My learning situation involved a group activity in a Transformative Learning course. The members of the group could not come to a consensuses regarding the direction we should take for a project.
Techniques and tools I used to build empathy:
1. Natural inquisitiveness and child-like curiosity.
I used this technique to break the ice among the members of the group. It was beneficial due to breaking down the barriers, finding commonality and enhancing the overall experience.
2. Active listening.
While it's a given when building empathy, I used this tool to listen hard enough to grasp the emotional state and need. The benefit is realizing the motivation behind another persons point of view or way of thinking.
3. Being vulnerable.
I used this tool by allowing myself to be open and authentic --- even if my ideas were judged or rejected in the end. It was beneficial to the extent that others' felt free to share their ideas too.
Rhonda, I really liked the being vulnerable tool. I think being vulnerable and authentic at the same time opens us up to experiences that we would not otherwise have. I liked that you recognized that this can sometimes be uncomfortable and it is a growth process.
ReplyDeleteHi Rhonda,
ReplyDeleteI agree. Being truly empathetic requires establishing some form of vulnerability or vulnerable intimacy with the environment and participants. This requires a great deal of self-reflection on our part. Thanks for sharing.