Conference paper
Developing effective global communicators: Conceptualising emotional-social intelligence as a graduate attribute in a public relations program
Teaching and Learning Forum 2012: Creating an inclusive learning environment: Engagement, equity, and retention (Murdoch University, Murdoch, W.A, 02/02/2012–03/02/2012)
2012
Abstract
The professional communications industries and academia alike have long viewed 'effective interpersonal skills' as essential to the success of graduates in their first few years of employment and beyond. Often they are assumed to be the reason why so many young aspiring professionals are drawn to the bright lights of disciplines such as public relations, marketing and advertising and openly used as essential recruitment criteria for graduate jobs. However, teaching these complex life skills proves to be a challenge for tertiary educators. Identifying exactly what is means to be highly effective and then implementing appropriate strategies in curricula requires further research.
The concept of emotional intelligence (EI), in particular the model posited by Bar-On in 1997, provides a useful framework to identify those particular skills that are required for 'effective communication' as well as point to those traits that make one individual more likely to succeed in complex situations over another. This may provide guidelines for developing specific teaching strategies that engage the student in constant self and peer review from their very first learning experience thus drawing them into their life-long educational journey as communication leaders.
Drawing on the results from a recent study on the internationalisation of the public relations curriculum at Murdoch University, this presentation will analyse and discuss the relevance of EI as a useful concept for understanding and nurturing interpersonal skills such as creativity, curiosity, adaptability and empathy; all essential for success in a global community, both on and off the campus.
Details
- Title
- Developing effective global communicators: Conceptualising emotional-social intelligence as a graduate attribute in a public relations program
- Authors/Creators
- R. Desai (Author/Creator)
- Conference
- Teaching and Learning Forum 2012: Creating an inclusive learning environment: Engagement, equity, and retention (Murdoch University, Murdoch, W.A, 02/02/2012–03/02/2012)
- Identifiers
- 991005543567707891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Media, Communication and Culture
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Conference paper
Metrics
97 Record Views