01+Listening

= ﻿Listening =


 * Text Support & Personal Experience:**
 * Lambert states, "True understanding is a rare commodity when we are busy rehearsing and imparting our own opinions....[;but,] the purpose of dialogue is understanding: when we truly listen and build on each other's ideas, we construct meaning and knowledge together" (2003, p. 23). I think that to be a good leader one must be able to listen openly without an agenda always in mind. In education where decisions often run high stakes, we all tend to have strong opinions and intentions. It can sometimes be hard to put our guards down enough to really consider other options, which is why a leader who can model this and further facilitate an open dialogue is so valuable. ~Kate


 * I cited this for problem solving, but I believe it overlaps for listening as well. Lambert states, "Being listened to carefully and listening carefully to others has an almost magical effect on what we say: issues and problems are held at arm's length and examined from all sides, instead of being subjected to quick opinions and ready solutions" (2003, p.34). Listening does require being objective and hearing not just the words a person is using, but listening to their facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice as well. This does take care and patience. Another I felt might be relevant is, "teachers see themselves as part of a broader profession and are listened to with an intensity and respect that may not exist in their schools; hearing and seeing how other teachers thinks and interact allow them to fine tune their perceptions of their own roles as teachers" (2003, p.36). - Monica


 * Lambert states, "The purpose of dialogue is understanding when we truly listen and build on each other's ideas, we construct meaning and knowledge together." (2003, p.23) I just realized Kate quoted the same...but I feel that it is such an important passage and link to understanding the important of listening. In any situation, it is important to hear all sides before making a final decision. Many times, a person is so set in their ways it is hard for them to hear another point of view...and many times that person may be "listening" but not processing what is actually being said. Being present in a conversation doesn't mean just to be there physically, but to fully be present in participation. And listening is just as important as giving ideas/opinions.... A leader is one who is able to have a good balance between the two, and help others gain this skill as well. Listening also leads into decision-making and facilitating! -Kelly


 * Besides the texts you have mentioned above, in Figure 4.2, Lambert also states that listening to each other, and particularly to new members of the staff. (p. 37) She has listed it as one of the Benchmarks in the development of teacher leadership. Often times the new teachers are hesitate to speak up. Therefore, a good leader requires becoming more skillful in asking inquiry questions and modeling respectful listening to all voices.~ Jingfang


 * We all agreed that is the number one; I didn't have any additional citations to add, but felt I needed to "vote in" that I am in total agreement that listening is a number one leadership skill.~Laura