Concept for Further Discussion

One concept from the semester that I feel could use more discussing would have to be forms of nonlistening. From my understanding, nonlistening involves anything that is not "physically listening." Forms of nonlistening include pseudolistening, monopolizing conversations, selective and defensive listening, and ambushing. These forms of communication are a hazardous effect on relationships. Specifically, I would like to know more about the specific effects of these fouls in communications on relationships. One that stuck out to me is ambushing, which is listening carefully for the purpose of attacking a speaker. According to this, ambushers specifically listen for information that will be used against the speaker. This is interesting to me because I have seen it used in my everyday communication with friends. It is particularly interesting to learn more because I would like to know how to combat ambushers and what to do to let it not affect their relationships. 

Feedback for Class

My favorite thing about this Communications class, was it’s online format. I found this class easy to time-manage. Having a full schedule, a job, and managing the responsibilities with being in a sorority, it was easy to make time for this class. Also, I felt the online format was pretty effective. Blogging about chapters we read lead to a personal understanding of each subject. Also, for those who find it hard to share due to their shyness, blogging online about class gave me a wider variety of opinions from students. In on-campus class learning, I feel I only get feedback from the students that are confident with sharing in front of other classmates, but the environment of this online class eliminated that bias. Also, I felt the professor was extremely helpful in her feedback on essays, blog posts, and her willingness to meet with students regarding their grade or any other concerns with the class. 

Communicating Effectively

Something I have learned over the course of the semester, is how to communicate effectively. While I have learned many important things throughout this course, specifically, I have learned how to communicate effectively in romantic relationships. Before, I felt me and my boyfriend were in a semi-dysfunctional relationship. Now, I realize it is just gender differences in communication within our relationship. Specifically, he shows commitment by “doing”, while I always thought commitment was shown through words. He always wants to bond with me through activities, while I thought talking about feelings was the only way to bond effectively. This course has taught me that there are different dimensions to romantic relationships and different ways to deal with them. There are different styles of loving that lead to the growth and overall development of romantic relationships. Learning these different aspects of communications leads to a more effective way of achieving your communication goals with people.