Think about all that you have learned, explored, and experienced throughout this course. For example, what have you learned about the value of cultural awareness, the importance of diversity and social justice, the benefits of communication when navigating conflict, and the different ways that SNHU can support your success? Then, address the following:
1. How will you use what you have learned in this course in your life beyond the classroom? For example, how will you navigate conflict and interpersonal relationships moving forward?
2. How will you use what you have learned in this course as you continue your educational journey at SNHU? For example, think of your future courses:
a. How will you approach feedback from your peers or instructor?
b. How can you help build a sense of community and communicate with your peers in an online environment?
c. What role does communication play in navigating conflict?
3. What are some SNHU resources and services that can support you on your path to success? How can asking for help support your success?
For your response posts, address the following:
1. How do you relate to the insights, perspectives, or experiences your peer shared? What do you appreciate from your peer’s post?
2. What is one thing your peer identified that you could incorporate into your path forward as you continue your educational journey? How does this insight resonate with you?
3. What strategies or additional SNHU resources or services do you think may be helpful to your peer?
PEER 1
I think this class has really taught me the importance of truly listening and respecting others’ opinions. It’s not to say I completely disregard opinions other than my own. It’s just certain topics I have a hard time understanding how there could even be another opinion (anti-vaxxers, for example….although that is an opinion I will never waver my stance on, and I will never understand or even try to.), but I will at least be more willing to hear them out, now.
Moving forward, I plan to try and be more receptive to feedback. I mentioned at one point that accepting feedback is tough for me because I tend to take it as criticism instead of a way to help me improve in an area I may have fallen short. If I am being honest, outside of assignments, I’m not sure I would put effort into building a sense of community in the school setting. I am turning 40 this year, I have 4 children (one of whom is an adult and lives on her own, but is most assuredly no less needy than when she lived with us), and a demanding full time job that is only getting more demanding by the minute, almost literally. I just don’t have time or the drive to put energy into something like that. I can see the merit to it and the benefits of it for those who can, and for those who are searching for something like that. Communication is the key to navigating conflict. Without it, there would be no way to know where the disconnect causing the conflict is. Without know what the problem is, there is no chance of finding a solution for it.
SNHU has many online services to help assist students in achieving their academic goals. There is the library, the 24/7 online tutoring services, and even tech support. All of these things may be needed or come in handy at any given point in our academic careers. Asking for help will support your success because, as they say, closed mouths don’t get fed. You have to communicate your needs, otherwise you’ll never get the help you are looking for. This is where clear communication can go a long way.
1. What are some SNHU resources and services that can support you on your path to success? How can asking for help support your success?
PEER 2
I try and find several different things to take away from each class. I had an amazing supervisor one year when we were doing professional development classes for work. I was feeling overwhelmed and trying to memorize and retain all the information and she sat me down and told me that instead of trying to remember everything and use all the information I should focus on key points and things that stick with me that can help me and my profession grow into something new and better. So each week I try and find at least one thing that I can use outside of the classroom.
I feel like I have a decent grasp on recognizing feedback for what it is. Many times feedback can mean fixing grammar or building on something I’ve said and that just tells me I need to slow down and focus a little more on my assignments. It’s all in the way we look at the feedback and what it’s really trying to tell us either from instructors or peers.
I think looking at each class as a new “community” I’m involved in helps me build relationships with everyone and feel more comfortable giving and receiving feedback. Even if the classes are temporary we are all kind of a collective group for a while and it’s easier to see it that way because it creates less anxiety about meeting new people so to speak.
I think by having this viewpoint I am better equipt to communicate in a more personally appropriate way and I find I’m less inclined to take offense whenever someone disagrees with something I’ve said. Also knowing that we can’t always know the tone in which a message or post is written and automatically being upset and not making an effort to show empathy will not benefit either person.
I have access to several resources and services such as 24/7 Drop-in tutoring, the Shapiro Library, and the ability to talk with my advisors and instructors whenever I feel I’m struggling. Asking for help and not letting myself succumb to panic or anxiety will make a huge difference in how successful I will be with my courses. This also helps me remember that I don’t have to be afraid to ask for help outside of class and I will have more positive interactions. You have more people cheering you on than you have critics.
