Mastering Communication

Overview

The goal of this workshop is to improve communication through empathy, which is the ability to understand and value others’ perspectives. Effective communication starts with self-awareness and self-compassion. Recognizing your own value helps you engage empathetically with others. Each interaction provides a chance for growth, even with difficult individuals.

To enhance communication, participants are encouraged to practice Empathetic Awareness through four steps: PAUSE, REFLECT, ADJUST, and ACT. This is especially important during sensitive discussions or conflicts. Maintaining empathy can de-escalate tensions and prevent confusion and hurt feelings. Utilizing “I” and “XYZ” statements can also improve dialogue by reducing defensiveness and focusing on personal feelings rather than assigning blame. For example, saying “I felt overwhelmed” instead of “You didn’t care” can lead to more constructive conversations.

The workshop also tackles barriers to effective communication, which include prejudices, previous experiences, heightened emotions, and language or cultural differences. Being mindful of these obstacles allows for better listening and responding. Active listening involves focusing on both verbal and non-verbal cues, avoiding interruptions, and summarizing the speaker’s message. Ultimately, respectful and intentional communication fosters mutual understanding and connection, and it is a skill that can be developed through daily practice. Opportunities for practicing empathy arise frequently, even in challenging interactions, allowing for personal growth and improved relationships.

Curriculum

Instructor

Dr. Heather Browne

Dr. Browne is the Campus Director of the International School in Shorouk. She has been working with NIS since 2014 and became a member of the senior leadership team in 2015. Dr. Browne holds a PhD in International Public Policy from Northeastern University in Boston, and an M.A. in Applied Linguistics/TEFL from the American University in Cairo. She teaches courses in English, Global Studies, Political Science and Critical Thinking. Her research interests lie in Education Policy, Human Development and Linguistics, and she can usually be found reading about one of these topics or learning a new language. Dr. Browne is originally from Massachusetts, but has lived in Cairo for the last three decades.