Introduction
Listening is defined by the International Listening Association as the process of receiving and constructing meaning from verbal or non verbal messages, and then offering a response (Cheesebro, O’Connor, & Rios, 2010). This implies that to offer accurate responses in various situations including during conflict resolution, one must be able to receive the information accurately through effective listening in order to draw meaning and respond to the parties in question appropriately (Shermerhon, Hunt, & Osborn, 2004). It is through effective listening to a party that one is able to grasp the intended meaning and offer a relevant response. Effective listening skills are one of the main determinants of the progress of teaching, informing, and conflict resolution. However, various factors need to be put in place to ensure that listening enhances the quality of communication among the parties involved. It requires effective coordination between the brain and the ear as well as proper concentration by the parties involved. This study presents listening strategies employed in effective conflict resolution.
Listening Process
The starting point is the absorption of information through the ear which is the transmitting device to the brain as indicated below.
Source: Cheesebro, T., O’Connor, L., & Rios, F. (2010).
For listening to occur, hearing must first take place. While individuals may not have much control on hearing, listening requires deliberate efforts. After hearing, individuals must endeavor to grasp the message. This will be achieved by focusing on such a message physically and mentally. Physically, one needs to position himself or herself in a manner that encourages alertness while at the same time assuring the speaker that the listening party is paying attention, giving the other party the encouragement to continue speaking (Miller, 2009). Taking the case of conflict resolution, the impartial third party needs to listen attentively to both...