James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

WS2510 - Interpersonal Skills

Subject Description

This subject is an introduction to the skills and framework of interpersonal practice and communication used in human services work. The subject introduces students to fundamental skills used to work with people and communities. These include the skills of reflective, empathic listening, exploring issues of concern and working in partnership towards change. Interpersonal skills are seen as part of professional, accountable practice and as such, influenced by the knowledge base of human services practice. In this subject, students are required to become familiar with a critical practice approach, and to reflect on how this practice approach influences the way listening occurs, questions are asked, and interpersonal communication is used as a tool for practice.

Learning Outcomes

• work independently and/or in teams to creatively, collaboratively and effectively use audio-visual and online technologies to demonstrate appropriate interpersonal skills
• demonstrate skills in the use of self and attending behaviours including empathy, warmth, respect, openness and genuineness
• demonstrate skills in using a range of micro-skills of interpersonal communication and helping, including engaging and building rapport, reflective listening, identifying and reflecting feeling, questioning, paraphrasing
• articulate importance of race, ethnicity, culture on the development of empathic relationships in social welfare practice and the ability to demonstrate sensitivity to these issues
• apply theoretical lens(es) in the use of interpersonal skills
• utilise knowledge of Indigenous frameworks of helping to extend the responsiveness and sensitivity of social welfare interventions

Subject Assessment

• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration 1 - (10%) - Individual
• Extended interview skills demonstration and reflection on interview  students conduct a full-length online interview and submit a reflective piece. Interviews are recorded - (50%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Practical assessment/practical skills demonstration 2 - (40%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Assumed Knowledge:  To undertake this subject, students must have successfully completed 12 credit points (four subjects) of level 1 study at tertiary level

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  WS2019

Availabilities