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ST411 - Interpersonal Communication

Overview

An Interpersonal Communication course explores the fundamental principles and theories that underpin effective communication between individuals. Students delve into topics such as verbal and nonverbal communication, active listening, conflict resolution, and cultural awareness, gaining insight into how communication shapes relationships in various contexts, including personal, professional, and social settings. The course emphasizes the development of crucial skills like empathy, self-awareness, and assertiveness, enabling students to navigate diverse communication challenges successfully. Through interactive activities, role-playing, and case studies, students learn to analyze communication dynamics, improve their interpersonal skills, and cultivate a deeper understanding of human interaction. Ultimately, the course equips students with the tools to communicate confidently, respectfully, and authentically in a wide range of interpersonal situations.

Duration

1 Day

Objective

  • Understand Communication Principles: Learn the basics of effective verbal and nonverbal communication.

  • Develop Active Listening Skills: Enhance the ability to listen attentively and empathetically.

  • Cultivate Empathy and Understanding: Gain insight into different perspectives and cultures to foster empathy.

  • Improve Conflict Resolution: Acquire techniques to resolve conflicts constructively and diplomatically.

  • Enhance Self-Awareness: Reflect on personal communication styles and improve self-awareness.

  • Build Assertiveness: Develop the confidence to express thoughts, feelings, and needs assertively.

  • Navigate Interpersonal Relationships: Understand how communication influences relationships in personal and professional contexts.

  • Apply Communication Skills: Practice communication techniques through role-playing, discussions, and real-life scenarios.

  • Promote Respectful Communication: Learn to communicate respectfully, considering diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.

  • Develop Effective Social Skills: Enhance social competence for building positive relationships in various social situations.

Course Outline

I. Introduction to Interpersonal Communication

  • Definition and Importance of Interpersonal Communication

  • The Role of Culture in Interpersonal Communication

  • Key Communication Models and Theories

II. Verbal and Nonverbal Communication

  • Effective Verbal Communication: Language and Expression

  • Nonverbal Communication: Body Language, Facial Expressions, and Gestures

  • Paralanguage: Tone, Pitch, and Volume

III. Listening Skills and Empathy

  • Active Listening Techniques

  • Empathetic Listening and Understanding Emotions

  • Overcoming Barriers to Listening

IV. Interpersonal Relationships

  • Developing and Maintaining Relationships

  • Relationship Stages: Beginning, Maintenance, and Termination

  • Interpersonal Attraction and Intimacy

V. Conflict Resolution and Negotiation

  • Types of Conflict: Intrapersonal, Interpersonal, and Intergroup

  • Conflict Resolution Styles: Avoidance, Accommodation, Competition, Compromise, Collaboration

  • Mediation and Negotiation Skills

VI. Interpersonal Communication in Professional Contexts

  • Effective Communication in the Workplace

  • Interpersonal Communication in Leadership and Management

  • Communicating with Colleagues, Subordinates, and Superiors

VII. Ethical and Cross-Cultural Communication

  • Ethical Considerations in Interpersonal Communication

  • Cultural Differences in Communication Styles

  • Communicating Respectfully Across Cultures

VIII. Technology and Interpersonal Communication

  • Interpersonal Communication in the Digital Age

  • Online Etiquette and Netiquette

  • Balancing Online and Offline Relationships

IX. Gender and Interpersonal Communication

  • Gender Differences in Communication Styles

  • Gender and Emotional Expression

  • Overcoming Gender Stereotypes in Communication

X. Developing Interpersonal Communication Skills

  • Assertiveness Training

  • Building Self-Confidence in Communication

  • Public Speaking and Presentation Skills

XI. Conclusion and Practical Applications

  • Applying Interpersonal Communication Skills in Real-Life Situations

  • Creating Personal Communication Improvement Plans

  • Resources for Further Development

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