Final answer:
Active listening involves demonstrating understanding of both the literal and emotional content of what the speaker is saying without making assumptions or interruptions. The correct answer to the student's question is option (b), which emphasizes feedback and understanding over premature advice or conclusions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Active listening strategies are integral to effective communication. They involve paying attention to the speaker's words, emotions, and body language without making judgments or interruptions. This approach demonstrates understanding and empathy, which can be especially important in conflict resolution and fostering positive working relationships. One of the keys to active listening is to provide feedback that shows you have not only heard but also understood both the literal and emotional content of what has been said.
The correct answer to the student's question is that active listening strategies allow one to demonstrate what one has heard and feedback literal or emotional contents. This involves acknowledging the speaker's feelings, paraphrasing their words to confirm understanding, and using appropriate non-verbal communication such as nodding or maintaining eye contact. Hence, the option that most closely aligns with the principles of active listening is (b), which is about reflecting back on what the speaker is sharing without jumping to conclusions or overshadowing their message with your own perspective.