Working in groups of three, have one person talk about a difficult decision. As your classmate describes the situation, have a second person listen, using skills discussed in this chapter. The listener just needs to listen—not give advice or help the speaker solve the problem. The third person in your group should take notes on how the listener uses the skills in Figure 22.

After about three minutes of conversation, have both the speaker and observer give feedback to the listener. Which skills were used most effectively, and which skills could the listener improve? If you have time, switch roles so everyone has a chance to practice listening skills. After each person receives feedback, debrief the activity. What did you each learn about yourself and your listening skills?

Figure 22

Transcribed Image Text:

SKILLS Gives the speaker undivided attention Stays open-minded Doesn't interrupt Involves oneself by doing the following: - Maintains eye contact - Nods in agreement - Leans forward - Uses encouraging phrases ("Uh huh," "I see") - Responds (paraphrases and reflects) RATING 12 1 1 2 3 2 3 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 3 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5