Exploring different ways people signal their understanding during a conversation.
Thinking about how to ask for clarification if you are not following or understanding a conversation.
Considering how miscommunications can occur and what might help when they do.
Joey answers the door to a salesman. The salesman asks Joey whether he ever nods along in a conversation without following what is being said. The scene continues with Joey reflecting on the times he nodded along without understanding the conversation. Joey nods along as the salesman speaks, apparently without following the conversation.
• What did you notice about how Joey was responding to the salesman?
• How do you show someone you are following what they are saying?
• What is your preferred way of letting someone know you need more information?
• How might someone let another person know they need more time to process what is being said?
• What might happen when one person thinks the other person has understood but they have not?
• What are some different ways people can check in with each other during a conversation?
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
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