A Comparison of Experiential and Observational Approaches for Enhancing the Interpersonal Communication Skills of Speech-Language Pathology Students

Abstract

The effects of two short-term interpersonal skills training approaches on the verbal behavior of student speech-language pathologists were evaluated during peer interviews. Students who had participated in an experiential program in which they practiced specific verbal skills used significantly more verbal behaviors though to facilitate a helping relationship than did students whose training had consisted of observing and analyzing these verbal skills in clinical interactions. Comparisons with results of previous research suggest that length of training may be a crucial variable as students appear to need considerable time and practice to master the complex skills necessary for interpersonal effectiveness.