Challenging effective listening traditional theory

In the 2005 article, “The Listening Style Inventory (LSI) as an Instrument for Improving Listening Skill,” Juanying Lu addresses the importance of effective and appropriate listening as key elements to successful communication. This concept is particularly relevant when, for example, writing newsletter articles and reporting on specific information. During interviews, one has to practice effective listening to understand and quote appropriately, confirming through feedback the accuracy of the message. In addition, one has to select what part of the message is relevant. In that regard, the statement “appropriateness addresses social acceptability of communication goals” (Lu, 2005) is not accurate. Appropriateness should be considered as a skill to differentiate what part of the information delivered is pertinent.

However, previous research from Dillon and McKenzie conducted in 1998 demonstrates that “a message has several purposes: to be understood; to understand others; to gain acceptance for yourself and/or for your ideas; and to produce action or change” (as cited in Lu, 2005.) Developing awareness of the listening process is a significant concept that one should reflect on upon reading Lu’s article. To improve communication skills, it is necessary to assess which predominant listening style applies and make a conscious effort to listen closely.

New technologies can present a challenge in communicating appropriately in an ever-increasing virtual and cross-cultural organizational world where information has become knowledge. According to Sheila Bentley, this affects “what we listen to, whom we listen to, and how we listen to” (Bentley, 2000.) We can no longer rely on nonverbal cues, direct feedback or comments to determine the meaning of a message. As a consequence, new listening behaviors are emerging in interpersonal relationships. On an intrapersonal level, the overload of information leads to “become more selective about what we listen to” (Bentley, 2000.)

To successfully communicate in the 21st century, it is important to take into account cultural differences in listening style and in the use of technology (Bentley, 2000.) The traditional concept of effective listening no longer applies. In that respect, Bentley’s article offers a new and more accurate perspective on challenges companies face to implement effective communication strategies and manage employees.

References
Bentley, Sheila. C. (2000). .Listening in the 21st century. International Journal of Listening. 14, pp. 129-142
Lu, Jianying. (2005). The listening style inventory as an instrument for improving listening skill. Sino-US English Teaching, 2(5), 45-50.

Successful Graduate Student Essay

To be a successful student, I will need to conduct appropriate research using the articles, databases or catalog search tools from the Franklin Library by consulting http://franklin.edu/go/library. I will attend library workshops to learn how to conduct successful research and use RefWorks, and submit writing review requests by consulting http://www.franklin.edu/go/slc. I will need to properly cite sources and avoid plagiarism, apply the Franklin University APA Style and Academic Integrity Guidelines, refer to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (5th ed.), and “The Gregg Reference Manual” from William A. Sabin (2004). I will need to master the use of the newest communication technologies such as blogs, and wikis.

I will also need to be able to conduct appropriate research and determine if a resource is valid, reliable, useful and appropriate. I will use critical thinking to analyze information and data, reason, make assumptions, infer evidence, evaluate concepts and ideas, and express my point of view. I will have to work in team effectively and monitor the use of my time according to the various assigned tasks. It will be essential to develop an appropriate schedule to study, work and combine family responsibilities. I will also need to know when to reassess a situation or learn to cope with any major problem.

I will need to strengthen my writing skills and learn to apply the American Psychological Association format guidelines regarding citations. I will also need to learn to use RefWorks, blogs and Wikis. Since English is a second language, I will need to overcome some potential language barriers and manage my time effectively.

I am organized and analytical, with good critical thinking skills. I am result driven and will take the necessary time to achieve good, quality results. I work well in teams, relate easily to others, and I am supportive.

Evaluating Resources Summary

One can assess if a resource is valid by checking if the information is accurate, objective, and contains up-to-date examples or other data. The scholarly article “Cultivation Theory” responds to those criteria.

One can check if a resource is reliable by checking if the author is objective and has authority over the subject. One should ask if the resource comes from a scholarly or popular source. An article such as “Cultivation Theory” or the book “Essentials of Business Communication” contains scientific or scholarly analysis and references. On the other hand, the “Persuasion Technology” Wikipedia page cannot be considered reliable since it is edited by various unknown sources.

One can check if a resource is useful by determining if the content is suitable for the research conducted. The scope, or breadth, of the material can cover an overview or a specific aspect of a topic. For example, the blog “Communication Nation” shows a palette of opinions on how to improve various aspects of communication. It is also important to determine the target audience, and if the content is basic or advanced. Evaluating resources in graduate school is essential because it allows students to use the most accurate and relevant information and provides the foundation and depth to support theories and hypotheses.

Although it is appropriate to use Wikipedia at the beginning when researching a topic to have a general overview of a subject, one should ultimately refer to more reliable sources. In that respect, it is better to use information coming from an encyclopedia, which has been submitted to several knowledgeable reviewers. It is essential to cite all sources accurately so the reader can go back and refer to them. These sources serve as supportive points for an argument.

Think outside the blog!!!

Hello all!

How exciting life can be! And how busy life can be too! How can one manage a fullfilled and happy life in Central Ohio?

This blog is about sharing ideas, recommendations, tips about how to achieve a glimpse of hapiness and fulfillment in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you are working, studying or just leasuring, share some of your ingights. Take the chance to make a change in your life and in the life or others! Share on this blog what makes your life a little more special. Are you an opera lover, a Buckeye fan, a scrapbooking freak, or anything else? What do you get out of it?

Spread your words, so others benefit from your passion. And if you have no passion yet, don't worry. This blog does not ask you to have one, just think about what makes your day special. This morning the brightness and warmth of the sun illuminated my day... This can be it! Life is short, let's make the most out of it! Carpe Diem!

Laurence