Due Tomorrow 9/02/2020 By 7:00 PM Pacific USA Time

Due Tomorrow 9/02/2020 by 7:00 pm pacific USA time. Written Discussion: Critical Listening/Careful Listening While viewing the following two videos, listen carefully for-- What do the videos have in common? In what ways do they differ? What drew your attention or what did you find valuable? Why do you know what you know?

In this assignment, I am tasked with watching two videos and engaging in a reflective discussion about critical listening and careful listening. The core prompt asks me to analyze what the videos have in common, how they differ, what insights I gained, and how this learning influences my listening approach. The task emphasizes a deep, thoughtful contemplation of the material, encouraging me to explore not only the content but also my emotional and intellectual response to it.

Specifically, I need to craft three paragraphs: The first should describe what I noticed about the videos’ similarities and differences. This might include thematic elements, the style of presentation, or the types of communication techniques used. The second paragraph should explore why certain parts of the videos resonated with me, what I found valuable or surprising, and how my prior knowledge shapes my understanding. The third paragraph should reflect on how these insights will impact my future listening habits, addressing specific strategies I plan to implement and how this experience contributes to my philosophy of listening. The discussion must be informal, personal, and reflective, demonstrating genuine engagement with the material and thoughtful self-assessment.

Paper For Above instruction

Both videos center around the theme of effective listening, emphasizing the importance of attentive and intentional engagement when communicating with others. While I did notice that they shared similar messages about the need for active listening—such as eliminating distractions, maintaining eye contact, and being fully present—each video approached these principles from slightly different angles. For example, one video focused heavily on the practical techniques and behaviors that foster good listening, providing tips on how to avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions. The other was more philosophical, exploring the emotional and psychological rewards of sincere listening, highlighting how genuine attention can deepen relationships and foster mutual understanding. Despite these differences, both videos underscored how critical listening is to effective communication and personal growth, reinforcing the idea that listening is an active skill requiring deliberate effort rather than passive hearing.

What drew my attention most was the emphasis on mindfulness and self-awareness in listening practices. I found the idea that listening involves more than just hearing words—it's about understanding the speaker’s intentions, emotions, and underlying messages—particularly compelling. This insight has helped me recognize times when I have listened passively or prejudiced my understanding due to distractions or preconceived notions. The videos supported my belief that compassionate, careful listening not only improves interpersonal connections but also enhances my ability to learn and adapt. I felt confident in these lessons because they aligned with my personal experiences and prior efforts to be more attentive in conversations. The examples provided in the videos—such as signaling genuine interest through body language and asking clarifying questions—are practical strategies I can incorporate into daily interactions to become a more thoughtful listener.

Moving forward, I intend to apply these insights by consciously practicing mindful listening during class discussions, meetings, and personal conversations. I plan to minimize interruptions, maintain eye contact, and ask open-ended questions to ensure I truly understand the speaker’s message. Recognizing the value of emotional engagement has also motivated me to develop greater patience and empathy, which are essential for building trust and mutual respect. This experience has reinforced my belief that listening is a skill that can be cultivated through intentional effort and self-awareness. My evolving philosophy of listening now emphasizes active engagement, emotional intelligence, and the continuous practice of reflection. By implementing these strategies, I aspire to become a more attentive and empathetic communicator, enriching my relationships and fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment in both personal and professional contexts.

References

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• Rogers, C. R., & Farson, R. E. (1957). Active Listening. Industrial Relations Center, University of Minnesota.
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