The eighth characteristic of a synergetic classroom is good human relations. By that Charles means
how students treat each other and how teacher and students interact, specifically (109):
- How we attract another person’s attention
- How we give them individual attention
- How we can create the impression that we are nice people with whom to associate and work
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When students engage in positive human relations, they “increase the potential for effective collaboration with others, which makes more likely the release of energy that leads to classroom synergy” (119).
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Human relations skills
Charles suggests introducing and practicing human-relations skills through role-playing in class meetings and then coaching students to transfer the skills to day-to-day interactions. Specific skills that we should model and help students develop include (109-11):
- Making a good first impression
- Opening up communication
- Helping another person cooperate
- Conferring dignity by valuing and respecting others
- Building trust
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Behaviors to display
Charles outlines a set of specific behaviors that “carry our messages to others” (110-14):
- Use positive body language: Facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, posture, and proximity should correspond to our intentions.
- Send clear verbal messages: Spoken and written words should convey your intentions.
- Be aware of how words sound: Intonation, inflection, and emphasis affect meaning.
- React positively to others: Remain attentive, be tactful and express disagreement gently.
- Follow through on agreements: Excuses do not foster positive work relationships.
Behaviors to avoid
To maintain good human relations, avoid these behaviors (114-15):
- Showing disinterest in the other person
- Slighting the other person
- Putting down the other person
- Discounting the other person’s contributions
- Speaking sarcastically to or about the other person
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