Experiential leaning is effective

Is experiential learning the most effective way to gain knowledge?

While reading the “Experimental Learning” chapter from the book “Joining Together group theory and group skills.” I asked myself if experiential learning is the most effective way to gain knowledge. My personal opinion is that experiential learning is one of the best ways for me to retain information. I have noticed that my brain maintains and understands information in more detail when I have performed or experienced certain events with regards to such information. The book elaborates how failure and success can shape someone’s theories based on their experience, which I agree. I do believe that academic learning is also an effective process to acquire information, because it allows acquiring knowledge faster than experiential learning, but the retention of such knowledge can be lost if not used or experienced.

Sources

Johnson, David. Joining Together Group Theory and Group Skills. 10th. ed. New Jersey, NY: Pearson/Merrill, 2009. 45-65. Print.

Persuasion is not manipulation

What is the difference between manipulation and persuasion?

I have always thought that effective leaders have the capability persuade others to work towards as specific goal. However, according to de Janasz (2009) there is a fine line between persuasion and manipulation (p. 158). Fortunately, de Janasz provided some guidelines to determine whether certain persuasion efforts are rather manipulating. Such guideline boil down town to the concept of inspiring people based on two main concepts: Lead by example based on good ethics, and make sure that the every individual knows that his/her effort and contribution will benefit everyone.

Being able to detect and self monitor misuse of motivation factors to avoid losing credibility and being perceived as manipulating is rather critical as a leader. The ability to become persuasive allows for great accomplishments not only at work but also in personal life. As a parent, child, spouse and so forth we need to work together to accomplish goals and objectives. Therefore, it is imperative being able to inspire others in order to accomplish collective goals.

Sources

Janasz, Suzanne. Interpersonal Skills in Organizations. 3rd. ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin, 2009. 150-161. Print.