December 3-9 Discussion #3

The concept that can use a bit more discussion is the models of interpersonal communication. I struggled with this initially because it was a foreign concept to me and it is presented in a very abstract way in the book. I understood it after reading the explanation and the blogs but when I first tried to comprehend I had a very hard time. The core concepts that are presented in the first chapters of the book are the basic foundation chapters, but are packed with tons of information that is not always easy to follow. I really enjoyed having the instructor’s blog that explained the chapters each week in detail. It helped me connect with a lot of these abstract subjects that I could not figure out on my own. It really helped when I had to post my discussion and complete the exams. Overall that was really the only chapter that I struggled during the semester.

December 3-9 Discussion #2

My favorite thing about class was blogging. I have never had a class that involves blogging and I found it very interesting.  It was nice being able to learn about others in the class. Each person had different experiences through their friendships and relationships that I was able to learn from. I really liked the timeline that we had to do all of the assignments, it was very manageable and I felt like I had ample time for everything. My least favorite part was the 12 hour limit for posting, although I understand why that rule is in place. It allows you to be engaged throughout the entire week of class. It was a struggle with work and having very little time but I managed to make it work. I think this class was great and liked the way it was structured all around. I learned a lot from this course and enjoyed it the entire semester. 

December 3-9 Discussion #1

I have learned the importance of communication in all forms; verbal and nonverbal. I have also leanred about the importance of active listening and different styles of love. In my last paper I wrote about committed romantic relationships, which I focused an immense amount of time on. I focused on trust, commitment, and managing conflict. There is an amazing quote in the chapter of trust that states “Trust is where knowledge ends”(Wood ch.12) Although it is short, it has a great message. Trust is the ability to not know every single thing that your partner is doing and still trust they are acting on the side of goodness. Commitment is different from love because it is a choice that is made to be with someone, love you can’t always control. There were many steps and suggestions in managing conflict that I think are very helpful. In all, I have learned a lot about myself and how to communicate with others in order to create fulfilling relationships.