Modules 17 and 18

Module 17 teaches us about listening. Remember, listening means decoding and interpreting sounds received correctly.  To be a good listener it helps to do four things: pay attention by avoiding distractions, focus on the speaker in a generous way by not looking for flaws when listening, do not make assumptions or ignore things you think are unnecessary, and listen for the speakers feelings in addition to the facts.  It helps to be an active listener, you can do this by demonstrating to the speaker that you have heard and understood them by asking questions, offering help, or paraphrasing them.  It is important to remember that you can still utilize these techniques and be a good listener even if you disagree with someone so that you can be seen to show respect.

Module 18 gives advice on how to work and write in teams.  Messages within a group are either information, meaning they focus on content; procedural, which are about method and process; or interpersonal, that are about the people in the group.  These different messages will be more abundant at various stages of group development. For example, interpersonal and procedural messages will be most common when the group is in the orientation stage.  A useful part of the module reminds us that positive roles and actions will help the group to achieve its goals.  Some of these things are seeking information and opinions, summarizing, evaluating, encouraging participation, and relieving tension.