Title: Identify communication skills needed to interact effectively with individuals and families.
Course: Family and Human Services I (19999-I) > Section: Developing Communication Skills

Identification should include

- verbal communication skills (e.g., listening, questioning, interviewing, explaining)
- written communication skills (e.g., note taking, transcribing, documenting, emailing)
- nonverbal skills (e.g., eye contact, facial expression, body language)
- skills used by people with special needs (e.g., sign language, braille, communication board, touch, signaling)
- teamwork skills
- conflict-resolution skills
- culturally sensitive communication practices.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- What contextual factors affect communication?
- How does culture affect communication?
- What ethical issues could be involved in expressing feelings, needs, and ideas with family, friends, colleagues, employers, and community members?

Communication

- What are some questions that can help clarify meaning?
- When might silence be the best response?
- How can communication affect conflict resolution?

Leadership

- How might values and beliefs influence communication?
- What conflict-resolution strategies can leaders use when dealing with individuals? With families?
- How can leaders prevent the escalation of conflict?

Management

- What resources can be effective in helping people develop communication skills?
- What strategies may be applied to prevent conflicts?
- Why might using various methods of conflict resolution be valuable?