Final answer:
Active listening involves providing nonverbal cues such as nodding and maintaining eye contact. It is important to avoid interrupting, focus on the speaker's emotions as well as their words, and use respectful body language and facial expressions. This enhances communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Step-by-step explanation:
Active listening techniques are crucial in interactions with students and are helpful in building rapport and understanding. The correct active listening technique involves providing nonverbal cues, such as nodding and maintaining eye contact, to show engagement and understanding of the speaker's message. It is important not to interrupt the speaker to clarify points, as this can disrupt the flow of communication and indicate a lack of listening. Furthermore, one should avoid focusing solely on formulating a response while the speaker is talking, as this detracts from truly hearing and understanding what is being said. Ignoring the speaker's emotions is also not advisable; effective communication requires paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, which convey emotional states and nuances. Active listening also includes using body language effectively, being aware of one's facial expressions, and monitoring the speaker's nonverbal cues. Employing these techniques fosters an environment where speakers feel heard and respected, thus facilitating a more productive and empathetic conversation. Active listeners also choose their words carefully, stay calm, and ask open-ended questions to better understand the speaker's perspective. Additionally, conflict resolution skills are optimized when listeners paraphrase what they have heard to avoid misunderstandings and validate the speaker's point of view.