Five Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m.,
October 18, 25 and November 1, 8 and 15.
Conversation Skills is a Unity course that enhances effective communication skills to include the ability to stay in dialogue when emotions are running high, a "crucial conversation." This course provides knowledge and tools for listening, creating connection and facilitating dialogue in tough, emotional situations. The principles and models taught are aligned with spiritual practices. The class is based on the model of Nonviolent Communications (NVC), which includes: taking responsibility for our own experience; commitment to increasing our awareness of our own feelings and needs as well as those of the people with whom we interact; and having the capacity to be authentic and compassionate in all circumstances.
Course Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate the ability to listen from the heart in every situation
- Distinguish facts from stories in situations driven by emotions
- Create a safe environment for dialogue
- Apply spiritual principles and Nonviolent Communications in their daily communications.
Required readings:
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Crucial Conversations, Grenny Patterson. McMillan, Switzler, McGraw-Hill, 2002.
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Nonviolent Communications, Marshall Rosenberg, 2nd Edition, Puddle Dancer Press, 2003.
Suggested love offering for the class is $10-20 per session, or give what you can. No one is ever turned away for inability to pay.