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Semester 1: Communication for Social Work
Public Speaking - Power, Developing Confidence, Planning, Preparation, Successful and effective delivery
Public Speaking
Power in Public Speaking
Power in public speaking can be derived from understanding the audience and context. Speakers must know how to engage their audience and command attention through body language and vocal variety.
Developing Confidence
Confidence can be built through practice and preparation. Understanding the material thoroughly and rehearsing speeches can significantly reduce anxiety.
Planning and Preparation
Effective public speaking requires careful planning and preparation. This includes organizing the speech structure, creating outlines, and anticipating questions or challenges from the audience.
Successful and Effective Delivery
Successful delivery involves not just the content but how it is presented. This includes the speaker's tone, pacing, eye contact, and the use of visual aids to enhance understanding.
Group Discussion - What, Why, Preparation, Skills, Traits, Initiating, Non-verbal communication, Types
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Group discussions are a collaborative way for individuals to share ideas and perspectives on a specific topic. They foster an environment of learning and understanding among participants.
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Group discussions encourage critical thinking, enhance communication skills, and allow for the exploration of diverse opinions. They are essential in social work as they support collective problem-solving.
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Effective preparation involves selecting a relevant topic, setting an agenda, and ensuring that all participants have access to necessary materials. It is also helpful to establish ground rules for discussion.
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Key skills for participants include active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and summarization. Facilitators should be skilled in guiding conversations and managing group dynamics.
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Important traits for effective group discussion include openness to diverse viewpoints, patience, respect for others, and adaptability. Participants should be willing to engage and share.
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To initiate a group discussion, one should start with an ice breaker or a thought-provoking question. Clearly stating the objective and ensuring everyone understands their role can set the tone.
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Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in group discussions. Body language, eye contact, and facial expressions can convey engagement, interest, or disagreement without spoken words.
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Group discussions can vary in format including structured discussions with set questions, open discussions that allow free-flow, and breakout sessions for smaller groups. Each type serves different purposes in the communication process.
Interviews - 21st century, strategies, details, practising, Stress Interviews, Traditional interviews
Interviews in the 21st Century
Overview of Interviews
Interviews are a critical part of the hiring process, serving as a means for employers to assess candidates' suitability for roles. In the 21st century, the interview process has evolved to incorporate various methods and technologies.
Types of Interviews
There are several types of interviews including traditional interviews, behavioral interviews, stress interviews, and panel interviews. Each type serves different purposes and requires unique strategies.
Strategies for Success
Effective interview strategies include thorough preparation, understanding the role and company, practicing responses to common questions, and developing a personal brand that aligns with the organization.
Practicing for Interviews
Mock interviews and practicing with peers can enhance confidence and improve communication skills. Role-playing different types of interviews can also prepare candidates for unexpected questions.
Stress Interviews
Stress interviews are designed to gauge how candidates handle pressure. Techniques may include rapid-fire questioning or challenging the candidate's answers. Candidates should stay calm and composed.
Traditional Interviews
Traditional interviews typically involve one-on-one interactions and focus on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and fit for the company culture. Building rapport with the interviewer is essential.
Writing skills - Basics, Paragraphs, Letters, Emails, Research articles, Report writing, CV
Writing skills in the context of Communication for Social Work
Fundamental principles of writing including clarity, coherence, and structure.
Purpose
Audience
Tone
Style
A paragraph consists of a topic sentence, supporting sentences, and a concluding sentence.
Generally, a paragraph should be 3-5 sentences long, keeping the reader engaged.
Structure includes sender's address, date, recipient's address, greeting, body, closing, and signature.
Casual tone with a friendly greeting and closing.
Subject line, professional greeting, clear body content, and polite closing.
Be concise
Use bullet points for clarity
Proofread before sending
Contributes to academic knowledge and professional practice in social work.
Abstract
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
To communicate information in a clear and structured manner.
Title page
Summary
Introduction
Methods
Results
Discussion
Conclusion
References
To present an individual's skills, experience, and education professionally.
Contact Information
Objective
Education
Experience
Skills
References
Non-verbal Communication - Body Language, Types, Facial expression, Body movement, posture, Gestures, Eye contact, Touch, Space, Voice, Evaluating non-verbal signals
Non-verbal Communication
Body Language
Body language includes gestures, posture, and facial expressions that communicate messages without words. It is often a reflection of a person's emotions, attitudes, and reactions.
Types of Non-verbal Communication
Types include body language, facial expressions, gestures, posture, eye contact, touch, space, and vocal tone. Each type plays a distinct role in conveying meaning.
Facial Expression
Facial expressions can convey a range of emotions, from happiness to anger. Understanding these expressions is key to interpreting the emotional state of others.
Body Movement
Body movement encompasses how individuals move their bodies to express emotions. This includes walking styles and movements that can indicate confidence or anxiety.
Posture
Posture reflects a person's self-esteem and comfort level. Open posture suggests openness and confidence, while closed posture can imply defensiveness or insecurity.
Gestures
Gestures are hand or body movements used to convey messages. They can vary widely between cultures and can reinforce or contradict spoken words.
Eye Contact
Eye contact is essential in communication. It can indicate engagement, aggression, or affection. The amount and type of eye contact can vary by culture.
Touch
Touch can communicate warmth, affection, or aggression. Its interpretation often depends on context, relationship, and cultural background.
Space (Proxemics)
Space refers to the physical distance between individuals during interaction. Proxemics varies across cultures, with different norms regarding personal space.
Voice (Paralanguage)
Voice includes tone, pitch, and volume. These vocal elements can dramatically affect the interpretation of spoken words.
Evaluating Non-verbal Signals
Evaluating non-verbal signals requires context consideration. Observing clusters of signals rather than isolated gestures can lead to a better understanding of intent and emotion.
