Listening with Sensitivity and Skill (Online)

Overview

This dynamic and interactive course explores the art and practice of listening with skill, sensitivity, and intention. Participants will build on their existing knowledge and experience to identify common stressors associated with listening roles and discover practical approaches to managing them effectively. Combining current theory with experiential learning, the course equips students with a wider range of tools and techniques to enhance their listening practice, strengthen resilience, and foster a sustainable approach to supporting others. By the end of the course, participants will feel better equipped to listen with confidence, compassion, and longevity in both professional and personal contexts.

Programme

During the course, learners will explore:-

• Their current knowledge, skills, and strengths as listeners
• A range of core listening skills and practical techniques to enhance their practice
• Strategies for self-care, resilience, and sustaining wellbeing in listening roles
• The role of boundaries in creating safe, ethical, and effective listening relationships
• How thoughtful and purposeful questions can support deeper understanding and meaningful conversations

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:  

1. Understand what Listening with Skill and Sensitivity is and how to practically apply the elements of it in day to day situations.
2. Experience committed listening practice and be able to evaluate personal learnings.
3. Recognise the importance of looking after ourselves as listeners using the tools of mindfulness and compassion.
4. Understand how listening well can be applied to everyday situations through formal practice and through micro applications of the teachings in moment to moment scenarios.

Assessments

1. Test. 20 questions testing students of their understanding of core concepts. (20%)
2. Journal Summary. A summary of journaling of listening practices through the course. (20%)
3. A reflective essay of up to 1500 words. (60%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

• Internet access
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.