The art of Effective Interpersonal Communication

Healthy relationships are a cornerstone of a happy life, and their foundation is based on clear, effective, and compassionate communication. The good news is that these communication skills can be learned, and when you change your communication, you can change your life.

This course will focus on interpersonal communication in several contexts, including those with family, friends, and co-workers, as well as our own internal dialogues. We will address listening skills, basic conversational skills that lead to greater ease in interactions, gender differences, the role of technology, and how to use specific messages to express feelings and needs without implying judgment, criticism, or blame. We will also explore approaches to resolving conflict and dealing with power challenges through self-assertion.

In the course, you will develop a communication competence with the aid of readings, videos, role-plays, interviews, individual and group presentations, and group exercises, along with reflecting on your performance and receiving feedback from others. By the end of the course, you will have a greater repertoire of responses to situations involving conflict, you will understand various approaches to listening, and you will know how to achieve greater happiness and contentment in your relationships. This course may not be taken for a Letter Grade.