Deep Listening: Introduction
The purpose of this online module is to help participants become more aware of the multi-faceted nature of listening and to encourage deeper applications of listening as it relates to communicating with others. The module is equally designed as a reflective process for individuals to notice how they respond to sound, word, music and even silence. By practicing the principles of listening in our personal and professional lives, we exercise the muscles of attentiveness, demonstrate a quality of respect toward a speaker, cultivate an ability to appreciate perspectives different than our own, learn how to solve conflicts mindfully, court an appreciation for non-rational prompts such as inspiration, foster collaborative skills with others, and become cognizant of communication habits that don’t serve us or others.
To gain the most benefit from this course, approach it as an interactive study. You can move through the components at your own tempo but maybe make a vow to yourself that you will devote time and energy each day to deepening your listening skills.
Components:
- Twelve Audio Recordings: Each consideration lasts between five and six minutes in length. If possible, find a quiet place to take in the content of each session. Following your listening session, you may want to have a writing journal to respond to a few prompts and capture your reflections on the theme.
- Reading Materials: In addition to the audio recordings, the course includes some written materials that convey some of the key principles of deep listening. Again, feel free to journal your impressions or possible applications of these handouts.
- Reading Resources: A list of contemporary books on the subject of listening will enable participants to dive into the theme and enrich one’s understanding of the challenges and gifts of mindful listening.
Note: The audio recordings do not have any captions so the learners can focus on deep listening. However, the script of each consideration is provided for accessibility purpose and for those who may need it.
