Interpretive, Interpersonal, and Presentational Modes of Communication

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Exploring Culture

Throughout my time in this class there were a plethora of things that helped me gain a better understanding of cultural perspectives. Some examples being through the platform “TalkAbroad” where I had a couple of conversations with native Spanish speakers in other countries. Additionally, the textbook material often had information about different cultural practices. Lastly, through discussion board assignments I was able to learn about different cultural practices as well such as food, education, and different social topics.

Before taking this course, I had some knowledge of Hispanic culture and the beauty and value in the culture but after taking this course and utilizing these activities I have learned so much more. Specifically, my misconceptions were challenged. I originally was under the impression that South America, Spain and other Spanish speaking regions were very traditional and not very accepting of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. After doing the activities in the textbook I learned that some of this is true but there are also very accepting spaces in Hispanic culture!

Engaging in Communities

Engaging in your local and global community is extremely important to cultivating connections with the people around you. It can offer stability, friendship, and even a sense of belonging. Additionally, its important to learn about different backgrounds, cultures, and personalities. Ways to become part of your community include joining a city or town council, reading the news, and reaching out to neighbors. Ways to get involved with global communities include signing up to be a penpal and traveling if you’re able! That is part of why I moved to VA for college from Vermont so I could meet new people and live in different communities!

Interpersonal Communication

All of these forms of communication were excellent. I found the discussion boards to be great ways to communicate and incorporate some words I might not have learned at this level. TalkAbroad is an excellent program I found out about through this class. I was able to connect with two women from two different countries. Their names are Julia and Morellia! I thought it was super great to connect with these two women and have a conversation. Although basic, I enjoyed our conversations. I would find the most difficult part of having these conversations was not being able to say some of the things I wanted to and being hung up on what I was trying to say. Going into the second one I was a little bit less nervous because I knew what to expect. However, I found the second one harder because I was getting flustered due to not understanding and getting stuck. Next time, I would remember that this is a learning opportunity not a test.

Presentational Speaking

During this semester I had a couple of times where I was engaging in presentational speaking. One example is through the conversations with my professor. Additionally, I was on my Sororities council so I would present our weekly minutes. Lastly, I had a couple of job interviews where I was able to use these skills. Through this I learned that I am good at talking about where I can grow but sometimes have a hard time bragging about myself (this is more pertaining to job interviews). I also learned that I thoroughly enjoy being prepared and feel unhinged and stressed when I am not. Next time I might give myself more of a pep talk to build my confidence.

Presentational Writing

I did a lot of writing this semester. For this class I did discussion boards where I felt my writing was consistent throughout. However, for my Capstone final project I did a lot of research and reflection to make sure I am educated on the subject we chose. Above you will see an outline of different sources as well as the first draft of the research portion I did.

Interpretive Listening

For this class I had to do several assignments both through the textbook and during different assignments where I had to learn to understand Spanish better. This might not be super exciting for some but it is wicked exciting for me. I have always struggled learning languages and being able to understand was great! Each textbook assignment has helped me to better understand, usually there is a listening and answering portion in each one and I could feel it getting easier and easier.

Interpretive Reading

As a criminal justice and sociology major I read a lot. For this class I did more listening rather than reading in order to learn. But I had to do a lot of reading for my classes in my major as well as personal reading. There were many challenges that I faced especially because I struggle as a student with ADHD. Reading is sometimes hard to focus on. Ways I overcome this are to play white noise while i’m reading. I also re-read and do a lot of highlighting. I grow each time I read because I tend to learn new words and grow my knowledge through the material.