What is active listening?

### Active Listening

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully focusing, understanding, responding to, and remembering what the speaker is saying. It goes beyond just hearing the words; it requires the listener to engage with the speaker by showing empathy, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback. The goal of active listening is to foster mutual understanding and respect in conversations, making the speaker feel acknowledged and valued.

### Claim
A claim is a statement or assertion that something is true or factual, often used in arguments or discussions. It is a position or belief that one is trying to prove or support with evidence. In persuasive writing or debates, claims are typically backed up by reasoning, data, examples, or statistics.

### Counterclaim
A counterclaim is a statement that opposes or contradicts a claim made by someone else. It presents an alternative viewpoint or argument, often challenging the validity or strength of the original claim. Counterclaims are essential in discussions and debates, as they help to explore different perspectives, foster critical thinking, and strengthen arguments by addressing potential objections.

What do we call the facts, documentation, or testimony used to strengthen a claim?

The facts, documentation, or testimony used to strengthen a claim are referred to as **evidence**. Evidence supports claims by providing data, examples, or authoritative opinions that help persuade the audience of the validity or truth of the assertion being made. In various contexts, such as academic writing, debates, or legal cases, the quality and credibility of the evidence can significantly influence the strength of the claim.

What do verbal clues include?

Verbal clues refer to the spoken words and expressions used in communication that can indicate the speaker's intentions, emotions, or perspectives. These clues can enhance understanding and interpretation in conversations. Some common types of verbal clues include:

1. **Tone of Voice**: The emotional quality of the speaker's voice—whether it is warm, sarcastic, serious, excited, etc.—can convey meaning beyond the actual words.

2. **Volume**: The loudness or softness of speech can indicate the speaker's confidence, urgency, or emotional state.

3. **Pace**: The speed at which someone speaks can reveal their mood or level of comfort. For example, rapid speech may indicate excitement or nervousness, while slow speech may suggest thoughtfulness or hesitance.

4. **Articulation and Clarity**: How clearly someone articulates their words can affect understanding and may signal their level of engagement or confidence.

5. **Choice of Words**: The specific words and phrases used can provide insight into the speaker's perspective, feelings, and intentions. For example, using certain jargon can indicate familiarity with a topic.

6. **Repetitions or Hesitations**: Words or phrases that are repeated or filled pauses (like "um," "uh," or "you know") can signal uncertainty or a need for more time to think.

7. **Emphasis**: The stress placed on specific words can highlight what is most important to the speaker or change the meaning of a sentence.

8. **Expressions of Emotion**: Words that convey feelings, such as excitement, frustration, or disappointment, provide verbal clues about the speaker’s emotional state.

Overall, paying attention to these verbal clues can help listeners better understand the messages being communicated beyond just the literal meanings of the words.

What do non-verbal cues include?

Non-verbal cues are forms of communication that do not involve spoken or written words. They can convey a wide range of emotions, attitudes, and messages and often complement or contradict verbal communication. Here are some key types of non-verbal cues:

1. **Body Language**: This includes gestures, posture, and overall body positioning. For example, crossed arms may indicate defensiveness, while an open stance can suggest openness or receptivity.

2. **Facial Expressions**: The face is highly expressive and can convey emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, surprise, or confusion. Expressions can often indicate feelings that words may not fully capture.

3. **Eye Contact**: The degree and type of eye contact can communicate interest, attention, confidence, or intimacy. Avoiding eye contact may signal discomfort, disinterest, or dishonesty.

4. **Gestures**: Hand movements and other gestures can emphasize points or convey specific meanings. For example, thumbs up can indicate approval, while a wave can be a greeting.

5. **Proximity and Personal Space**: The physical distance between individuals during interaction can indicate relationships and comfort levels. Invading someone’s personal space can be perceived as aggressive, while maintaining distance may suggest formality.

6. **Touch**: Different forms of touch (e.g., handshake, pat on the back, hug) can convey various meanings based on context, culture, and relationship dynamics.

7. **Appearance**: How a person dresses and presents themselves can send messages about their personality, social status, or professionalism.

8. **Posture**: The way one holds their body (e.g., slumped, upright, leaning forward) can indicate confidence, openness, anxiety, or disinterest.

9. **Tone and Volume**: While primarily classified as verbal, the way a person uses tone and volume (including silence) can also fall into non-verbal communication, as it often conveys emotions or attitudes.

10. **Physical Environment**: The setting or context in which communication takes place can also provide cues. For example, a formal setting may suggest professionalism, while a casual environment might imply relaxation.

Overall, non-verbal cues play a crucial role in communication, often enhancing or contradicting the verbal message, and are essential for accurately interpreting the intentions and feelings of others.

Discussions are about _______________ instead of _______________. Discussion participants will hopefully reach a _______________.

Discussions are about **sharing ideas and perspectives** instead of **debating who is right or wrong**. Discussion participants will hopefully reach a **mutual understanding or consensus**.

Collegial discussions are usually _______________ and _______________.

Collegial discussions are usually **collaborative** and **respectful**.