BARRIERS VS EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION SYNOPSIS: Through reflection and group discussion students will investigate elements that promote effective and ineffective communication. Learners will identify elements of ineffective and effective communication and relate them to the workplace, and interactions with elderly clients. DIRECTIONS: As a group discuss the following: $$ Think back to a time when you really felt uncomfortable communicating with another person, when you may have felt very unpleasant, and maybe even dehumanized. $$ What were some of the characteristics of that interaction that contributed to the lack of interpersonal communication? On your flip chart paper, develop a list of the characteristics that contributed to ineffective interpersonal communication, and prepare to share your list with the class. Participate in class discussion: $$ Think of times when you may have used or experienced these types of approaches Now as a group discuss the following: $$ Think back to a time when you really felt comfortable communicating with another person, when both of you were able to talk freely $$ What were some of the characteristics of that interaction that allowed for the successful communication? On their flip chart paper, develop a list of the characteristics that allowed for the effective interpersonal communication, and prepare to share your list with the class. Participate in class discussion: $$ How might this be applicable in the workplace? $$ What can workers do to promote effective communication? Note: Remember to demonstrate effective communication throughout the discussion periods with your fellow classmates. v