Improving competence interpersonal communication

Improving competence interpersonal communication

Purpose of the Paper

All of us, no matter how learned or skilled in the field of communication, still experience problems communicating interpersonally with others to some degree, so we need to find ways to increase our competence as communicators. By completing this paper I hope you will gain both confidence and ability to more effectively deal with interpersonal communication problems in the future.

Specifics of the Paper

In this paper, you will:

(1) describe a single aspect of interpersonal communication that you recognize as being an area of needed improvement for yourself BOLD TYPE THE ASPECT FOR IMPROVEMENT. For example, it might be listening, or conflict resolution, or so on.

(2) apply 3 theories (no more no less – bold type the names of the theories or lose points) or concepts from our textbook and/or class Power Points to analyze why you might encounter some of the communication problems that you experience. By now you should be able to dig deep. For example, you will not receive credit if one of the concepts you select is “conflict.” You need to be specific about the exact nuance of conflict communication you want to apply. See the text for specifics. Remember to cite the specifics.

(3) describe a plan of action for improving communication competence in that area you’ve discussed, using theories and concepts from text reading and/or online lectures or class information. Bold face the words Plan of Action so I know when you begin to talk about the plan.

In selecting the theories or theoretical concepts, be as specific as possible, for example “trust” won’t work; “human communication” won’t work; “friendship” won’t work. Dig into the topic and find the theory that explains how it operates. at this point in the class I expect 3 unique views of the learning statement. Do not select, for example, active listening, shared listening, and competent listening. They are all listening. Go into the process to describe what you learned about listening, using 3 unique concepts.

Finally, the Plan of Action NEEDS to be the final paragraph and type Plan of Action in bold type so I know, you know.

This paper should be written in first person, “I,” not “you” or “they.”

Check your grammar, mechanics, etc. This is your last shot to show me what you learned. It should be your best shot.

Selecting a Topic Area

One way to proceed with this paper is to think of situations where you find it difficult to engage in communication or to achieve your communication goals. For example, maybe you find it difficult not to compete during interpersonal conflict, maybe you’re just not sure how to disclose feelings in a relationship that is important to you, or maybe you don’t know how to effectively listen to a child or parent.

Another suggestion is to make notes of topics discussed in your text with which you can personally identify. For example, after reading the text you may realize that you use language in unconventional ways, possibly in detrimental ways. Or, after reading about nonverbal communication, you realize that you misinterpret a friend’s facial expressions a great deal.

Format of the paper

The paper should be 500 – 750 words. No fluff. Headings, title pages, and works cited pages do NOT count toward your word count. The greatest part of the paper should be devoted to how the 3 theories or concepts will help you improve. Spend your words carefully.
The paper should include documentation of your source(s) – at a minimum, you should cite our textbook in a works cited page.
The paper should be double-spaced the paper with 12 point Time New Roman font.
DO NOT define the theory. By now I know you know the definition and if you apply it incorrectly in the paper, it will be obvious. Use your limited words for a deep learning statement, not definitions.