Communicate Effectively
I think the biggest shock to my system going into college is that I was terrified communicating with people I didn't know. Communication is such an essential skill that I wasn't even aware that I lacked, and I wish I had been forced into those uncomfortable situations before I had graduated high school. - ACS Alumni, Class of 2018
ACS Graduates will communicate effectively.
- listens to others to generate understanding
- unafraid and empowered to ask questions
- know how to engage in thoughtful communication even in the absence of technology
- presents information in a variety of contexts using digital and non-digital tools
- uses technology and contemporary digital tools to explore and exchange ideas that are productive and respectful
- aware of how body language and nonverbal communication reinforces what is being conveyed
We heard from so many in ACS, including students themselves, that students are, generally, missing the art of communication. Whether the lack of discipline has been brought on by increased technology use or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, virtually everyone surveyed through our listening sessions said we must prioritize the development of interpersonal communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, with and without the use of technology.