DEFINITION
Communication skills can be defined as the sharing of meaning through the exchange of information and common understanding, and is a key to all other skills. A two-way verbal, nonverbal or written exchange between two or more individuals, communication is an interpersonal skill firmly grounded in social relationships. Strong communication skills involve using various modalities and choosing the best method for message.
AIMS
- In school and at the workplace, the primary goal is to achieve good communication in order to carry out the appointed tasks. Nowadays, stress shifts from individual work to group work and in language acquisition, for example, standard examinations evaluate first and foremost the conveyance of ideas and the ability of making yourself understood rather than grammar or spelling accuracy.
- Effective communication is the starting point for the development of new ideas and for information exchange processes; in the field of sustainability, the dissemination of concepts, methods, and innovative initiatives is achieved mainly through collaborative work, which involves communication.
- Communication activities are vital for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Communication is achieved within a multitude of environments, through formal and non-formal education, or digital devices; the more people one meets and interacts with, the more they develop an outside-the-box thinking.
CONTENTS OUTLINES
- Written communication: It is the ability to convey information effectively and clearly through
written text. It involves using appropriate language, tone, and style to communicate the intended message, while also taking into account the audience and purpose of the communication. - Oral communication: This competency helps to build trust and reliability. It is more effective than an email or a text message. For important and sensitive conversations, you can rely on oral communication to get your point across, avoid misunderstandings and minimize confusion. (…) It is built on transparency, understanding and trust. It can boost morale, encourage improved performance and promote teamwork.
- Non-verbal and visual communication: It can be used to inform, persuade, or entertain an audience. Good visual communication makes use of images, typography, and layout to create an effective and persuasive design. It can be used to convey information, to create or strengthen relationships, or to motivate people to take action. It is an effective way to reach people who may not be able to understand written or oral communication.
- Active listening: It is the process by which an individual secures information from another individual or group. It involves paying attention to the conversation, not interrupting, and taking the time to understand what the speaker is discussing. Active listeners avoid interrupting at all costs, summarize and repeat back what they have heard, and observe body language to give them an extra level of understanding. The ‘active’ element involves taking steps to draw out details that might not otherwise be shared.
- Contextual communication: It is defined as the bidirectional transfer of information between two parties, where both sides are aware of the relational, environmental, and cultural context of the exchange. Simply put, it means that all entities involved know what the conversation is about.
- COMMUNICATION COMPETENCIES
EXERCISES AND ROLE PLAY
The Doughnut Technique – microlesson based on sharing of ideas
The reciprocal teaching-learning method
Realization of projects that address environmental problems
VIDEO
GAMES
Developing communication skills through the use of technology
ARTICLES
Sustainability: «Circular Economy Communication: A Framework and Case Study«.
Sustainability: «The Importance of Effective Communication in Circular Economy Business Models«.
BOOKS
Mulligan, C., Bakshi, B. R.: «Circular Economy: Towards a Sustainable Future».
Kantz C., Schneider F.: «Communicating Sustainability for the Green Economy».
Lacy P., Rutqvist, J.: «The Circular Economy Handbook: Realizing the Circular Advantage».
Jönsson, C., Broman G.: «Circular Business: Collaborate and Circulate».
Alliance G.»Communicating Circular Economy: A Practical Guide».
WEB SITES
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. the Ellen MacArthur Foundation promotes the Circular Economy and offers resources and publications related to communication in the context of the Circular Economy.
World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). The WBCSD is a global organization that works with businesses to promote sustainability and the circular economy. Their website offers reports and related communication tools.
Circulate News. A news and analysis website focused on the circular economy. Provides articles and resources on communication in the field of circular economy.
