To use effective communication, you must first listen. Each individual will have their own needs which means you need to constantly adapt how you communicate. This could be a language barrier, social background and even age. If you ensure that you tailor your communication to the child, young person or adult then you can begin the reversal of these factors and help with learning. If you don’t adapt for these issues when they come up, it can lead to a breakdown in communication.
Children need to feel safe, comfortable and confident in order to learn. Effective learning that takes into account language barriers and age can be rewarding for both the child and yourself, as good trusting relationships will be created and you can watch the child grow and learn and be happy.
Young people are a little more challenging. You have the usual things to take into account, but young people also have image and friendship influences. You may have to work around these things, listen to their opinions and ensure that they feel valued and accepted. You have the important role of making sure they are confident in communication for their move to the workplace or further education.
Effective communication with adults is crucial as you need to build relationships with the students and their parents, as well as co-workers to help the school run efficiently and in keeping with it’s values. This creates a positive learning environment, and sets a good example to students. Some examples of things to be aware of with adults are social, financial and cultural differences.