“Listening is the most advising skill but also the most neglected communication skill” [3]. While all of us have had instruction in reading, writing, and speaking, few have had any formal instruction in listening. It is a vital communication skill, yet it is always being taken for granted that people are actually listening and understanding. “Both listening and speaking are crucial elements in any communication” [1]. While both are important each one has its place, and we need to devote due consideration to the two. Unfortunately, we all know which one most of us prefer and concentrate on the most. Copley stated, “Listening would be a lot more fun if you could talk while you were doing it” [2]. I think that statement speaks for itself.
Preparation Phases
Preparing to listen is an important aspect. Preparation consists of three phases long-term, mid-term, and short-term. To improve listening skills for long-term you must listen to difficult material and probably most important build vocabulary. Some skills to challenge your listening skills include:
1. Listen to various debates.
2. View material that requires concentration.
3. Try to answer questions on reality television shows.
Building vocabulary not only builds your reading and conversational skill but enhances your listening skills. The more words you master the better listener you will become. Mid-term preparation for listening requires doing a background study before your listening begins. This could include an advance look at a hard copy of an agenda or research topic before hand. Short-term preparation would be an immediate readiness to listen. When the facilitator starts to speak I am ready to open up my ears. I am always in the “spring-loaded position to listen”.
When listening to a facilitator or engaging in a conversation you should not be thinking of others things, but should be evaluating and organizing the person’s words. One way to achieve this is by taking notes. Some use of color-coding, perhaps one color during class or while in a meeting and another for enhancement and clarification after class [5]. If you sit passively, like a wet noodle, expecting to soak up knowledge, you are only half listening. To listen, you have to react by making your mind work. It’s kind of like a computer that begins to process data. By using this strategy causes you to think ahead and anticipate what’s next.
A Possible Weakness
Daydreaming is the biggest downfall as I am sure it is the most common for many people. Typically, when some person or thing is mentioned it triggers an association in ones mind and off you go into the daydreamer’s nightmare. When we return to realty and begin listening, again we may find that the third point is being discussed and have no clue what happened to the first and second. Some reasons for daydreaming are:
1. Stressful atmosphere at home or school.2. Wants to escape an unpleasant situation faced with.
3. Preoccupied in thoughts - physically present but mentally absent.
Final Thought
“Listening is a gift and a skill that can be learned with some dedication” [4]. By preparing yourself and using creative listening techniques this can be accomplished. It doesn’t cost a great deal of money, if any, yet it is priceless to the person whom you are listening to. After all, we are all human and must learn the gift of listening.
Sources:
[1]. Center for Excellence in Academic Advising. http://www.psu.edu/dus/cfe/actvlstn.htm
[2]. Copley. (2005, 2nd Edition). Adult Learning, page 35
[3]. Copley. (2005, 2nd Edition). Adult Learning, page 36
[4]. Copley. (2005, 2nd Edition). Adult Learning, page 123[5]. Listening Effectively-How to Become an Effective Listener. http://www.au.af.mil/au/awc/awcgate/kline-listen/b10ch5.htm
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