When I think of people who are effective communicators, many celebrities, politicians or news anchors come to mind, but I am removed from them. I only am aware of these great speakers through media outlets such as the news, talk shows, or newspapers.
Such as, in my opinion I feel the Ellen DeGenerous is one of the best talk show hosts I have seen. She is good at what she does because she is engaging, and can relate to her audience. She has a goal before she begins her show, and she delievers this goal.
On a personal level, I had a professor as an Undergraduate who taught a Sexual Studies course. Throughout this course we learned about the development of every spectrum of Sexuality. He included heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, asexual, transgender, transsexual and even some fetishes.
He was always engaging, and left the class open to discussion. No subject was taboo, and when a subject came up with stereotypes he explored where the stereotypes came from. The class was allowed to be curious, to discuss the subjects without feeling judged.
I think his was effective because he allowed for the open, honest communication in the classroom. He answered questions, and if he did not know the answer he actually researched it during the class.
A competent communicator can adjust their behavior to suit the situation, and this professor would adjust when he needed to be serious and demanding to have the class focus. The professor could also be on a level with the class, and act as an equal.
Resources:
O’Hair, D., & Wiemann, M. (2009). Communication: Essential Human Behavior. Real communication: An introduction. (pp. 3-28) New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s.
3 comments:
I certainly believe that one of the hallmarks of a competent communicator is his or her ability to hold listeners attention. When a person can grip your attention and sustain it, it implies that what the person is sharing is not only important but it also says that that person possesses the ability to engage you at a level that can effect change. As professionals it is important for us to ascribe to such level of communication. We need to be aware of our strengths and weaknesses and take steps to improve those areas of weaknesses. We must become brutally frank with ourselves if we are to enhance our skills. Thanks for sharing!
I feel you had a great professor in you sexuality class. It takes a person willing to be engaged with the audience and have a open mind to what everyone may say, do, or react. I feel people will listen to all that is being said, if they feel they are also given the time to express their own opinion without judgement. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Cassie,
I could tell from reading your blog that the professor taught you a lot while in his class. Also, I could tell the professor got your attention because he let all the students get involved in the learning environment. This makes him a very effective competent communicator.
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