Instructional Communication Competence: Lessons Learned from Award-Winning Teachers

Abstract

Responding to calls for more holistic views on instructional communication, this study used interpretive methods to examine award-winning instructor's communicative practices to assess and to refine a definition of instructional communication competence. After observing and interviewing recipients of the Central States Communication Association Outstanding New Teacher Award, we describe how these award-winning teachers (a) understand the ebb and flow of the classroom, (b) use a wide repertoire of communication skills, (c) create relationships with students, and (d) effectively manage their classroom climates.

Keywords:

• Award-winning Teachers
• Classroom Climate
• Communication Competence
• Communication Skills
• Student Relationships

This project was supported by the Central States Communication Association Federation Prize. This manuscript was accepted by the previous editor, Professor Jim L. Query.

Notes

This manuscripts was accepted by the previous editor, Professor Jim L. Query.