You know that African American students don't necessarily like to hold eye contact with you while you
have one-on-one discussions with them. What strategy might you use to help them feel more comfortable
speaking with and listening to you?
A. Practice using direct eye contact more and more with them.
B. Assume that they're not listening and implement a punishment.
C. Engage in a nonspeaking activity, like a board game of checkers, so that they have something to look at while they talk and
listen.
D. Engage in only nonverbal forms of communication, such as writing notes and emails or sending text messages.
my answer is c.
Yes, I like C.
Your answer of C. Engaging in a nonspeaking activity, like a board game of checkers, is a good strategy to help African American students feel more comfortable speaking with and listening to you. Let me explain why this is a good strategy.
It is important to understand that cultural norms and communication styles can vary among different groups of people. Some African American individuals may have grown up in households or communities where direct eye contact is not always encouraged or considered appropriate in certain situations. This could be influenced by cultural values, personal experiences, or communication styles within their community.
By engaging in a nonspeaking activity like a board game of checkers, you can create a more relaxed and comfortable environment for communication. This takes away the pressure of direct eye contact and allows the students to focus on the conversation without feeling uncomfortable or judged. They can focus their attention on the game and still actively participate in the discussion.
It is important to note that while engaging in a nonspeaking activity can be helpful in creating a comfortable atmosphere, it is also essential to be respectful, understanding, and non-judgmental towards all students regardless of their cultural background. Building trust and rapport through active listening, empathy, and positive reinforcement can also contribute to making students feel comfortable and willing to engage in discussions.