EDCI52150

[close] Listen/read and understand before you talk. Learn to “hear” and comprehend before you draw conclusions or evaluate what others are saying. Be mindful of cross talk, or interrupting someone who has the floor.

Probe and question as a means of gaining a fuller measure of understanding. Before you ask questions that criticize or negate, ask questions that ensure you grasp what the other person is saying. Some examples: “If I understand you correctly, you are saying that…” “Would you help me gain a better understanding of what you are saying by explaining a little more what you mentioned about…”

Do what you can to make the discussion atmosphere safe for different perspectives and be considerate about controversy over different perspectives. Present your own positions gently and tentatively, and listen to the positions of others in the same way.