Unit 301.3 be able to overcome barriers to communication
Outcome 3
1. Explain how people from different backgrounds may use and/or interpret communication methods in different ways
2. Identify barriers to effective communication
3. Demonstrate ways to overcome barriers to communication
4. Demonstrate strategies that can be used to clarify misunderstandings
5. Explain how to access extra support or service to enable individuals to communicate effectively
People from different backgrounds, communities and cultures may use or interpret communication methods in different ways; this is because the way in which we communicate is often influenced by the community or culture in which we are brought up. Families usually have the greatest influence on how we communicate as they have shared experiences and knowledge, for example a family group will understand each other’s emotions and will know what makes you laugh or cry but to an outsider they will have no idea and will need to spend time getting to know individuals to gain that knowledge. Use of vocabulary and language in the family home may differ greatly from what is expecting in an different setting, for example the use of swear words may be accepted at home whereas in school this would be unacceptable.
Our ethnic origin will may also influence communication methods, in some cultures communication is still predominantly oral as many adults are unable to read or write. Age may also influence communication methods, many children and young people will communicate with each other via text messages and will use text slang to abbreviate words which may be difficult for the older generation to understand. Also the use of technology and social media is widely used to communication, however the older generation may feel overwhelmed and confused by new technology so prefer to use telephones and letters to communicate.
When working with children, young people and families from different backgrounds and...