Improving college professors' communication skills inside the classroom: An exploratory study
by Van Allan, James, M.A., FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY, 2011, 87 pages; 1496225

Abstract:

This thesis examines how college professors can improve their communication skills inside the classroom by testing pedagogical issues identified in previous scholarship against current teaching practices. This thesis addresses four main areas related to classroom communication skills that reflect how to build a classroom into a community of equality, open dialogue, and deep learning. The importance of classroom communities and of professors developing engaging deliveries to create compelling oral performances is described as well as issues of active listening and various models and techniques to help facilitate communication better in the classroom. A qualitative study analyzing written interviews completed by 19 college professors in Florida is conducted. Interview responses are then compared to pedagogical issues identified in previous literature to determine if there are similarities or gaps in current research. The interview determined that an interactive classroom with a professor who is consciously aware of their communication skills can help foster deeper learning with students. This research can help to develop best teaching practices for college professors.

 
AdviserBecky Mulvaney
SchoolFLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY
SourceMAI/ 49-06, p. , Jul 2011
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsPedagogy; Communication; Higher education
Publication Number1496225
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