Yo peeps.
Ok. Communication. Something I believe I am fairly skilled at. Well, talking at least.
Communication is going to be huge in the next few semesters with this program. We're going to have to be skilled communicators with each other, with Heath, Allie, Silas, and Debra, and with all the incoming Hixsons, not just the ones in our respective recitations.
Not only are all of our communication styles different, but so will all of the incoming freshmen. I am a very open and honest person, and I know I'm going to have a hard time drawing a line between communicating and over stepping my boundaries after I become friends with my students. It's going to be something I'm going to have to be conscious of, and making an effort at daily.
Another thing is incorporating the students who aren't the most skilled communicators. There are going to be students in our classes who will be, for lack of a better term, "socially awkward". There were some in my recitation, and I'm sure there were some in everybody's. What were going to have to do as peer mentors is make sure the communication style in our classes works for everyone, especially the people who might be having a hard time communicating.
When we attended the Learning Community Institute, my session kind of touched on this and one of the things that was discussed was how when it comes to getting everyone acquainted with each other the best thing to do is start small. Pairing people up at first, and then maybe expanding into small groups, and then the class as a whole is the best bet for keeping everyone involved and comfortable. Even I get shy meeting new people! Even thought I'm sure none of you will ever believe that.
Have a great week everyone! Spring is on the waaaaay! :]
Chels
I really like your post. It is really hard trying to incorporate everyone into discussions and what not, especially since we do all communicate differently and have different comfort zones. The idea of gradually building up with communications from small to large group is really neat though. I think that would be very effective. Thanks for sharing! :)
ReplyDeleteI agree! We are going to use our communication skill not only to our students, but also to Debra, Health, Allie and Silas. As peer mentors we have to act as mediators from the instructors to the students. With good communication skills there will be less confusion.
ReplyDelete