
honesty, composure and respect for students and colleagues leads to effective
communication and results in students learning and colleagues working together.
I hope to be that kind of teacher as I continue my career.
Celeste,
ReplyDeleteI like how you recognize the challenges you face when it comes to effectively communicating. I think everyone has challenges in communicating effectively when faced with difficult situations, but also feel that those challenges diminish the more we practice effective strategies, making them a part of who we are. For instance, I used to have difficulty maintaining my composure when faced with strong emotions, but I have learned to keep my emotions in check (for the most part). I think what I struggle with the majority of the time is practicing active listening, as I have a tendency to interrupt people when they talk. I am aware of this shortcoming, therefore, I do not believe I do it all the time, so maybe it is also improving with time. I think it is our awareness of our ineffective communications skills that will allow us to overcome them with more effective strategies. Thank you for sharing your perspective on competent communication, Celeste. :)
Pamela
Celeste,
ReplyDeleteThese a great examples of educators who are competent communicators. It is sometimes difficult to maintain our composure when faced with a difficult behavior problem of a child. I know that is something I work on myself every day I am working with children. I have come a long way, but it is a work in progress every day. It's great that you have such strong examples around you.