Who Am I as a Communicator?
I think the one thing that surprised me the most about the evaluations this week is that I see myself "elevate" communication anxiety and my other evaluators do not. Throughout my life, when I describe myself as "shy" most people tell me that they do not see me this way. However, deep down I know that I deplore public speaking, meeting and talking to new people, and eye contact when talking to someone. I am fully aware that all of these difficulties derive from a lack of social skills, in a certain sense, that are a direct result of my childhood.
Furthermore, another aspect that I learned this week about communication is that although I am a people-oriented listener, my evaluator also gathered a score that put me in the verbally aggressive section as well. Although I scored on a moderate level, my evaluator scored me in the significant level. In all honesty, I can concur with this finding in regards to my relationship with the evaluator. Which then led me to understand that I communicate differently with different people in my life.
So, I pose the questions: Does anyone else find this to be true? Do you communicate the same with every person in your life?
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Cultural Communication - Week 3
Cultural Communication
Do you find yourself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures?
If yes, in what ways do you communicate differently?
After much thought, I have come to the conclusion that I communicate with everyone, all groups and cultures, that same at first. Oddly enough, I realized that when I speak to someone of a different culture, that is not the first thing that comes to mind. Good or bad? I don't know. However, I think as I linger in the conversation with the person or a group of people, I then start to realize that there are cultural differences between us and I try to be respectful of those differences.
Based on what you have learned this week, share at least three strategies you could use to help you communicate more effectively with the people or groups you have identified.
1. The concept of cultural myopia, or a form of nearsightedness grounded in the belief that one's own culture is appropriate and relevant in all situations and to all people (O'Hair & Weimann, 2012) was a very large barrier in my life at one time. However, now that I have had experience with other cultures and have learned to be open to the differences that we may share, I can say that I no longer have trouble with cultural myopia. Therefore, my first strategy is to always remember to be open to other cultures and to practice active listening when participating in a conversation with someone from another culture.
2. Another strategy is to withhold judgement long enough to gain a deeper understanding than first impressions allow (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010). In other words, it is better to practice informational listening and empathic listening when talking with someone from another culture because it will allow you a better understanding of the person's intent and feelings. If a person is quick to judge someone from another culture, it can lead to generalizations and stereotypes.
3. Another strategy comes in the form of understanding that just because you do know about a person's culture, that does not mean that you can predict their behavior (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010). Again, generalizing other can lead to stereotypes that can then be based on to students and other parents or colleagues that we come in contact with each day.
References
Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.
Do you find yourself communicating differently with people from different groups and cultures?
If yes, in what ways do you communicate differently?
After much thought, I have come to the conclusion that I communicate with everyone, all groups and cultures, that same at first. Oddly enough, I realized that when I speak to someone of a different culture, that is not the first thing that comes to mind. Good or bad? I don't know. However, I think as I linger in the conversation with the person or a group of people, I then start to realize that there are cultural differences between us and I try to be respectful of those differences.
Based on what you have learned this week, share at least three strategies you could use to help you communicate more effectively with the people or groups you have identified.
1. The concept of cultural myopia, or a form of nearsightedness grounded in the belief that one's own culture is appropriate and relevant in all situations and to all people (O'Hair & Weimann, 2012) was a very large barrier in my life at one time. However, now that I have had experience with other cultures and have learned to be open to the differences that we may share, I can say that I no longer have trouble with cultural myopia. Therefore, my first strategy is to always remember to be open to other cultures and to practice active listening when participating in a conversation with someone from another culture.
2. Another strategy is to withhold judgement long enough to gain a deeper understanding than first impressions allow (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010). In other words, it is better to practice informational listening and empathic listening when talking with someone from another culture because it will allow you a better understanding of the person's intent and feelings. If a person is quick to judge someone from another culture, it can lead to generalizations and stereotypes.
3. Another strategy comes in the form of understanding that just because you do know about a person's culture, that does not mean that you can predict their behavior (Gonzalez-Mena, 2010). Again, generalizing other can lead to stereotypes that can then be based on to students and other parents or colleagues that we come in contact with each day.
References
Gonzalez-Mena, J. (2010). 50 strategies for communicating and working with diverse families. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
O'Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2012). Real communication. New York: Bedford/St. Martin's.
Communication and TV- Week 2
Communication and TV
I used an TV show that is controversial for the assignment, on purpose. "Real Time" with Bill Maher is a great example of communication.
With the sound off, I see facial expressions and hand gestures that all seem exaggerated. However, when I turn the sound on, I can see just by the nature of the issues that are being discussed that these types of communication are warranted.
When Bill Maher does his show on HBO, of course he can swear and say things that could not be said on regular TV. Yet, when you take a Democrat like Bill Maher and put him with a GOP or Republican, it seems that only certain types of communication is inherent. Obviously, more times than not there is arguing going on and interruptions by both parties during the conversation. The topic or issue is usually one that sets both sides up against each other. Therefore, conflict is inevitable.
Slang is used, as well as many euphemisms. But more importantly, even when the sound is off, there is a tension that you can see on both sides of the issue. The proximity of the guests on show is quite interesting as well. Usually, Bill Maher sits on one end of the table and the guests sit next to him in the order of political views, with the most clearly different point of view as far a way from him as possible. Furthermore, I think that Bill Maher's listening skills are tainted by his political agenda. He is clearly a passive listener and does not practice active listening at all during his conversations. I think he displays overconfidence is when what he knows when it comes to the issue at hand, which then does not allow him to openly listen to the speaker. He has selective listening and displays defensive listening when he responds with aggression and beings by arguing with the speaker.
My "aha" moment came when I realized that when discussing difficult topics, such as politics, you need to have an open mind. It is important to stay focused and listen fully to the speaker, whether you agree with their statements or not. It can be hard to put aside your view points on certain issues, but it is important when trying to collaborate with colleagues.
I used an TV show that is controversial for the assignment, on purpose. "Real Time" with Bill Maher is a great example of communication.
With the sound off, I see facial expressions and hand gestures that all seem exaggerated. However, when I turn the sound on, I can see just by the nature of the issues that are being discussed that these types of communication are warranted.
When Bill Maher does his show on HBO, of course he can swear and say things that could not be said on regular TV. Yet, when you take a Democrat like Bill Maher and put him with a GOP or Republican, it seems that only certain types of communication is inherent. Obviously, more times than not there is arguing going on and interruptions by both parties during the conversation. The topic or issue is usually one that sets both sides up against each other. Therefore, conflict is inevitable.
Slang is used, as well as many euphemisms. But more importantly, even when the sound is off, there is a tension that you can see on both sides of the issue. The proximity of the guests on show is quite interesting as well. Usually, Bill Maher sits on one end of the table and the guests sit next to him in the order of political views, with the most clearly different point of view as far a way from him as possible. Furthermore, I think that Bill Maher's listening skills are tainted by his political agenda. He is clearly a passive listener and does not practice active listening at all during his conversations. I think he displays overconfidence is when what he knows when it comes to the issue at hand, which then does not allow him to openly listen to the speaker. He has selective listening and displays defensive listening when he responds with aggression and beings by arguing with the speaker.
My "aha" moment came when I realized that when discussing difficult topics, such as politics, you need to have an open mind. It is important to stay focused and listen fully to the speaker, whether you agree with their statements or not. It can be hard to put aside your view points on certain issues, but it is important when trying to collaborate with colleagues.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Competent Communicator
Competent Communicator
After some thinking, I realized that one of my professors at Fresno State is the perfect example of a competent communicator. She was awesome communicator in all situations, but excelled in one on one conversations. She maintains eye contact, nods her head when she understands a point that you are trying to make, and only responds when she is sure you are done talking. Her feedback is usually on target with your questions and she keeps the answers focused in a positive direction. She never interrupts the speaker and never looses eye contact with the person.
This professor modeled some great communication tactics that I do in fact use when in conversation with others. I have learned to keep eye contact, wait to speak until the other person is done speaking and use good feedback when answering questions within the context of the conversation.
After some thinking, I realized that one of my professors at Fresno State is the perfect example of a competent communicator. She was awesome communicator in all situations, but excelled in one on one conversations. She maintains eye contact, nods her head when she understands a point that you are trying to make, and only responds when she is sure you are done talking. Her feedback is usually on target with your questions and she keeps the answers focused in a positive direction. She never interrupts the speaker and never looses eye contact with the person.
This professor modeled some great communication tactics that I do in fact use when in conversation with others. I have learned to keep eye contact, wait to speak until the other person is done speaking and use good feedback when answering questions within the context of the conversation.
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Professional Hopes and Goals
Professional Hopes and Goals
My most significant hope for working with families of diverse backgrounds is that I can make them feel comfortable asking questions that pertain to the well-being of their children. I want all parents to have a voice for their children and to know that they are their children's biggest advocate. I hope that all parents will know and understand that I am not here to judge them in any way.
It seems overwhelming to write that my goal for the early childhood field, in relation to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice, is to have world peace. However, I feel that if I start in my little corner of the world, then I am adding to an overall better place to live.
Thank you to my colleagues this semester for you openness and honesty in regards to the tough topic of diversity. I know that with new knowledge and the personal stories from you, I have gained a better understanding about races, ethnicities, cultures and customs that I did not know before this class.
My most significant hope for working with families of diverse backgrounds is that I can make them feel comfortable asking questions that pertain to the well-being of their children. I want all parents to have a voice for their children and to know that they are their children's biggest advocate. I hope that all parents will know and understand that I am not here to judge them in any way.
It seems overwhelming to write that my goal for the early childhood field, in relation to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice, is to have world peace. However, I feel that if I start in my little corner of the world, then I am adding to an overall better place to live.
Thank you to my colleagues this semester for you openness and honesty in regards to the tough topic of diversity. I know that with new knowledge and the personal stories from you, I have gained a better understanding about races, ethnicities, cultures and customs that I did not know before this class.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Welcoming Families From Around the World
Welcoming Families From Around the World
Lately I have been looking into my family tree. This class on diversity has catapulted me into wanting to know all about my ancestors.
So, for this assignment, I would pick that my family would be from either Sweden or Germany.
The five ways I would prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards the family are as follows:
1. Start at the library and gather as much information on the country of Sweden and Germany.
2. Learn to read and speak in their native tongue (as much as possible, until I could become proficient)
3. Ask friends and family if they knew anyone that migrated from these countries so that I could get a first hand account of what it may have been like in their country
4. Speak with colleagues that belong to organizations that are in Sweden or Germany.
5. Attempt to gather as much information on their home land, especially in regards to the other races, ethnicities, and social classes that exist in their individual towns and cities
The most important benefit of my preparations would be that I would make the families feel welcome in our country. I would hope that my understanding of where they come from would easy the transition period and make them feel that we in the United States do in fact care about their home land. Also, communication for the families would be easier if I was able to speak and read/write in their native tongue. Furthermore, I would hope to show the families that I have an in depth understanding of their culture, customs and ethnicity. All of these aspects would greatly benefit me because I would feel that I am encouraging the families to feel comfortable and wanted here in the United States.
Lately I have been looking into my family tree. This class on diversity has catapulted me into wanting to know all about my ancestors.
So, for this assignment, I would pick that my family would be from either Sweden or Germany.
The five ways I would prepare myself to be culturally responsive towards the family are as follows:
1. Start at the library and gather as much information on the country of Sweden and Germany.
2. Learn to read and speak in their native tongue (as much as possible, until I could become proficient)
3. Ask friends and family if they knew anyone that migrated from these countries so that I could get a first hand account of what it may have been like in their country
4. Speak with colleagues that belong to organizations that are in Sweden or Germany.
5. Attempt to gather as much information on their home land, especially in regards to the other races, ethnicities, and social classes that exist in their individual towns and cities
The most important benefit of my preparations would be that I would make the families feel welcome in our country. I would hope that my understanding of where they come from would easy the transition period and make them feel that we in the United States do in fact care about their home land. Also, communication for the families would be easier if I was able to speak and read/write in their native tongue. Furthermore, I would hope to show the families that I have an in depth understanding of their culture, customs and ethnicity. All of these aspects would greatly benefit me because I would feel that I am encouraging the families to feel comfortable and wanted here in the United States.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression
The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression
Of late, the most influential situation regarding prejudice was in the movie, The Help. If you have seen this movie, you know what I am talking about. If you have not seen it, I encourage you to watch it with an open mind and open heart.
The movie is based on a book that was written by a white author, however, the stories in the book are all told by black "maids" from the South in a time when segregation was still abundant.
With that said, you can imagine the types of prejudice, bias and oppression that were described and acted out in this movie. From major racial slurs, to out right mean and hatred for black people is all riddled throughout this movie.
For the most part, I cried during this movie. I have never seen such a moving expression of how people can be so unloving and hurtful to another human being just because of their race. These "maids" were made to use an outhouse to relieve themselves, eat in the kitchen and never with white people, and basically take abuse and racial slurs from their bosses just to keep their jobs.
Usually when I watch this type of movie I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame that my "white" ancestors would treat other human beings this way. I know it was another time; another world. However, it does still exist today in some parts of our country.
I can only hope that a movie such as this was an eye-opener for others. I can only hope that we are a country can learn to love and respect each others differences.
Of late, the most influential situation regarding prejudice was in the movie, The Help. If you have seen this movie, you know what I am talking about. If you have not seen it, I encourage you to watch it with an open mind and open heart.
The movie is based on a book that was written by a white author, however, the stories in the book are all told by black "maids" from the South in a time when segregation was still abundant.
With that said, you can imagine the types of prejudice, bias and oppression that were described and acted out in this movie. From major racial slurs, to out right mean and hatred for black people is all riddled throughout this movie.
For the most part, I cried during this movie. I have never seen such a moving expression of how people can be so unloving and hurtful to another human being just because of their race. These "maids" were made to use an outhouse to relieve themselves, eat in the kitchen and never with white people, and basically take abuse and racial slurs from their bosses just to keep their jobs.
Usually when I watch this type of movie I feel an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame that my "white" ancestors would treat other human beings this way. I know it was another time; another world. However, it does still exist today in some parts of our country.
I can only hope that a movie such as this was an eye-opener for others. I can only hope that we are a country can learn to love and respect each others differences.
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