Student Engagement 2: Purposeful Communication

Purposeful Communication is a habit of mind characterized by the construction of meaning through interactions with texts and people and the creation of new messages.¹

In this section we explore the habit of mind of Purposeful Communication in cultivating the competencies of Oral/Written Communication and Digital Technology.

Communication

Articulate thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral forms to persons inside and outside of the organization. The individual has public speaking skills; is able to express ideas to others; and can write/edit memos, letters, and complex technical reports clearly and effectively.²

Digital Technology

Leverage existing digital technologies ethically and efficiently to solve problems, complete tasks, and accomplish goals. The individual demonstrates effective adaptability to new and emerging technologies.³

Image Source: Doyle, A. (2021, March 13). These are the communication skills employers look for in employees. The Balance Careers. Retrieved February 3, 2022, from https://www.thebalancecareers.com/communication-skills-list-2063779

As human beings, we have been communicating with those around us since before we had the language to speak in coherent words. For this reason, we sometimes have the tendency to take communication for granted, as it is deeply ingrained into our consciousness and automatic responses to life. However, communication is foundational to the ways in which we are able to express ourselves and relate to others.

Make no mistake, language is not our only means of communication. Think about the last time someone walked into the room and you instantly knew they were struggling, even without them speaking. In contrast, think about the last time someone walked into the room and lit it up with their positive attitude, again without uttering a word. We are energetic beings, and we communicate through non-verbal communication in addition to the words we speak. Our body language, our facial expressions, and the energy that we bring into a space are all ways we communicate to those around us.

Additionally, technology plays an important role as to how we connect and communicate in our modern day society. Though we have all grown accustomed to using apps and technological platforms, these are only tools. We must learn how to reach others in authentic and genuine ways regardless of the mode of communication we use.

Communication Platforms

As a student leader, you are expected to familiarize yourself with our campus-wide communication platforms, Engage and 25 Live. Engage allows students, faculty, staff, and community partners to view upcoming programs and events. It also provides student leaders with the capability to manage member rosters, submit event forms, and find important allocation policies. The 25 Live platform is our space reservation tool, which also highlights events for all members of campus.

When putting on an event on campus, the event must be logged on BOTH 25 Live and Engage! Catering orders should be submitted 2+ weeks prior to the event!

Wrap-Up

Purposeful communication is a reciprocal process that is about giving and receiving. Listening and understanding is just as important as talking and contributing. Practicing empathetic listening cultivates trust and safety in communication. As Margaret Wheatly explains in her book, Turning to One Another, “…we can change the world if we start listening to one another again” (p. 3).**

All Forms of Communication Should Be:

Clear
Sincere
Authentic
Honest
Continuous

How can you bring a renewed sense of awareness to all the ways you communicate? How can you purposefully communicate as you navigate through your co-curricular experiences? How will you change campus and our community through your communication?

Please view this brief video while you reflect on these questions.

Please continue by clicking on “Next” below.