Author Question: What qualities make an effective family-staff conference? Teachers should assess their knowledge, ... (Read 109 times)

washai · **on:** Sep 11, 2018

What qualities make an effective family-staff conference? Teachers should assess their knowledge, skills, and attitudes following a conference with a family. Describe at least 10 characteristics that a teacher might include in such a self-assessment. How will you use this information when planning conferences?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Consider a teachers use of (a) nonverbal communication, (b) giving and receiving criticism, and (c) conflict resolution. Describe ways in which she can be most effective in all three areas.

What will be an ideal response?

Animal_Goddess · **Reply #1 on:** Sep 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Qualities:
Consider family schedules.
Provide a quiet, calm, confidential location.
Consider needed timeframe.
Some conferences are appropriate for childrens participation.
Provide information in advance to help families plan their questions, etc.; invite parent to bring someone along.
Inform parents about who will be in attendance.
Teachers should be prepared.

Characteristics to be included in self-assessment:
Setting
level of preparation
greeting
nonverbal communication and body language
effective verbal communication
positive attitudes
Active listening
Giving and receiving criticism
conflict resolution procedures
goal-setting
use of developmentally appropriate expectations
lack of bias
use of resources
closure

Answer to Question 2

Nonverbal communication: Personal space, gestures and posture, touching, facial expression, eye contact, vocal cues, positive and negative affect, responsiveness
Giving and receiving criticism: Rehearse what you want to say and how you will say it; use I-messages; criticize only specific behavior or situation; use compliment sandwiches; be constructive; when criticism is accurate, admit your mistake, discuss what will be done differently in the future, stay calm, use I-messages, be assertive but not aggressive.
Conflict resolution: Define the problem, let all share their viewpoints, reflect each participants concern, review relevant policy or procedure, assure all that they have been heard and explain the follow-up, make changes or collect additional information until problem can be resolved.