Choose 1 of the following resources and read it before responding to the discussion questions:
“Beyond the Binary: Practical Advice for Using Gender Pronouns” from the University Library
Bias-Free Language page on the APA Style website
Socioeconomic Status page on the APA Style website
Intersectionality page on the APA Style website
Part 2: Response
Provide a minimum 175-word response to the following questions using information from the resource you selected in Part 1:
What questions might you ask yourself about your audience as you approach a writing task for work?
How are your communication relationships at home similar to or different from those at work?
When you communicate with others through writing, how do you show respect or active listening?
What is 1 detail from the resource you selected in Part 1 that you might apply to writing for work, school, or home? Explain your response.
Identify (maybe even quote specifically) something you learned from this week's learning activities and Chapter readings.
Full Answer Section
Communication at Home vs. Work:
Communication at home can be more informal and relaxed. Humor, slang, and personal anecdotes are often used. At work, communication leans towards professionalism, clarity, and objectivity. However, building rapport through active listening and respectful interactions is important in both settings.
Respectful Writing: Active Listening on Paper
When writing, I can demonstrate respect and active listening by:
- Using inclusive language: Avoiding biased language and using gender-neutral terms when appropriate (as recommended by the APA Style guidelines).
- Acknowledging different perspectives: Presenting balanced arguments and considering potential counterpoints demonstrates respect for diverse viewpoints.
- Responding to feedback: Openness to feedback shows a willingness to improve communication and reflects active listening.
Applying Bias-Free Language:
One detail from the APA Style's "Bias-Free Language" page I'll apply is the recommendation to avoid using disability-first language. Instead of saying "a person with Down syndrome," I'll use person-first language: "a person who has Down syndrome." This emphasizes the personhood over the disability.
Chapter Readings and Intersectionality:
This week's readings on intersectionality highlighted how social identities like race, gender, and socioeconomic status can overlap and create unique experiences. For example, a woman of color might face gender discrimination differently than a white woman. Understanding intersectionality allows for more nuanced communication that considers the interplay of various identities.
By considering these aspects of communication, I can strive to be a more inclusive, respectful, and effective communicator in all areas of my life.
Sample Answer
Considering Your Audience:
Having read the APA Style website's "Bias-Free Language" page, I'm now more mindful of the questions I ask myself when approaching a writing task for work:
- Who is my audience? Understanding my audience's background, knowledge level, and potential biases helps me tailor my language and ensure clarity.
- What is the purpose of my writing? Am I informing, persuading, or entertaining? This influences the tone and level of formality I adopt.
- What are the cultural backgrounds of my readers? Being mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoiding stereotypes is crucial for respectful communication.