Effective Communication – Level 8

Students need to be given opportunities to apply their communication skills - within group settings and practice learning opportunities.

The Children's Charter and the Framework for Standards (Scottish Executive, both 2004) highlight the importance of listening to children. Standard 3 of the Framework for Standards states that "Professionals ensure that children are listened to and respected".

In preparation for practice learning opportunities: Students need to demonstrate knowledge and skills in communicating where English is not the first language or where the primary form of communication is non- verbal. For example, students should be aware of their legal responsibilities to access interpreter services and know how to do this and their responsibility to use relevant specialist services to enable them to listen and communicate with children who use alternative forms of communication (for example signing).

Students need to be able to show that they can build on their understanding of how children communicate. For example, when a child displays proximity seeking behaviour such as pulling on one's sleeve, they are trying to attract attention and have their needs met. Students need to demonstrate that they are observing children's behaviour and starting to consider what this non-verbal communication might tell them about children's experiences.

Students will have the opportunity to practise conveying complex information in a group setting. For example, alongside students from other disciplines within the HEI (e.g. health/education) they could role play a case conference. This includes written and verbal presentation of information.