Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone who is distracted? Maybe they were watching a television show or looking at their phone as you attempted to convey important information. Perhaps you asked if they understood what you were saying, and they repeated the last few words you said but were obviously missing the point. At this point in the conversation, the most likely phrase to follow is, “Are you even listening to me?” In situations like this, it becomes clear how important listening is in facilitating a healthy conversation, but there are also more subtle ways in which we can improve our listening skills.

In this Discussion, you will reflect on the behaviors used by both good and poor listeners and use this analysis to identify key behaviors for effective listening.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Consider two specific individuals to refer to for this Discussion—one whom you consider to be a good listener and a second whom you consider to be a poor listener. Make sure to conceal their identity in your post. 

BY DAY 3

Post an analysis of the specific behaviors each individual does or does not use when listening. In your analysis, do the following:

• Describe the nonverbal and verbal behaviors and actions of each individual as they listen to you.
• Describe how each individual checks (or fails to check) for understanding.
• Analyze how each individual’s listening skills have affected either the outcomes you are jointly trying to achieve, your relationship over time, or both.
• Analyze how your observations align with or extend ideas on active listening from this week’s Learning Resources.

Refer to the Week 5 Discussion 1 Rubric for specific grading elements and criteria. Your Instructor will use this grading rubric to assess your work.

Read some of your colleagues’ postings.