COMMUNICATION

“
Communication is the way we build
and maintain relationships with other
people. Respectful communication is
necessary for our academic and
professional success.

”
In what ways will
communication affect your
academic success?
“
Like all gifts ‘which cometh
from above’, words are ‘sacred,
and must be spoken with care,
and by constraint of the Spirit’

”
Elder Holland
What does this quote mean
to you?
What examples can you
share about the importance
of communication in an
online atmosphere?
 INFERENCE
Making an
inference from
what you read
can be
summarized with
this simple
equation.
COMMUNICATION
It is an important factor in our
academic success. We need to
communicate with instructors,
classmates, advisors, staff and
more to make sure you are on
the right path.

How you communicate with

others affects how others view
you and treat you.
COMMUNICATION STYLES
There are four main communication styles:
AGRESSIVE COMMUNICATION
Causes fear, is forceful, and does not
consider the needs, rights or feelings of
others. It can feel powerful and can
seem effective as others may fear you
and do what you want as a result,
however, this sort of communication is
potentially quite harmful to others.
Ultimately is not very effective because
it does not encourage respect or
cooperation from others.
PASSIVE COMMUNICATION
It is submissive, avoids conflict at all
costs, and puts your own needs last. It
means giving in to unreasonable
demands from others and holding
back your opinion. Passive
communicators tend to avoid negative
criticism and the notice of others. They
focus on pleasing others at the cost of
their own needs and rights.
PASSIVE – AGGRESSIVE
COMMUNICATION
It is aggressive communication
disguised in a calm or even pleasing
tone of voice.
ASSERTIVE COMMUNICATION
It is clear in its intent, involves
standing up for your own rights
and wishes but respecting
others at the same time. These
communicators express their
feelings clearly, appropriately
and respectfully. This is the
most effective of the four
communication styles.
 COMMUNICATION STYLE
It is important to always communicate respectfully with others. It
is good to share your thoughts and opinions but it needs to be
done in a way that does not hurt anyone.

A person can communicate in two styles: DEFERENCE or

INITIATIVE. These differences can result in confusion and
frustration when interacting and are not a matter of right or
wrong, but they are something to be aware.

Deference means humble submission and respect.

Initiative means acting independently and taking charge before
someone else does.
 TIPS FOR ASSERTIVE COMMUNICATION
• Use “I” statements: “I feel”, “I think”, “What I would prefer”
• Avoid blaming others for how you feel
• Consider this assertive statements:
• When you
• I feel / I felt
• Because
• And what I would like in the future is or what I would prefer is

For example: “When you didn’t respond to my suggestion in the meeting, I felt
hurt and angry because it seemed that you did not value what I had to say.
What I would like in future is to be given space to express suggestions and
ideas”
Ask a follow up question if you need clarification
 TIPS FOR ASSERTIVE COMMUNICATION
Being assertive isn't just for problem situations. The same
assertive techniques are a great way to compliment, support
and encourage someone you care about. Being assertive
builds healthy relationships. As you communicate with your
group in a live meeting this week, be assertive. Actively
participate, respect the other members of your group and
when conflicts arise, use effective communication to work
toward a solution.