EPP2601
Assignment 1 Semester 2 2024
Unique #:236271
Due Date: 30 August 2024
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
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, QUESTION 1
INTRODUCTION
Listening is a fundamental skill in communication that extends beyond simply
hearing sounds; it involves understanding, analyzing, evaluating, and responding
to messages (O’Hair, Friedrich & Dixon, 2010). The distinction between listening
and hearing is crucial: while hearing is a passive, involuntary process, listening is
active and requires focused attention. Effective listening is vital in various contexts,
including the workplace, where it can significantly enhance cooperation and
relationships. In the context of law enforcement, such as the 2021 July unrest in
South Africa, listening skills become even more critical. This essay will explore the
advantages and disadvantages of listening skills in the context of the July unrest
saga, focusing on the roles of the police officers involved.
ADVANTAGES OF EFFECTIVE LISTENING SKILLS
Enhancing Situational Awareness
One of the primary advantages of effective listening skills in the context of the 2021
July unrest is the enhancement of situational awareness. Police officers, such as
Captain Sondlo, needed to be acutely aware of the evolving situation during the
unrest. Effective listening allowed the captain to gather and interpret information
quickly, ensuring that he understood the risks involved and could make informed
decisions. By listening carefully to the reports from Constables Leuw and Maseko,
Captain Sondlo could assess their situation accurately and provide the necessary
instructions for their safety. This situational awareness is crucial in high-stress
environments, where the ability to listen and process information rapidly can mean
the difference between life and death.
Facilitating Communication and Cooperation
Effective listening skills also facilitate communication and cooperation among team
members. In the case study, the ability of the police officers to listen to each other
was essential for coordinating their actions during the unrest. When Constables
Leuw and Maseko found themselves in a dangerous situation, their ability to
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