Collaborative Learning Community

Before enrolling into this course I thought I had a pretty good undertanding about what it means to communicate with someone else. It wasn't until I was forced to take another look at myself and the way I choose to communicate with others that I am able to realize some new things. For instance the value and importance in how communication is made with families, children and colleagues.

Communication has it's challenges as well "clearly effective communication is essential in all aspects of life, but we seldom get the guidance needed to develop the necessary skills associated with it". ( O'Hair, Wiemann, 2012) Working with non english speaking families i find myself trying to find creative ways to express information to them by using google translators, hand signals, pictures and repeating words i am comfortable with in spansish to the family.

I am often reminded of my favorite resturante to eat at, although the food is delious it always my experience that when i go in i am greeted with a warm and welcoming smile. We have small talk about my day and or week. It's even more warming when i call and order somehing different from my usual and the lady responds "oh, you're stepping outside of the box this time around" we laugh and say see you soon. I've notice that "Mona" does that for all of her customers.

Acknowledging that everyone's differences showcases various ways that they can impact another life. Commuication is such a beautiful thing because it encompasses "the process by which individuals use symbols, signs, and behaviors to exchange information"( O'Hair, Wiemann,2012)

It has been an absolute pleaure working alongside each and everyone of you. I've throughly enjoyed our disussions, providing me with increased knowledge to take with me on my continued journey.
As the days come to an end if there is any way possible i can be of asstance to any of you please do not hesitate to contact me. Best of luck to everyone.

Ebony

Reference:
O'Hair,D., Wiemann,M. Real Communication An Introduction (2012). Bedford/St. Martin's Boston. New York.