EDUC-6165: Strategies for Effective Intercultural Communication.

 

As communication means conveying or receiving data, I use active listening skills to make sure I understand. I pay close attention to get any cues that my information was received appropriately. Since intercultural knowledge involves communicating with a person that may hold distinctive values, beliefs, and perceptions on life, it requires being attentive and aware of the others’ nonverbal communication and our own.


Besides, approaching intercultural communication in a mindful and empathetic state of mind is essential, as empathy portrays our genuine interest in the conversation. Using the Being other-oriented approach is beneficial  (Beebe et al., 2011), referred to the Golden rule, which emphasizes communicating with others how we would like others to treat us. Being understood and respected based on our cultural background  (Beebe et al., 2011).


Furthermore, we should be vigilant and look for cues that will enhance our understanding of our diverse classroom when communicating with our students, families, and colleagues. We should be motivated to improve our verbal and nonverbal communication skills by observing and asking questions. Getting to know our students and their families on a deeper level will foster students’ social-emotional skills and sense of identity (Derman-Sparks &Edwards, 2010).


References:

Beebe, S. A., Beebe, s. J., & Redmond, M. V. (2011). Interpersonal communication: Relating to others (6th ed). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

Chapter 4, “Interpersonal  Communication and Diversity: Adapting to others” (pp. 85-114).

Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

 

 

 

Comments

  1. Travis AlumbaughNovember 22, 2020 at 7:38 AM

    Hi Ilana,
    I have learned much from your posts on others-oriented approaches to communication. This aligns with personal practices in my professional and personal lives. If the focus in early childhood education and care is service to those in need, development of this skill is crucial.

    Enjoyed reading and responding.
    Travis

    ReplyDelete
  2. Kamikka HughesNovember 22, 2020 at 9:33 PM

    Hi Ilana,

    We should want to gain a deeper understanding of our students, families, and colleagues because it's how we build trust and as early childhood professionals we have to look beyond first impressions and assumptions to get to know each other on a deeper level. (O'Hair, 2018)

    O'Hair, D., Wiemann, M., Mullin, D. I., & Teven, J. (2018). Real communication: An introduction (4th ed.). Bedford/St. Martin's.

    ReplyDelete

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