What is communication (and what isn’t it)?
The P21 framework emphasizes the effective use of oral, written, and nonverbal communication skills for multiple purposes (e.g., to inform, instruct, motivate, persuade, and share ideas). It also focuses on effective listening, using technology to communicate, and being able to evaluate the effectiveness of communication efforts—all within diverse contexts (adapted from P21). Note that working in partners is a great way to collaborate or build shared understanding but a critical part of communication is sharing with an authentic audience.
Example strategies that use technology to support communication in the classroom:
- Host a TED-style conference or showcases for your students to present original ideas on a topic of interest to them to an authentic, external audience. Record and post the videos to a youtube stream.
- Provide opportunities to listen and ask questions through backchannel tools like Today’s Meet or even Twitter.
- Have your students publish their work through blogs, by creating websites, and by building other online resources that are shared with authentic audiences.
- For other ideas see the resources below.
