I love the simulations in class. Consciously, I feel like I'm actually applying all the things we learn in class. Learn to step back and observe. Take the time to assess your environment. Understand people's interactions. Be objective, not subjective. Follow the D.I.E. model (be descriptive, not interpreting or evaluating).
One thing I anticipate about these simulations is the process of cracking a code. I was relieved that I ended up in the Bafa world since that already in itself was difficult to decipher. But then, when it was time to learn about the other culture...
"So? What are they like?"
"They're...oddly...jovial. Crazy!"
Serious? It couldn't be THAT bad. One by one, as each pair of Bafa's visited the other world, the description of that world became more perplexing. Soon, I was itching to check out what could possibly be so different about this culture. Hahaha. I was in for the same shock.
The first few words that came up in my mind was "eerie" and "surreal" and...was everyone high? o_0; As we started interacting with the people in the group, I started noticing cliques. Separate guy groups. Separate girl groups. It came to a point where I was exasperated and a bit annoyed. I stood there, watching everyone inquire about their grandfathers, dads, sons, whatever male descendents exist...until Lynette welcomed me into the group. Whoa. Revelation.
I'd like to say that this simulation is an exaggeration to the real world. But lately, I've noticed that as I have been meeting new people, I feel like I'm being put back in the simulations. These things seem to be very similar to real life scenarios. A new set of people means a new set of rules to follow -- new codes to crack, new languages to decipher, hand motions, eye contact, what to say, what not to say... Real life almost seems more confusing than these simulations.
As of lately, I try not to evaluate why people act the way they are now. Instead, I consciously try to observe first and objectively understand people's reactions. And when I get into the "in" group, it's like I've completed a new simulation. These interactive class activities definitely have been very beneficial to my communication techniques so far...
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