Exercise #9
Assertive Communication in Action
Authors: Prof. Karmen Erjavec and Sabina Krsnik, MBA
30–35 minutes
Description
Practice recognizing assertive communication by selecting the correct response from each pair of statements.
Methodological Guide
Objectives
Train healthcare professionals in assertive communication techniques for effective multicultural communication and collaboration.
Expected Outcomes
Participants can identify assertive communication patterns and understand why they are preferred in professional healthcare settings.
Exercise Procedure
Students are presented with 7 pairs of responses to communication scenarios. For each pair, they select the response that best demonstrates assertive communication. After completing all pairs, they receive feedback.
Mode of Implementation
Individual or group exercise; can be used as a warm-up or follow-up activity in training sessions.
Role of the Teacher
The teacher introduces the concept of assertive communication, facilitates discussion of each scenario, and debriefs after the exercise.
Theoretical Basis
Assertive communication is a style in which individuals clearly express their thoughts, feelings, and needs in a direct, honest, and respectful manner. It is contrasted with passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive styles.
Practical Application
Healthcare professionals practice identifying assertive responses in clinical and multicultural scenarios, building skills for real-world application.
Knowledge Transfer
Skills developed in this exercise transfer directly to clinical communication, team interactions, and multicultural patient care.
Reinforcement & Reflection
After completing the exercise, participants reflect on why assertive communication is more effective than passive or aggressive alternatives.
Required Resources
Device with internet access; exercise platform.
Assessment / Evaluation
Correct identification of all 7 assertive responses.
Practical Tips
Encourage students to justify their choices before revealing the answers to deepen understanding.
Discussion Topics
What makes a response assertive rather than passive or aggressive? How does cultural background affect communication style? How can assertive communication improve patient outcomes?
Further Resources
Materials on non-violent communication, assertiveness training, and multicultural communication in healthcare.
Additional Remarks
This exercise is part of a series on effective multicultural communication and collaboration practices.