The following scenario will enhance your ability to understand and apply empathy in a conversation. As you watch the first video, recall what you’ve learned about perspective-taking and empathic concern, and then complete the Your Turn prompts. Finally, watch the Take Two! video to explore how this scenario could have gone differently.
1. The Problem
Paul is assigned to lead a group project for class. One team member, Alex, has missed two of the first three meetings. Paul decides to meet one-on-one with Alex to discuss this.
2. Your Turn
Observations. Reflect on how Paul and Alex communicated in this scenario by answering the following questions:
- Which character do you identify with more in this situation? How would you feel if you were in their situation?
- Where were the missed opportunities to practice competent communication?
Discussion. In class or with a partner, share your thoughts about the interaction between Paul and Alex and work to answer the following question:
- Can you understand both perspectives?
- What could Alex and Paul have done differently?
3. Take Two!
What if things had gone differently? Watch the Take Two! video to see one possible example of how the conversation might have gone if Alex and/or Paul had communicated differently. As you watch the video, consider where the dialog reflects empathy and perspective-taking. After watching the video, answer the questions below:
- Did Alex and/or Paul take advantage of opportunities that they missed in the first scenario? Which ones?
- Did their different actions result in a more productive encounter? Please explain.