It’s true. Teamwork can elevate a project and produce successful results. But it’s also common to hear – or feel – an exasperated groan at the mention of group projects. They can be laborious and frustrating. “I love exploring these team or workplace interactions – both good and bad,” said Dr. Stephen Spates, assistant professor of communication at Missouri State … [Read more...] about Working through differences
Dr. Carrisa Hoelscher, director of graduate communication studies at Missouri State University, sets her target on competent communication to help others improve their skills. This includes finding ways to improve both effectiveness and appropriateness. Being effective and appropriate can feel like they are at odds sometimes. This creates tension — Hoelscher’s research … [Read more...] about Aim for competent communication in collaboration
These questions drive Dr. Jake Simmons' work. He researches the experiences of students of color on college campuses. His goal is to improve diversity and inclusion programs. “It's important to create safe spaces to share experiences," Simmons said. "It's important to students and to the fabric of a university." As the graduate studies director in the communication … [Read more...] about Making space for everyone
Missouri State professor Dr. Charlene Berquist hopes to offer victims, offenders and other at-risk youths the opportunity to build the skills needed to pull themselves out of a justice system that may swallow them up. “We’re loud and we’re boisterous. When there’s a conflict, we yell and deal with it, and then we hug and make up.” — Dr. Charlene Berquist Her passion for this … [Read more...] about Communication professor turns childhood curiosity into passion for conflict resolution
As a corporate trainer and executive coach for a variety of organizations, Dr. Shawn Wahl, head of the department of communication at Missouri State University, trained individuals how to listen, communicate their needs, persuade co-workers and bosses, motivate teams and navigate through difficult situations with customers and clients. With this knowledge, he’s written five … [Read more...] about Communicating across an ever changing landscape