Communication and Cultural Diversity

 

Making Assumptions About Communication

 Many things can be assumed when watching a person's body language and expressions. This assignment has revealed to me that these forms of communication are not always straightforward and depend on the receiver to determine what the message is intended to mean but could be misinformed.

 The show that I decided to watch was "The Office" season 1 episode 1. Because I had never seen the show prior to this assignment, I did not learn the characters names until watching the episode the second time as I watched unmuted. For the sake of making sense lol, I will utilize their names. I was immediately introduced to 9 people that I assumed were the main characters of the show. I believe this was correct for all but 1 character as I watched and additional 2 episodes. 

 I assumed that 7 of the characters were co-workers but as the show progressed I thought that owner of the practice was Naomi as she was the one that seemed to show Addison (the presumed new doctor)  around the facility and the one who seemed to address the other characters. I also felt that Naomi and Sam had been intimate partners as he felt comfortable to go into her office and their behaviors were that of 2 people arguing but he later called her when he needed her. Addison was added to this practice as I saw her seemingly introduced to Cooper by shaking hands and awkwardly hug Violet as they didn't know whether to kiss cheeks or just hug. She then seemed to verbally greet Pete whose expression looked surprised and who stopped Cooper from going in to hug Addison and gave me the assumption that Addison and Pete were once a couple as well as the kiss they shared at the beginning of the episode. One of the other aforementioned characters was Dale who seemed to be a receptionist or assistant as he answered phones and seemed to be told what to do in a medical situation by Addison. Another was the chief of staff at the hospital that the practice members work alongside when they can not fully help a patient. Her expressions seemed as if she did not value the other practitioners or did not agree with what they had to say or may have been bothered by their interferences. Lastly, was the opening scene of Addison and another doctor that seemed to have a verbal altercation. I thought that they were having an argument as there was head shaking and finger pointing. The gentleman also seemed to be saying his words aggressively. There was a pregnant patient with a man that I assumed was her father. As she was going into labor he seemed frustrated or upset as he paced and also seemed to speak with aggression. He did not behave as a new father that was exited for his child to be born. The girl also looked a lot younger than him so I may have stereotyped the relationship here.

 That was a lot but this is what I learned as I watched the show and listened to the words: The doctor that Addison was arguing with was actually not wanting to lose one of his best doctors and trying to get her to stay at his hospital working for him. He admired her and respected her as a doctor. The practioners Addison joined were all part owners of the practice but Naomi owned the largest percentage. Dale was not only the receptionist/assistant but a vital part of the team that was used when needed by the practioners as he was a student studying midwifery. Naomi and Sam were ex spouses and Addison and Pete had only kissed but never dated. Addison and Sam were possible friends but knew each other because she went to school with Naomi. The chief of staff behavior after watching a second time seemed to be more "matter of fact" with the words, she does her job and defends her actions.

 This assignment was insightful and really made me think about what I assume someone is saying without words and realize that I could be and have been wrong with my assumptions. Some of my assumptions here were incorrect and showed me my "aha moment" that behaviors and words together are better understood for myself. If I were watching a show that I frequently watch, I believe that I would have had more correct assumptions because I would know more about the characters, how they interact with each other as well as their relationships with one another. Even with this being stated I could misinterpret their actions.             

 

The Personal Side of Bias, Prejudice, and Oppression

   One hope that I have when I think about working with children and families from diverse backgrounds is to have effective communication and have meaningful relationships with families that are formed from respect. Getting to know the families, their expectations and how they communicate best can help me to educate their children effectively and make transitions more smooth.

   One goal that I have for the field of early childhood as it pertains to the issues of diversity, equity and social justice is to provide reoccurring free training to educators in programs that makes us aware of current issues, alerts us to biases and informs us on methods to use that ensure we create inviting environments for all families.  

   This course on perspectives on diversity and equity was the beginning of an eye opening experience and a lifestyle change. I would like to thank Professor McCarty and my colleagues for the lessons, discussions and aiding in my growth. i wish you all the best on your continued journey!