Constructive Communication

Course introduction

Constructive Communication (CC) or Nonviolent Communication (NVC) is a communication method that focuses on self-empathy, empathy and authentic self-expression. CC theory supposes all behaviour stems from attempts to meet universal human needs. By identifying the needs and the feelings that surround these needs, mutual understanding and effective strategies for various life events can be achieved.

This course aims to provide tools for communicating in challenging situations and addressing emotional trigger points. In addition, the aim of this module is to develop the understanding of self-empathy and empathy to provide the tools for empowering clients as well as self-development. Conflict resolution and basic mediation skills will also be included in the course.

The module progresses from the basics of CC to deeper practices through self-reflection, role-play, dialogue and various constructive communication exercises.

The learning objectives are to
- use empathetic interaction to empower multicultural clients
- engage empathetically with self and others
- approach clients on a needs and values basis
- engage in challenging communication situations

The course is implemented through contact lessons, reading material and self-reflection in a learning diary. A Canvas learning environment is used to support the implementation, but it is important to take part in teaching and guidance on campus according to schedule. You will receive individual feedback for assignments from the teacher.

Timetable

This is a communications course that has active participatory exercises in the classroom, therefore compulsory attendance is expected (80%). In practice, this means 1-2 lessons can be missed. If there are multiple absences, a medical certificate needs to be provided. If the attendance criterion is not met, then the course will need be repeated.

Below is the timetable.

21.03.2023 12.30–15.45

05.04.2023 09.00–11.45

14.04.2023 12.30–15.45

19.04.2023 09.00–11.45

27.04.2023 09.00–11.45

04.05.2023 09.00–11.45

12.05.2023 09.00–11.45

17.05.2023 09.00–11.45

25.05.2023 09.00–11.45

Content

During the course you will learn to

• use empathetic interaction for empowerment
• practice constructive communication with self and others
• engage in challenging communication situations

Teaching methods

• The course is implemented through contact lessons, reading material and self-reflection in a learning diary.
• A Canvas learning environment is used to support the implementation, but it is important to take part in teaching and guidance on campus according to schedule.
• You will receive individual feedback for assignments from the teacher.

Student workload

This is a five credits course that means 135 student working hours.

Further information

Students must be present in the first contact session or notify their teacher in charge if they cannot attend. If they fail to notify the teacher of their absence in the first contact session, their enrollment will be rejected. Another student in the queue may be enrolled in the study unit in the place of the absent student.

This is a communications course that has active participatory exercises in the classroom, therefore compulsory attendance is expected (80%). In practice, this means 1-2 lessons can be missed. If there are multiple absences, a medical certificate needs to be provided. If the attendance criterion is not met, then the course will need be repeated.

Learning material

The course book is Rosenberg, M. B. 2003. Nonviolent communication: A language of life. 2nd ed. Encinitas, CA: PuddleDancer. and in the same book in Finnish Rosenberg, M. B. & Hartikainen, T. 2019. Rakentava ja myötäelävä vuorovaikutus: Nonviolent communication NVC. 4. uudistettu painos. Helsinki: Viisas Elämä. All other materials are available in Canvas.

Evaluation

Evaluation scale is pass or fail.