To My Colleagues :

I would like to express to all my colleagues as well as my instructor how grateful that I am to have had the opportunity to share information and insights as a group. I would like to thank my colleagues for the information shared in the discussions including the feedback that was given among all and most of all thank each of you for asking me questions in response to my discussions. The questions required me to do additional research and/or think critically which gave me deeper insight on communication skills and what strategies to apply. This course has truly been very beneficial for my personal life and my profession.

I wish each of you the very best in your future endeavors. I encourage you  as colleagues and leaders to ensure that you continue to make effective communication skills an essential practice as an individual and as a professional. Effective communication is vital in order to be successful. Again, I thank each of you for all your support.

Adjourning

Adjourning is known as the end of the project (Abudi, 2010). This is the time in which the project and works are satisfied by all. Although there have been small challenges everyone works together and success prevailed. People have to move on and attend other projects and business however, made the effort to exchange information to keep in touch or perhaps meet up in the future to work together (Abudi, 2010).  However, a group with the established norms is known for moving beyond the individual goals but coming together willing to work ,resolve any conflict, agree with each and work towards a common goal  in order that the project move successfully (Abudi,2010).

Therefore, I believe the adjourning stage will be the example of the highest performing group that will be hard to leave. My experience with it being a group to leave was a group of colleagues that were putting together a project to assist with poverty in the community that will help people find employment. There were staff and many from the community offering ideas to resolve the problem and offering services to the individuals who needed jobs such as providing transportation. Some were providing temporary child care. I enjoyed working with this group. The reason this was a group hard to leave was because were working together for a very important cause.

Some closing rituals were that we exchanged information and still in other community meetings we see and work together in the same manner. We hugged and complimented each other on how genuine each was about fulfilling the goals for the project by providing their services. Each person encouraged one another to continue working in the community to help improve the status of others by providing a list of needs in the community.

Adjourning from my group of colleagues as I have formed while working on my master’s degree will definitely be a bitter –sweet move. I have learned so much from all of you. I have enjoyed each discussion, great feedback and getting to know many of you through the blogs. However because we live in different states, I hope to possibly meet many of you in trainings somewhere in the country in the future.  

The reason that adjourning is an essential stage is because this is time of wrapping up the project (Abudi, 2010). This means all has been completed to ensure success including documentation of best practices, discussion of what worked best and anything that can be improved if need be in the future. Applying these strategies can support a group in determining working together in the future (Abudi, 2010).  

                                                                    References

 Abudi, G. (2010). The Five Stages of Team Development: A Case Study. Retrieved from:  https://www.projectsmart.co.uk/the-five-stages-of-team-development-a-case-study.php 

Nonviolent Communication and Conflict Management

Think about any disagreements, or conflicts, you have recently experienced or are currently experiencing at work with a supervisor or colleague, or someone in your personal life.

My first thoughts of a recent disagreement that took place were at my part time job. We were at a staff meeting with the new supervisor. The morning staff who is there every day were discussing that there is a problem with the children entering the diapering area as staff are trying to change children. The diapering table is mounted on the wall like middle way the room and  the staff has to walk across the room for children belongings with assistance of other staff much of the time. The changing table was located in a corner of the room, near the sink, near the storage of the children’s belongings and near a shelf that holds the hazards items to keep them out of reach of children. In this same location in which the changing table was located is a camera. Currently staff complained that they need maintenance to put a gate inside the fence to keep children from being the way of changing and not to get to hazard items. I suggested as I had twice since the change however, we have had 2 supervisors since then. I suggested that the changing table be mounted back to the wall in the original location because the shelf is up high to put hazard items, children’s belongings are in reach of the person changing the child, the sink is in close proximity and the camera is there to protect the staff and child. One staff member begins speaking aggressively and saying no the changing talking does not need to be moved. I asked her which was more problematic the children being in her was of diapering or to move the changing table. She stated, “The changing table doesn’t need to be moved.” The manner in which she was talking the disagreement was an unproductive one.  Therefore, I allowed her to express herself completely at this point. Finally, the new supervisor stated that she will go take a look at the set up because she hasn’t paid it a lot of attention.

Share at least two strategies you have learned about that might help you manage or resolve the conflict more productively, and why these strategies might be effective. For example, could you suggest a compromise? Could you look for a broader range of solutions to your disagreement? Could you use some of the principles of nonviolent communication or the 3 R’s to better help you resolve this conflict?

One strategy I learned about that might help you manage or resolve the conflict more productively, through Productive conflict (O’Hair, Wiemann, Mullin, & Teven, 2015). Productive conflict would support a compromise between me and the staff that was in disagreement possibly by getting input from other staff that work in the nursey. Productive conflict promotes healthy debate by allowing each staff to give their opinion, evaluate the situation as a whole and ensure each person thoughts are clarified about the best location of the diapering table considering safety for all (O’Hair, Wiemann, Mullin, & Teven, 2015). I believe another strategy would be applying 3 R’s which include respect, respond and relationships (Chesire, 2007). Respect in this case that each staff respect the thoughts of all present. Response in this case the manner in which staff respond with sensitivity verses aggressiveness. Relationships in this case that relationship be maintained in order that the needs of the children are met through nourishment (Chesire, 2007). 

Also, if appropriate, ask your colleagues for their input and advice regarding, if not specific problems, how they have learned to be more effective communicators as it relates to conflict resolution skills.

To my colleagues, is there another strategy you would add or use instead in the disagreement presented above? If so, please share.

References

O’Hair, D. Wiemann, M., Mulin, D.I., and Teven, J. (2015). Real Communication (3rd. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s

Chesire N. (2007). The 3 R’s: Gateway to Infant Toddler Learning. Dimensions of Early Childhood, Volume 35, No. 3.

Evaluated as a Communicator

 Think about the similarities and differences between how you evaluated yourself as a communicator and how others evaluated you.

I enjoyed the opportunity to complete the assessments which allowed me to see how I perceive myself and how others perception of me. I learned some new things and I also confirmed some. Ironically I, my husband and my co-worker evaluated me with the same results in all areas. The Communication anxiety score was elevated revealing that I feel uncomfortable in several communication contexts (Rubin, Palm green & Sypher, 2009).  In this any I found it true that I become nervous at times when speaking in a large audience verses a small audience.  The Verbal Aggressiveness the scores evaluated me as significant.  Results states with little attempt to provoke one and become argumentative. I am consistent in the manner of respect and consideration for other people thoughts (Rubin, Palmgreen & Sypher, 2009). Listening Styles assessment myself, my husband and coworker evaluated me at Group one which is people oriented. These results reveal that I have empathy and show concern for others in which can cause interference in the way I judge.

What is the one thing that surprised you the most? Why?

The one thing that surprised me was that my self, my husband and coworker evaluated each test ending in the same results. I say this because there is a possibility that I communicate with everyone in the same manner.

What other insights about communication did you gain this week? Choose at least two to share with others through your blog and consider how each might inform your professional work and personal life.

The insight I gained this week is that self-monitoring must in involve an appropriate level to ensure one is not so hard on themselves that it causes stress (O’Hair, Wiemann, Mullin, & Teven, 2015). Secondly, I found that the most influence of the thoughts about me is self-concept, self-esteem and self-efficacy (O’Hair, Wiemann, Mullin, & Teven, 2015). These can inform my professional work and personal life in a manner that I recognize my weakness and areas for need of improvement and develop goals so that I can improve self-perception.

References

O’Hair,D. Wiemann, M., Mulin, D.I., and Teven, J. (2015). Real Communication (3rd. ed). New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s

Rubin, R.B.,Palmgreen, P., & Sypher, H.E (Eds.) (2009). Communication research measures: A sourcebook. New York: Routrledge

Effective Communication Among Cultural Diversity Groups

There are many occasions that I have found myself communicating differently with people of different culture such as race, religion and sexual orientation etc. Some of these different groups are family, neighbors, co-workers and people in the community. The manner that I have communicated differently is putting forth the effort to seek an interpreter when I notice there are language barriers, maintain a pleasant tone when speaking and respecting individual cultural beliefs. I use visuals with children at times.The experience that I had with a family of a different culture caused me to be aware of  cultural differences.  I went on a home visit and had no clue that the manner that the Hispanic family offered food when people come over was a cultural belief. I turned down the food in which the respectful behavior was to except the food with thanksgiving. This taught me to always make myself aware of cultural differences from that point on. Therefore this course has been providing me with that.

Through the resources provided on this week, the strategies that I found that can help me communicate more effectively with people of other cultures or group is to be mindful by accepting that there is a reason behind the actions a person takes when interacting with someone from a different background other than one’s own (Beebe, Beebe, & Redmond, 2011, p. 108). Another strategy is to  actively seek information by learning about the many cultures in the world to ensure awareness and ask questions to avoid assumptions and listen for answers to ensure clarity so there won’t be any misunderstanding that may cause one to be offended (Beebe, Beebe, & Redmond, 2011, p. 114).

                                                                    References

Beebe, S. A. Beebe, S. J. & Redmond, M V. (2011). Interpersonal Communication: Relating to others (6th ed) Boston, MA. Chapter 4 “Interpersonal Communication and Diversity: Adapting to Others” (pp. 85-115)

Nonverbal verses Verbal Communication

The show I watched was “All American -Pilot.” This was my first time watching this show.

Watching the show with the sound off:  The relationship of the two main characters look to be that of friends while the majority of the remaining characters seem to be enemies of one of the main characters. The nonverbal behavior that I observed regarding feeling and expression were lots of smiling and eye to eye contact between a variety of characters, dazed eye contact , fist pound, looks of curiosity, gentle touches, rolling of the eyes, cheering one on, looks of deceit ,looks of concern, looks of dislikes, looks of excitement, frustration, some fussing, fighting, looks of serious conversation, tears, expression of empathy , mood change from happy to anger, expression of insecurity, smiles, hugs, look of confidence, sense of acceptance  and handshakes.

Watching the show with the sound on: The assumption I made reflected my thoughts from the observation were the show seems to be of two main characters relationships that are based on the main player’s success in football and they look to be friends. With sound turned up the reality was as I assumed to be true. The nonverbal behavior reveals that this was a time of rejection of the main player. The other players were jealous and deceived him due to his great ability to play football. This cause tears, frustration, a variety of negative feelings and later empathy applied as well.

 I believe my assumption of the other characters ability would have been more predictable if I watched this show before or regularly.

Through this experience I believe as professional it is essential that we hear, be effective listeners and be careful with the assumption of nonverbal communication because there is a big chance one’s assumption is not always accurate.

An Example of an Effective Communicator

My former supervisor is one who is an effective communicator. She displays these skills in a variety of ways. She has an open door policy which allows any staff to come at any time they have questions or concerns. She is a great listener to what each person has to say as she has shown in individual and group meetings. She makes eye contact and keeps conversation confidential. Once I have conversation with her she provides feedback and when needed she follows up in a timely manner. A few days later she will ask you how things are going regarding my concerns. During meetings she ensures everyone has the opportunity to speak and allows time for each person’s response. She responds to all as needed. When she starts the meetings she asks that we all respect each other as we desire the same respect. Most of all she show empathy and she ensures she understands by clarifying what is being said.  I have always felt confident in talking to her when I needed to because she always showed the same manner I which she communicated.

The communication behaviors that I would model after my former supervisor is that she is one who is an active listener, her willingness to listen at any time, she shows that she cares about your concerns. I would model the manner that she shows is respect and respects confidentiality and provides feedback in a timely manner. The reason I would like to model these behaviors is because it provides a sense of confidence and it builds trust.

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

I would like to express how greatly this class has helped me to understand diversity, equity, and social justice. I must say I learned that I have to look deeper with myself in regards to addressing each of these. I learned that I have to be more open minded to provide others the respect they deserve. The hope that I have is that I increase my cultural responsiveness and as I increase cultural understanding in order to serve children and family with respect that they deserve. Through I hope that others will follow and embrace cultural differences.

The goal that I would like to set is that I become more aware and cautious of the early childhood field as it relates to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice so I can better serve all children and families. This goal will assist me in responding appropriately to the culture differences.

Note of Thanks:

To all my colleagues, I believe that we have all greatly poured into each other as well as we have drawn from one another. I would like to thank you all for your response and for all you shared which has helped shape me in some form or fashion in regards to addressing and responding to issues of diversity, equity, and social justice. Pray each of you all the success in the future endeavors in the Early Childhood Field.

Welcoming Families From Around the World

Haiti

The family is enrolling in a child care center. The family country of origin is Haiti. Haiti located between the Caribbean and North Atlantic Ocean. The official language spoken in Haiti is French and Creole (Central Agency US, 2019).

The five ways to make preparation for inclusion in regards to culturally responsiveness would be:

• Research and find out information about Haiti. I would find out the dominant language spoken and if possible provide an interpreter.  I would research the religion practices to bring awareness to myself and be providing the respect for the family.
• Speak with other staff about their knowledge about the country or their previous experience with families of this country if staff had any or advice (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010). 
• Schedule a conference with the family recommending we meet at a time they can attend. This will be a time in which I will allow myself to become knowledgeable of the family diversity such as religion, home language, education and interactions from the child’s perspective and the family get to know me as well. A time to begin relationship building.
• Inform current students of the child and country in which the child is coming from in order to promote positive relationships (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010).  I will inform children on information about the child’s country and home language and introduce the children to the basic greetings of French and Creole. 
• Create an inviting, inclusive and supporting environment. I would have labels that are in English as well as the child’s home language, pictures of familiar places of Haiti, books and purchase items for all centers that represent Haiti this will include family in the curriculum (Derman-Sparks & Edwards, 2010). 

My hopes in implementing these five steps is that the child and family find security and positive relationships in the classroom learning and center as a whole. I would like that through these steps the child and family will find freedom in expressing themselves at all times. The benefit I hope for myself would be that of a great experience and that I provide the family with the best learning experience that they the child has ever had and that I take this a an opportunity to learn as well.

                                                                      References

Central Agency US, 2019.Retrieved on June 22, 2019 from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/print_ha.html

Derman-Sparks, L., & Edwards, J. O. (2010). Anti-bias education for young children and ourselves. Washington, DC: National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

The incident that comes to mind when I think of witnessing someone else as the target of bias, prejudice, and/or oppression was the movie entitled, “The Hate You Give.” This was a movie of Starr (an African-American young female) who was a part of the poor neighborhood and her parents had her to go to a school in the suburban. This young African-American female felt somewhat different between these two ways of life. However, she meets up with a neighborhood friend Khalil (young black male). She ends up meeting up Khalil at a party and she allows Khalil the opportunity to take her home. On the way home Khalil discuss getting back together and she informs him that she has a new boyfriend (who is a young Caucasian male) from the school she attends in the suburban.

Khalil continue on taking Starr home and talk about old times. Suddenly, the two are pulled by the police. The police give the teen instructions and goes to check Khalil information. Khalil continue stand outside the vehicle. He was constantly talking to Starr, as Starr told him to keep his hands where they can be seen to avoid a possibility of police brutality. However, Khalil reaches for his brush and the police immediately begin shooting Khalil without question and kill him. The police handcuff Starr and place her near her dying friend. The community is outrage and the character of Khalil is questioned by a Caucasian friend. She stops dealing with her.  Starr suffers majorly by being interrogated and later suffers from post-traumatic stress syndrome (oppression).

Here we have seen this in many cases in American and this continues. The officer most all the time get off. I find this to be disturbing because of the many times it has happened and the fact that I am raising an African-American male. This child who was shot verses a police officer who knows this a teenager that is young and doesn’t even question. Therefore, the job of the officer was to ensure that the young male had a weapon indeed. Many felt that he was target from the beginning because there wasn’t a defined reason to stop Khalil. In many opinions, this is the case many times when it comes to police brutality. In many of these cases the justice system continues to fell the victims in these cases of similar or the same.