Sebastian Niles: Problem Solver

This week in class, Lauren and Dylan led a discussion on interpersonal communication skills. During the discussion, we were asked to identify our communication strengths and weaknesses. In addition, we had to do a role play about a situation in which we used interpersonal communication and advice giving. Overall, it seemed that advice giving is useful in some situations, but most of the time, us peer mentors should use interpersonal communication. As a whole, I think Dylan and Lauren did a great job teaching, and I believe they will do a great job next fall as well.

In addition, we had to read chapter four in Students Helping Students which was about problem solving. I especially liked how this flowed smoothly from the previous chapter. One of the first steps in solving a problem is to assess the situation to find out how to handle the problem. One of the ways to do this is to ask questions. The questions need to be open-ended and be structured in that they make the student elaborate. You also need to ask follow up questions and summarize what the student has said in order to let them know that you are following them. Finally, you have to formulate a hypothesis on what can be done about the problem. Another technique that can be used to figure out how to solve a problem is to use resources on a campus or in a professional setting to find a solution. For example, there is a test on campus that students can take that will allow them to better understand what majors they will like. Yet another technique is self-reporting. This technique requires students to take notes and analyze their progress with the help of a peer leader. I like this technique the most because it requires the individual to evaluate their behavior and come up with solutions that will be fitting for them.

In order to solve problems, you must come up with goals. Goals must be clear and define what the outcome must be, they must be within the realm of possibility, and they should be measurable. In addition to thinking about goals, one must also understand factors that allow for success and factors that prevent success and overcome them. I believe this information will be helpful next semester if and when students in my recitation section come to me for help. This will also be helpful in that I can employ this with myself as well in order to accomplish major goals in my life.

Finally, a person must take on a positive attitude when coming up with goals and putting them into action. They must understand that opposition is likely, but that they should continue with their goals. It is also important to show recognition when someone completes their goal. Looking back, I realize that I have received a lot of recognition for completing important activities in my life, and I realize that the awareness I received influenced me to do more.