Working with Individuals and Small Groups in a Learning Environment

Working with Individuals and Small Groups in a Learning Environment
      1.1 Review models of communication for working with individuals and small groups in a learning environment
Effective communication is essential for the progression of learners. When working with individuals and smaller groups it is easier to invest time and effort in to using appropriate communication methods to meet the needs of the learners. Shannon and Weaver (1994) suggested that the communication model contains several attributes; and encoder, a message, a channel, a decoder and a receiver. If any of these elements are absent, communication will not be successful. The model, suggested by Shannon and Weaver, describes how a message is transmitted but fails to identify needs of individuals, and the possibility that a message may not be received or understood (due to learning difficulties, language barriers, or other barriers). Therefore, when communicating with individuals and small groups several skills are required to ensure that communication is effective.(Wilson, 2009).
      1.2 Use models of communication with individuals and small groups in a learning environment.
When working with individuals and small groups, it is possible for teachers to identify learner’s needs and aim to adapt their lesson content, resources and vocabulary to meet these needs. Ensuring that all learners can access information, through clear speech, size 12-14 comic sans font, visual aids, can reduce the risk of any barriers.
It is also essential for teachers to promote discussions. This allows for learners to negotiate learning strategies, highlight any problematic areas as well as develop their own communication skills.
To ensure that communication is effective, teachers can interpret facial expression, body language and noise levels. To gain a better insight in to the effectiveness of communication, teachers can ask open ended questions, recap on explanations, and gather feedback.
2.1 Review...