Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Acknowledgements Education Development Center (EDC) would like to thank the staff of the USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program, Philippines local team, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority’s (TESDA) National Institute for Technical Education and Skills Development (NITESD) through its Curriculum and Training Aids Division (CTADD), whose invaluable insights guided the adaptation of this curriculum. Opportunity 2.0 aims to provide opportunities for second-chance education for vulnerable out-of-school youth (OSY) by collaboratively working with TESDA in strengthening its technical education and training systems to develop, deliver and monitor workforce readiness and technical-vocational training programs that will prepare large numbers of out-of-school youth to transition to further education and training, immediate jobs and self-employment opportunities. In line with this objective, Opportunity 2.0 has developed the Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills which are appropriate for self-directed learning or modular learning delivery. The Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills is an adaptation of EDC’s globally recognized Work Ready Now. The curriculum addresses the TESDA Amended Competency Standards for Basic Competencies Integrating 21st Century Skills which were promulgated on July 9, 2019. © 2020 Education Development Center, Inc. This content may not be produced without the permission of Education Development Center or the United States Agency for International Development. This curriculum is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of Education Development Center, Inc. and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. EDC 43 Foundry Avenue Waltham, MA 02453 Contact: youth-intl@edc.org Phone: 617-969-7100 Education Development Center (EDC) is a global nonprofit that advances lasting solutions to improve education, promote health, and expand economic opportunity. Since 1958, we have been a leader in designing, implementing, and evaluating powerful and innovative programs in more than 80 countries around the world. Boston | Chicago | New York | Washington, D.C. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 2 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Table of Contents Introduction 4 Summary of Learning Outcomes 10 Module Overview 10 Written Assignments 11 Skills Demonstration 11 Session 1: Obtain and Convey Workplace Information 11 Activity 1: Introductory Activity & Pre-Module Learner’s Reflection 14 Activity 2: Communication Sources 20 Activity 3: Getting the Right Information in the Right Way 27 Activity 4: Conveying Messages and Ideas in the Workplace 34 Activity 5: Communication Protocols and Procedures: Lines of Communication and Communication Storage 43 Session 2: Perform Duties Following Workplace Instructions 53 Activity 6: Interpreting and Following Routine Written Instructions 54 Activity 7: Interpreting and Implementing Instructions Following a Meeting 61 Activity 8: Seeking Clarification and Giving Feedback on Instructions Received 64 Session 3: Completing Relevant Work-Related Documents 73 Activity 9: Identifying Relevant Workplace Documents and Forms 74 Activity 10: Writing a Business Letter 80 Activity 11: Guidelines in Completing Workplace Documents and Forms 85 Session 4: Review & Assessment Activity 12: Module 1 Review and Application and Post-Module Learner’s Reflection Activity 13: End-of-Module Assessment Key to Correction Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines 95 95 100 104 Page 3 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Introduction Goals of the Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills Welcome to the Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills! These modules will help prepare you to transition to further education and training as well as equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully find work or start your own business. The curriculum addresses the TESDA Competencies for 21st Century Skills. Upon completion of the NC 2 modules, you will be able to: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Communicate workplace information Follow workplace instructions Fulfill your role in a team and help your team reach its goals Solve and address general workplace problems Make life decisions that help you reach your career goals Be innovative and find opportunities to do things better and implement ideas for change Gather, assess and present information Understand and follow safety and health compliance requirements and procedures Follow effective sustainability practices and use resources efficiently Practice entrepreneurial best practices and make cost effective choices Organization and Learning Approach of the Modules There are nine Work Readiness modules on 21st Century Skills, all aligned with TESDA’s Competency Standards for Basic Competencies’ Thematic Areas, Units of Competencies, Elements and Performance Criteria. The main modules and topics of the curriculum include: 1. Participating in Workplace Communication: obtaining and conveying workplace information; performing duties following workplace instructions; completing relevant work-related documents 2. Working in a Team Environment: describing your team’s role and scope; 2. identifying your role and responsibility within a team; working as a team member 3. Solving and Addressing General Workplace Problems: identifying routing problems; looking for solutions to routine problems; recommending solutions to routine problems Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 4 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 4. Career Development and Life Decisions: managing your emotions; developing a reflective practice; boosting your self-confidence; regulating your responses 5. Contributing to Workplace Innovation: identifying opportunities to do things better; discussing and developing ideas with others; integrating ideas for change in the workplace 6. Presenting Relevant Information: gathering data and information; assessing the information you gathered; recording and presenting information 7. Practicing Occupational Safety and Health Policies and Procedures: identifying occupational safety and health (OSH) compliance requirements; preparing OSH requirements for compliance; performing tasks in accordance with OSH policies and procedures 8. Exercising Efficient and Effective Sustainable Practices in the Workplace: identifying the efficiency and effectiveness of resource utilization; determining the causes of inefficiency or ineffectiveness of resource use; convey inefficient or ineffective environmental practices to others 9. Practicing Entrepreneurial Skills in the Workplace: applying and communicate entrepreneurial best practices in the workplace; implement cost-effective operations Work Exposure Activities In each module, you will do tasks that will get you out into your community, into real workplaces. You will learn by looking and talking to people. (These can be modified if there are active health and movement restrictions in place.) You will observe and learn about how businesses work and take notes about what you see. You will talk to employees and business owners or managers. This helps you to make more informed career choices and have realistic expectations about the working environment. You will be prepared for future work immersion, jobs or running your own small business. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 5 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills Self-Directed Learning Approach The Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills are meant to be engaging and interactive. Even though it is a self-directed learning approach, there are many opportunities to be learning through interacting with others, including other learners, your trainers, your family and friends and people in the community such as business owners, employers, managers and employees. Sometimes you will be reading, writing and reflecting about new topics. You will also be given opportunities to practice, apply, analyze or synthesize the content and skills you are introduced to. As you move through the modules, you will notice that they are organized in the same way. Each module starts out with the TESDA unit description and learning outcomes and an overview of activities and recommended time to complete the activities. Each module has a list of written assignments and skills demonstration box which lists the activities that will help you develop your skills. Some of these will be measured using a rubric. A module begins and ends with a learner reflection (self-assessment) which is used as a skills check. There is also a short end-ofmodule assessment (quiz) at the end of each module. You will also find key to correction at the tail end pages of each module where you can check your answers to quiz as well as appropriate responses to exercises and activities. Modules are divided into sessions which correspond to the learning outcomes. Each session contains 2 – 5 activities. At the beginning of each session, you will find a table that links the session to TESDA’s performance criteria. Each session typically has 3 or more performance criteria. Performance Criteria: 1.1 1.2 1.3 Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 6 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook This is followed by a textbox containing the key topic and learning points of the session. Key Topics and Learning Points 1. 2. 3. Then there are the main activities, including that activity name, objectives, time required and a variety of tasks for you to do. Activity X: Name Objectives: ✓ ✓ ✓ Recommended Time: 90 minutes The tasks are represented by icons. Some of the icons you will see include: Read and write Read (sort paragraphs that are not key facts) Write (Short writing tasks) Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 7 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Think or reflect (quick reflection on your own) Dialogue/talk with others Key Facts: [X.X and Name] Information to read about the topic Let’s Exercise: [Task Name] – This section is for comprehension check questions and practice tasks to ensure that you have understood concepts before moving to application. Let’s Apply: [Task Name] – This section is for application of concepts learned. You are putting the information learned into action and applying it to your own life. Think About It! This section encourages you to express your opinions to family and friends about a topic. Start a discussion with them face to face, via text, chat, or whatever means available and comfortable to you. It’s always great to share your ideas and hear more points of view. ☺ Sharing is Caring This section encourages you to share your output to family and friends. You worked hard on this so now it is time to tell others about the task you have just completed. Do it face to face, via text, chat, or whatever means available and comfortable to you. It’s always great to share your thoughts and hear feedback from people who care. ☺ Your trainer will inform you if you are to write directly in your handbook or if you are to write in a notebook. There is space to respond to questions, and each session includes a page of writing space. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 8 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Requirements There are a number of requirements that you will need to fulfill to pass each module, which corresponds to each unit of competency of the TESDA’s Competency Standards for Basic Competencies: 1. Learner Reflection at the beginning and end of each module. 2. Written Assignments: Please complete all written work in the module. Part of your skills evaluation and module completion is done through completing the written assignments outlined at the beginning of the module. Some of the assignments will be used to evaluate your skills, and each module has at least one rubric for this purpose. 3. End-of-Module Assessment. Support from TESDA Trainers A TESDA trainer will be there to support you throughout the modules. The trainer will check in with you several times a week by phone, email, WhatsApp, Facebook messenger or in person to answer any questions you have and to monitor the progress you are making with assignments and activities. They are a great resource and will be able to help you when you do not understand something or want to know more about the session. Good luck on your journey and have fun! By the time you finish with the modules, you will be well prepared to continue with your education, find a job or start your own business. Thank you! Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 9 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) A Unit of Competency under the Basic Competency on Communication “To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.”1 Anthony Robbins (author, coach, motivational speaker) (Dapat nating tandaan na iba-iba ang paraan ng tao sa pagpapakahulugan sa kanyang paligid. Gamitin natin ang kaalamang ito upang magabayan tayo tungo sa mabisang komunikasyon.) Unit Code: 400311210 Unit Descriptor: This unit covers the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements. Summary of Learning Outcomes Upon completion of the module you will be able to: ✓ L.O. 1 - Obtain and convey workplace information ✓ L.O. 2 - Perform duties following workplace instructions ✓ L.O. 3 - Complete relevant work-related documents Module Overview Activity Session 1: Obtain and convey workplace information (L.O. 1) Recommended Time 1. Introductory Activity & Pre-Module Learner’s Reflection (30-40 minutes) 2. Communication Sources 30-40 minutes 3. Getting the Right Information in the Right Way 30-50 minutes 4. Conveying Messages and ideas in the Workplace 30-50 minutes 5. Communication Protocols and Procedures: Lines of 30-40 minutes Communication and Communication Storage Session 2: Perform duties following workplace instructions (L.O. 2) 6. Interpreting and Following Routine Written Instructions 40-60 minutes 1 Arismawan, D. (n.d.). https://quotescover.com/tony-robbins-quote-about-communication. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 10 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 7. Interpreting and Implementing Instructions Following a Meeting 40-60 minutes 8. Seeking Clarification and Giving Feedback on Instructions Received Session 3: Complete relevant work-related documents (L.O. 3) 9. Identifying Relevant Workplace Documents and Forms 40-60 minutes 40-60 minutes 10. Writing a Business Letter 40-60 minutes 11. Guidelines in Completing Workplace Documents and Forms 40-60 minutes Session 4: Review & Assessment (L.O. 4) 12. Module 1 Review and Application, and Post-Module Learner’s (45-60 minutes) Reflection 13. End of Module Assessment (15-30 minutes) Total Time 6 – 9 hours Written Assignments Please complete all written work in the module. Part of your skills evaluation and module completion is done through completing the following written assignments: ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Modes of Communication & Examples of Media of Communication table (Activity 2) Let’s Exercise: Choosing a Form of Communication (Activity 4) Let’s Apply: Lines of Communication and Storage of Information (Activity 5) Let’s Exercise: Clarification on Written Instructions (Activity 8) Let’s Exercise: Roles and Responsibilities in the Workplace (Activity 8) Table on Types of Workplace Documents (Activity 9) Skills Demonstration The following activities are intended to help you develop the skill that this module is written for: ❑ Let’s Apply: Practicing Effective Ways to Receive Information (Activity 3) ❑ Let’s Apply: Practicing Effective Ways to Convey Information (Activity 4) ❑ Let’s Apply: Interpreting Instructions Presented in Pictures (Activity 6) ❑ Let’s Apply: Interpreting and Carrying Out Instructions Following a Meeting (Activity 7) ❑ Let’s Exercise: Providing Feedback to a Supervisor (Activity 8) ❑ Let’s Exercise: Writing a Business Communication (Activity 10) ❑ Let’s Apply: Writing a Business Letter (Activity 10) ❑ Let’s Apply: Completing Workplace Documents and Forms (Activity 11) ❑ Let’s Apply: Performance Task – Receiving and Responding to Instructions (Activity 12) Session 1: Obtain and Convey Workplace Information Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 11 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Performance Criteria: 1.1 Specific and relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources 1.2 1.3 Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used to gather and convey information Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas 1.4 Appropriate nonverbal communication is used 1.5 1.6 Appropriate lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues are identified and followed Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of information are used 1.7 Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely Key Topics and Learning Points 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Modes and media of communication Strategies on how to give and receive information Choosing appropriate forms of communication Workplace behaviors and attitudes and the effect on communication Lines of communication in the workplace Information storage Modes of communication take different forms: verbal, nonverbal, written or visual There are many different media of communication used at home and in the workplace, some of which involve face to face interaction, some through written means such letters, texts and record keeping forms, and other that are more visual such as posters, photographs and videos. When giving or receiving information, make sure it is accurate, based on fact (not on emotions or biased),relevant and current. When giving and receiving information, use active listening skills, speak clearly and confidently and use the appropriate nonverbal communication skills to show you are engaged. Use appropriate workplace behaviors to successfully be able to give and receive information in the workplace. When choosing an appropriate form of communication to share information, consider your audience, the purpose of the communication and what type of response you might need (ex. Immediate, written…) Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 12 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook An information management system (electronic and/or manual) enables people to capture, process, store and retrieve information. When a system is well organized, it will help a business run more efficiently and be more productive. Be sure to respect your business’ protocol and procedures regarding communication and sharing information. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 13 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Activity 1: Introductory Activity & Pre-Module Learner’s Reflection Objectives: ✓ Recall prior knowledge about communication from NC I or other experiences ✓ Assess the level of experience you have in workplace communication through taking a Learner’s Reflection Recommended Time: 30-40 minutes Welcome to Module 1 – Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II). This module will help you give and receive workplace information through appropriate channels, prepare verbal and written communication and enable you to store that information following workplace procedures. Before we proceed with this module, let us try recollecting our ideas on what we know about communication. As a start, write at least four ideas that you think about when you hear the word communication. Communication Communication is a two-way process where you need to speak and listen well and ask for clarification when necessary. It is the process of exchanging information and ideas, verbally and non-verbally, and through a variety of ways. Businesses need effective workplace communication in order to function well and succeed. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 14 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Read the quote at the beginning of the module and answer the questions. “To effectively communicate, we must realize that we are all different in the way we perceive the world and use this understanding as a guide to our communication with others.” 1. What does the quote mean and how does it apply to you? 2. Think of an example from your life when you understood something differently from the intent of the person with whom you were communicating (or when you were trying to communicate a message but it was not understood the same way). What happened? 3. What actions can you take when giving or receiving information to avoid misunderstanding? 4. This module will focus on participating in workplace communication. What do you think is the relevance between the quote and communication at work? Sharing is caring This section encourages you to share your output to family and friends. You worked hard on this so now it is time to tell others about the task you have just completed. It’s always great to share your thoughts and hear feedback from people who care ☺ Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 15 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Go ahead and share the quote with family or friends and discuss the questions. Ask them to share any experiences they have had in the workplace that are related to the meaning of the quote. Pre-Module Learner’s Reflection: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Start-of-Module Skills Check This is not a test but is a way for you to see what you already know or do not know about the topics. You will read a skill that is listed in the left column. Think about yourself and your experience. Then read the statements across the top. Check the column that best represents your situation. The results will help you and your teacher know which topics may require more time, effort and guidance. Ito ay hindi pagsusulit. Ito ay isang paraan upang malaman mo ang iyong kaalaman, kasanayan o kakayahan tungkol sa paksang ito. Basahin mo ang mga kaalaman, kasanayan o kakayahan na nakalista sa kaliwang hanay. Magbalik‐tanaw sa iyong sarili at mga karanasan. Basahin ang lahat ng mga pangungusap at i‐tsek ang sagot na naaangkop sa iyong sitwasyon. Ang iyong kasagutan ay magiging gabay mo at ng iyong guro sa pagpapalawak ng iyong kaalaman tungkol sa paksang ito. My experience Knowledge, skills and abilities Kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan 1 I don’t have any experience doing this. 2 I have very little experience doing this Wala akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Kauntingkaunti lamang ang karanasan ko sa paggawa nito 3 I have some experience doing this. 4 I have a lot of experience doing this. Mayroon akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Marami akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Identify modes and media of communication / Matukoy ang iba’t ibang paraan ng pakikipagkomunikasyon. Check that information to be given or received is accurate and reliable / Masuri kung ang impormasyong binigay o tinanggap ay totoo, tama at katiwa-tiwala. Identify ways in which to effectively receive information / Matukoy ang mga paraan ng mabisang pagtanggap ng impormasyon. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 16 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) My experience Knowledge, skills and abilities Kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan 1 I don’t have any experience doing this. 2 I have very little experience doing this Wala akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Kauntingkaunti lamang ang karanasan ko sa paggawa nito Learner’s Handbook 3 I have some experience doing this. 4 I have a lot of experience doing this. Mayroon akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Marami akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Demonstrate ways in which to effectively receive information / Maipakita ang mga paraan ng mabisang pagtanggap ng impormasyon Identify strategies to effectively convey messages and information for different situations in the workplace / Matukoy ang mga paraan upang mabisang makapagbigay ng mensahe at impormasyon sa iba’t ibang sitwasyon sa trabaho. Use workplace behaviors and attitudes that will help you effectively give and receive information / Gumamit ng mga angkop na galaw at paguugali sa trabaho upang mabisang makapagbigay at makatanggap ng impormasyon. Prepare for meetings that will help you effectively give and receive information / Makapaghanda sa pagpupulong upang mabisang makatanggap at makapagbigay ng impormasyon Describe different ways of storing communication and information / Mailarawan ang iba’t ibang paraan sa pagtatago ng impormasyon at komunikasyon Identify and respect the lines of communication in the workplace / Matukoy at marespeto ang linya ng komunikasyon sa trabaho. Apply strategies that will help you understand written and visual instructions / Makagamit ng mga estratehiya na makatutulong na intindihin ang mga pasulat at paguhit na panuto. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 17 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) My experience Knowledge, skills and abilities Kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan 1 I don’t have any experience doing this. 2 I have very little experience doing this Wala akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Kauntingkaunti lamang ang karanasan ko sa paggawa nito Learner’s Handbook 3 I have some experience doing this. 4 I have a lot of experience doing this. Mayroon akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Marami akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Practice steps to interpreting and carrying out instructions following a meeting / Masubukan ang mga hakbang upang intindihin at gawin ang panuto matapos ang pagpupulong Seek clarification when instructions are not understood / Humingi ng paglilinaw sa mga panutong hindi naintindihan Provide feedback to supervisor on instructions and tasks to be carried out / Makagbigay ng feedback sa bisor sa mga panuto at gawaing kailangang gawin Identify rights and responsibilities of employers and employees / Matukoy ang mga karapatan at tungkulin ng isang empleyado at bisor or may-ari Develop an awareness of the conditions of employment and speak with a supervisor when the conditions are not being met / Maunawaan ang mga kondisyon sa trabaho at kumausap ng bisor kung sakaling hindi natutupad ang mga ito Identify workplace documents and forms / Matukoy ang mga dokumento para sa trabaho Categorize workplace documents and forms into business-related record keeping procedural and informational documents, and forms of communication / Maigrupo ang mga dokumento ayon sa kanilang uri. Identify the main parts of a business letter / Matukoy ang iba’t ibang bahagi ng liham pangkalakal Apply good practices in writing a business letter / Magamit ang mabisang hakbang tungo sa pagsusulat ng mahusay na liham pangkalakal Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 18 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) My experience Knowledge, skills and abilities Kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan 1 I don’t have any experience doing this. 2 I have very little experience doing this Wala akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Kauntingkaunti lamang ang karanasan ko sa paggawa nito Learner’s Handbook 3 I have some experience doing this. 4 I have a lot of experience doing this. Mayroon akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Marami akong karanasan sa paggawa nito Recognize templates for some workplace documents and forms / Matukoy ang mga templates para sa ilang dokumento sa trabaho Record data and information on standard workplace forms and documents / Maisulat at maitago ang impormasyon at datos gamit ang dokumentong nakasunod sa pamantayan ng trabaho Obtain and convey workplace information / Makakuha at makapagbigay ng impormasyon mula sa trabaho Perform duties following workplace instructions / Maisagawa ang mga tungkulin alinsunod sa panuto sa trabaho Complete relevant work-related documents / Masagutan ang mga angkop na dokumentong may kinalaman sa trabaho Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 19 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Activity 2: Communication Sources Objectives: ✓ Identify modes and media of communication ✓ Name ways in which to communicate electronically ✓ Check that information to be given or received is accurate and reliable Recommended time: 20-40 minutes Read the story about a workplace situation described below. Invite 1 of your family members, friend or home companions to do a role play. Assign them to take the roles of the characters mentioned in the scenario. Scenario at Hardware Store Source: https://www.thebalancecareers.com/best-retail-jobs-4129182 A customer enters a hardware shop where Marian is working as sales associate. Marian: “Hi, Sir!” Customer: “I saw this new plumbing tool on Facebook – an adjustable pipe wrench - and it says it’s available here. In which section can I find this tool?” Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 20 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Marian, who is distracted by her phone, mumbles the directions and points to a particular section where the customer should go. The customer, however, was not able to understand the directions. He started to ask Marian for clarification but her phone rang and she quickly answered, turning away from him. Frustrated, he began walking up and down the aisles in search of the adjustable pipe wrench. Finally, he goes back to Marian and asks: Customer: “Do you have a shop directory or a store map which I could use to locate this plumbing tool?” Marian: Marian rolls her eyes, wondering why on earth the customer could not figure it out. “Let me see if we have one, yes here is it, our shop directory listing all the aisles and an accompanying map. You can go ahead that way, find this tool yourself. You may also use our interactive map in the computer available at the counter area if you want.” Upon receipt of the map, the customer went straight ahead to find the tool but in dismay, he was not able to locate it. He went to counter to look at the interactive map on the computer and it looked very different from the one he had in his hand. He became frustrated, went back to Marian and shouted at her in disappointment. Marian checked the directory/map she had given him and realized it was an obsolete one. Feeling disgusted with the service, the customer rushed out of the store while shouting about their poor service. Marian’s supervisor arrived just as the customer was shouting and leaving the store. She called Marian over to hear what happened… 1. What happened in the scenario? 2. Identify all the modes of communication used or mentioned in the scenario. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 21 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 3. What were Marian’s strengths and weaknesses in communicating with the customer? 4. If you were Marian’s supervisor, what advice would you give her regarding communicating with customers? Let’s review some basic communication skills and customer service skills learned in NC I or from your past experiences. Read the following reminders. Supplement your answers above with any additional information you find below. Basic Communication Skills and Providing Customer Service A Recap of NC I Listening: ❑ Use appropriate body language to show you are listening (eye contact, sit upright, nod head, etc.) ❑ Listen to the speaker without interrupting ❑ Avoid being distracted when listening to speaker ❑ Ask questions for clarification when you not understand something Speaking: ❑ Be clear, concise and to the point when speaking ❑ Be polite, friendly and respectful when speaking Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 22 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Learner’s Handbook Use examples to get to the point Speak with confidence but not arrogance Check the mood, attitudes and reactions of others and adjust accordingly Be aware of own body language and that of others while speaking Exceptional Customer Care: ❑ Anticipates the customer’s needs ❑ Tries to understand what the customer is thinking ❑ Meets and exceeds the customer’s highest expectations Meeting Basic Customer Needs – To make a customer feel: Welcome: ❑ Be friendly ❑ Use a positive tone of voice ❑ Greet customer ❑ Smile / lighten up ❑ Introduce yourself Understood: ❑ Listen carefully ❑ Ask open-ended questions to ❑ Repeat or rephrase to make things understand customer’s needs clearer Important: ❑ Refer to customer by name ❑ Thank customer for coming ❑ Show interest in client’s need Comfortable: ❑ Use open body language ❑ Show concern In the scenario above you might have said the modes of communication were verbal, nonverbal, written or visual. Modes of communication are general means of communicating and mediums are the specific channels or systems through which those modes of communication happen. For example, a medium of verbal communication could be a face to face meeting. A medium of visual communication could be a video. Sometimes it is hard to distinguish between the modes as they overlap. For each mode of communication, list examples of a communication medium. Examples have been given for each mode. Mode of Communication Examples of Media of Communication Verbal: through speaking (or sign language for • Face to face meeting the deaf) • • • Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 23 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook • • • • Nonverbal: information that is conveyed • Facial expression without speaking but with the body • • • • • • Written: information is received or conveyed • Email through written language • • • • • • Visual: information that is conveyed or • Photograph received through graphics • • • • • • Check your answers before continuing! Possible answers are found at the end of the module. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 24 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Technology has certainly changed the way we communicate! A lot of our communication is done electronically through computers and smart phones, for example. In the table you just completed, how many of the media are electronic? List examples of ways in which you communicate electronically at home and in the workplace. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. You may have given examples such as emails, websites, social media/networking, text and instant messaging, voicemail, webinars, videoconferencing, e-books, calendars, online chat, Skype, etc. There are many forms of electronic communication. These types of electronic information often will combine different modes of communication. For example, there might be an online brochure that includes both written text as well as graphics. A video conference may include dialogue and the presentation of infographics. A Facebook post might include a photograph and back and forth dialogue. While many of these forms takes the face to face interaction out of the communication, it is important to still apply the effective communication skills we discussed in NC I such as active listening, speaking clearly and asking questions and behaving respectfully. Reflect on the scenario again. What problem was encountered with the store directory/map? To avoid communication issues related to information, what should one do when giving or receiving information? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 25 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Read below to supplement your answers! When giving or receiving information, it is important to assess if it is: 1. Accurate: Where is the information coming from? Is it directly from the source? Is the source valid? 2. Based on fact rather than an emotional response: Determine if the information is biased in one direction. 3. Current: Is the information up to date? The most recent? 4. Relevant: Does the information you are communicating meet the needs of the person receiving it? These tips will help you whether you are communicating verbally, through written means, visually, in face to face situations or electronically.2 Sharing is caring Good work! Share the scenario and your work with family and friends. Ask what types of communication they have used in the workplace and if they have ever run into challenges such as giving or receiving information that was not accurate. What advice do they have when communicating verbally, non-verbally, through writing or visually? 2 Brecht, A. (April 13, 2020). How to Identify Reliable Information. Stevenson University Online. https://www.stevenson.edu/online/about-us/news/how-to-identify-reliable-information Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 26 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Activity 3: Getting the Right Information in the Right Way Objectives: ✓ Identify ways in which to effectively receive information ✓ Demonstrate ways in which to effectively receive information ✓ Use effective listening, speaking and nonverbal communication skills when receiving information Recommended time: 30-50 minutes The Rumor Mill Game! You can play this game in two ways. 1. Gather at least 4 people in your household. You will whisper a statement (see below) or message to one person. This person will need to whisper the same message to another person and so on. You cannot repeat the original message. Each person, to the best of their ability, must pass the original message on. Ask the last person who receives Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/s1ihVBg5tbI the message to repeat what s/he has heard. Then share the original message and compare. More often than not, the messages will be different! 2. If you do not have enough people in your household to play the game, you can do this with friends and family using your phone. List at least 4 people and their numbers. Find a convenient time for people to play the game. Begin by calling the first person and explain that you will give him or her a message and then that person should call the next person on the list to repeat the message and so on. The last person on the list should call you back (or text) you to tell you what the message is. You can text all the participants the original message and the last message. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 27 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Statement / Message to be passed on: I am going to give you information on feeding rabbits. It is important to feed them twice a day – in the morning and early evening. Each time you feed your rabbits, put fresh or dry plant material in the forage feeder (or on the floor of the hutch) and put concentrated food (grains or pellets) in the grain feeder. Rabbits need rich, concentrated food to grow well! Forage is hay or grass. Plant materials are dry or green plants such as tops of vegetables, lettuce, tender banana or bamboo leaves. Do not feed rabbits fruit pips or seeds, potato leaves or avocado. Water should always be available and be sure to wash the dish daily. Reflection Points 1. How different was the last message from the first message? Why? 2. If these were the instructions being passed down to the farmhand who feeds the rabbits, would s/he have received reliable information? Do you think the rabbits would be well-fed with such information? 3. If these were the instructions being passed down to the farmhand who feeds the rabbits, would s/he have received reliable information? Do you think the rabbits would be well-fed with such information? 4. Based on this game, what have you learned about receiving information? What strategies can you use when receiving information from someone, especially in the workplace? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 28 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Key Facts 1.1 Strategies in Receiving Information Effectively When you are receiving information verbally, in writing (hard copy or electronic), nonverbally or visually, you should always check to make sure the information is valid and that you have understood it well. You can do this in different ways: ✓ Repeat back the information to the person giving it to you: If you have misunderstood, the other person can clarify what they have said. ✓ Say you have not understood and ask for clarification. ✓ Ask open ended questions that will help you get more information from the other person. Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photography-of-womentalking-to-each-other-1181717/ ✓ Use appropriate nonverbal communication to show you understand or do not understand. ✓ Use active listening skills and avoid distractions. ✓ Make sure you are getting the information from a valid source: If verbal, you do not want to rely on a message that was passed through many people. Written materials and any information obtained through the internet should also be checked for its validity. ✓ Check that the information you are receiving is based on fact and not an emotional response or biased. ✓ Make sure that the information you are receiving is current and not outdated. ✓ Take notes: Write down important points when instructions or information is being given to you in case you need to refer to it later. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 29 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Read the following scenarios related to receiving instructions and answer the questions. Scenario 1: Food Delivery Service Julio works for a food delivery service delivering lunches to busy offices in town. While making a delivery, his colleague calls, telling him to hurry up as they have received several orders. Julio rushes back to pick up the food. In his haste, he picks up the wrong delivery slip and ends up bringing the food to the wrong office. After having waited for so long, the customers are annoyed. Julio called his supervisor to report the problem and his supervisor became angry at his for the mix-up. Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-paying-for-fooddelivery-with-a-credit-card-4393532/ 1. What happened and why? 2. How could this situation have been avoided? 3. What strategies can Helen use to make sure she receives information well in the future? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 30 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 4. How should Helen handle the customers at the office? Scenario 2: Food Processing Center Juan was recently hired to help a at a large food processing center in Cebu that processes fruits and vegetables into sauces and pastes. During his first week on the job his supervisor presented a lot of new information to him, including the 4-Step Process to keeping working spaces clean and sanitized. • Step 1 – Preparation o Remove loose dirt and food particles. Rinse with warm, Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/iRqUgXM-gj0 potable water. • Step 2 – Cleaning o Wash with hot water (60 °C) and detergent. Rinse with clean potable water. • Step 3 – Sanitizing (bacteria killing stage) o Treat with very hot, clean, potable water (75 °C) for at least 2 minutes. o Apply sanitizer as directed on the label. • Step 4 – Air drying o Leave benches, counters and equipment to air dry. One day he was instructed to prepare the working space for a new batch of jam that was going to be processed. He wasn’t 100% sure what his supervisor told him but thought it was not a big deal. It was just cleaning up the space after all. He wiped down the counters with some soap and water and then wiped them dry with a towel. He felt like there might have been another step but other workers were moving the fruits into the room. He didn’t want his supervisor to think he was too slow. Just before the workers making the jam cut into the fruits, the supervisor entered the room. He was surprised Juan was not still cleaning and sanitizing and asked him how he got it done so quickly. Juan smiled and proudly said he wiped all the counters down with soap and water and then dried them with a towel so they would be ready quickly. He even swept the floor. The supervisor looked at him in disbelief and halted the process… Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 31 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 1. Why did the supervisor halt the process? 2. How could this situation have been avoided? 3. What strategies can Juan use in the future to make sure he receives and understands information in the way that is expected? Re-read Key Facts 1.1 Strategies in Receiving Information Effectively above. Supplement your answers above with these strategies as applicable. You might have come up with new strategies too to add to the list! Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 32 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Practicing Effective Ways to Receive Information Act out the scenarios above with someone in your household. 1. First, act it out as it is written. 2. Then re-enact the scenario so that Helen or Juan is doing the right thing and applying effective strategies of receiving information. 3. Ask an observer to assess you as you play the role of Helen or Juan. The observer can use the rubric below. Strategies to Effectively Receive Information 1 2 Beginning Developing 3 4 Mostly Accomplished Accomplished The learner was able to… 1. Repeat back the information the person was giving 2. Say s/he did not understand and ask for clarification 3. Ask open ended questions to get more information from the other person 4. Use appropriate non-verbal communication to show s/he did or did not understand 5. Use active listening skills and avoid distractions 6. Make sure s/he was getting the information from a valid source 7. Check that the information received was based on fact and not an emotional response or biased 8. Make sure that the information you are receiving is current and not outdated 9. Take notes of important points and key information Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 33 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Activity 4: Conveying Messages and Ideas in the Workplace Objectives: ✓ Identify strategies to effectively convey messages and information in the workplace ✓ Determine the best ways to convey information in the workplace for different situations (verbal, written, visual) and audiences ✓ Use workplace behaviors and attitudes that will help you effectively give and receive information ✓ Prepare for meetings that will help you effectively give and receive information Recommended time: 30-50 minutes Think about types of information and ways in which you convey it to others in your personal life and in the workplace. Fill in the table. PERSONAL LIFE WORKPLACE Ex. Invitation to a party: mail or email a card; e-vite; text; phone call; face to face Ex. Updates on progress towards accomplishing tasks: meeting face to face or virtually (could be one on one with a supervisor or in a team meeting); written report; powerpoint presentation, … Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 34 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook When conveying messages or ideas in your personal or work life, what do you take into consideration? Ex. Who your audience is: this might affect how you say or write something (you might be more informal with a colleague compared to your supervisor). Read Key Facts 1.2 below and compare what you wrote above with the tips on how to share information, ideas and instructions effectively. In your personal and professional lives, you are already doing many of these things! Bringing awareness to it, especially in the workplace, will help you become a better communicator. Key Facts 1.2: Strategies in Conveying Information Effectively When conveying information, ideas or instructions, consider the following: ✓ Your audience: Who are you talking to? What information or ideas do you need or want to convey and what is the best way to do that with this particular audience? Should it be formal or informal? ✓ Medium of communication: What is the best way to deliver the message to your intended audience? For instance, is it something that needs to be in writing? Would the message be better given verbally? Should the message be sent electronically? ✓ Your non-verbal communication: Remember, your body language is very important! Your facial expressions, gestures and posture will impact the way in which others receive your information. ✓ Be confident and clear when speaking ✓ Be clear when speaking, writing or presenting visual information: Keep it simple and to the point! You do not want to confuse people when sharing information or graphics or giving instructions. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 35 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook ✓ Use active listening to check if the those listening to you have understood your intended message. ✓ Ask questions: This can help you check if you have been understood and provides an opportunity to deepen a discussion. ✓ Proofread your written communication before sharing it: Errors found in, for example, a flyer, poster, brochure, letter, memo, invitation, etc. might make you appear unprofessional. ✓ Show empathy and respect to whom you are communicating with As you can see from the list of strategies above, one’s workplace behaviors and attitudes will also affect how you receive or convey information. Write a list of appropriate workplace behaviors and attitudes based on what you know from your own or others’ experiences that will help one be more effective at receiving or giving information in the workplace. 1. 6. 2. 7. 3. 8. 4. 9. 5. 10. Check your list with the information you may have learned in Module 2: Working with Others (NC I). For each item on the list, think about how it impacts the way others receive information from you or how it might affect the way you receive information from others. Appropriate Workplace Behaviors and Attitudes A Recap of Module 2: Working with Others (NC I) ✓ Dress neatly and appropriately for the work: If wearing a uniform make sure it is clean and neat; clothing should not get in the way or prevent you from doing your work; clothing should not be distracting to you or others. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 36 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook ✓ Be on time: Attendance and punctuality are essential to keep your job. Let your supervisor know if you are going to be late. ✓ Manage time well: Focus on doing your work during work hours; follow break times. ✓ Speak to co‐workers in a positive and respectful manner. ✓ Speak to supervisors in a positive and productive manner. ✓ Be open to feedback and ask for it. Feedback can be very helpful. Positive feedback helps you be proud of what you are doing well. Constructive feedback helps you become aware of things that you can improve at work. Welcome feedback from supervisors and coworkers. If they do not provide any feedback, you may ask them how they think you are doing your job, what they think you do well and what you could do better. ✓ Be honest: Being honest will gain the respect of co‐workers. ✓ Keep discussions and interactions related to work: Don’t bring your personal problems to work or let them affect how you do your job or interact with others. Avoid topics or making comments that might make others feel uncomfortable. ✓ Stay positive: Don’t complain or be pulled into negative discussions about work. Rather, approach problems positively and help to think about how to improve the situation. ✓ Be respectful of others and your environment: Take proper care of equipment, put things back where they belong, keep the environment tidy. ✓ Be a team player: Participate proactively and respectfully and listen to the ideas of others as well. ✓ Respect the roles of others. ✓ Believe in yourself and what you do: Being positive about your job and how you do it will help you to succeed and achieve your goals. One of the most common contexts in which information and ideas are shared at the workplace is through formal and informal meetings. Think about yourself when participating in a group meeting. How do you practice effective workplace behaviors in meetings? What strategies do you use to effectively receive or give information? How do you describe yourself participating in a group discussion? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 37 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Some people thrive in such situations while others may find it very difficult to participate in group meetings. Meetings, however, are essential for a business to function and succeed. Here are some tips that will help you communicate well in a meeting: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Be prepared before the meeting. Arrive earlier before the meeting starts. Organize and share your thoughts confidently. When speaking, ensure that your voice is audible enough to be heard. Be polite to answer questions and focus on the issue. When your thoughts are already shared by others, don’t feel like there is nothing else to add. Express your agreement and take the idea further!3 Whether it is verbally like through a meeting, written like a report or email, or visual such as posters or photographs, we need to think about how we choose the appropriate medium of communication when conveying a message or sharing information. At the beginning of the module we identified different modes and media of communication. Now we will look at factors to consider in choosing an appropriate form of communication to convey a message or information. Some of this will be familiar from Module 1 NC I when we talked about the difference between verbal, written (hard copy) and electronic communication. Before looking at the list below, do a quick brainstorm and write down some examples of the ways in which we convey messages and information in the workplace and when the most appropriate time to use it is. 1. Verbal: 2. Written (paper): 3 Brightspeaking. (n.d.). How to Effectively Participate in Group Discussions. https://brightspeaking.com/en/howto-effectively-participate-in-a-group-discussion/ Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 38 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook 3. Written (electronic): 4. Nonverbal: 5. Visual: Key Facts 1.3: Choosing Appropriate Forms of Communication Mode of Communication Examples of Media of Communication Appropriate Times to Use this Form of Communication Verbal: through speaking (or sign language for the deaf) • Face to face meeting • phone • video conference or other virtual meeting • presentations • Interview • Speech • Announcements • Casual conversation • You want immediate feedback. • Your message is simple and easy to understand. • You don’t need a written record of the interaction. • You can get together easily. • You want to solve a problem or make a decision. • You want to develop trust. Nonverbal: information that is conveyed without speaking but with the body • • • • • • • • To accompany verbal communication – remember, your body language also gives a certain message to the person or people you are conveying information too and can affect how they interpret the message! Facial expression Gestures Posture Body language Eye contact Personal space Physical appearance Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 39 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Written: information is received or conveyed through written language • • • • • • • • • • • Visual: information that is conveyed or received through graphics • • • • • Learner’s Handbook Email • Choose a written message on paper when: Letters o You don’t need immediate Memo feedback. Newsletter o Your message is complex and Newspaper requires planning. Magazines o You need a written record for Notes your files. Text message o Your audience is more formal. Books/manuals/brochures o You want to avoid On-line database miscommunication. Record books • Choose an electronic message if: o You need quick but not immediate feedback. o Your message is simple, but you’re physically separated. o You need an electronic record. o You are geographically spread out, or want to avoid time-zone barriers. o You want to avoid miscommunication. o The main way of communicating with the audience is via email, texts, etc. Photograph • To catch the intended audience’s attention and engage them in the Graphs information. Pictures and Charts photographs can tell a story! Pictures • To present information in a Posters simple way that is easy to understand (need to make sure what you present is simple though!) Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 40 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Exercise: Choosing a Form of Communication For each of the situations below, choose a form of communication you will use to respond. Situation Medium of Communication 1. During a weekly meeting, your boss asks you to record the discussion and highlight the different important future plans and actions. 2. To prevent people from crossing into a dangerous area of a construction zone, you have been instructed to create a sign telling them to not enter. 3. One of your sister’s is going to get married next month. You want to attend the wedding, but it will require missing three days of work. You need to inform your boss and human resources that you wish to take time off. 4. A potential client wants you to build a large fence for their property. You need to create a formal statement estimating the costs for the job. 5. You contact an employer in Davao, but you are currently in Manila. He tells you to send him your CV and a brief explanation describing why you would be a good fit for the company. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 41 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Practicing Effective Ways to Convey Information Choose one (or more!) of the situations above. Create any written documents you would respond with if you were in that situation and present it to a friend or family member as if they are the intended recipient of your information. Remember to practice all the strategies discussed earlier in conveying information! You and our friend or family member can then use the rubric below to assess how well you were able to convey the information. Rubric for Assessment: Strategies to Effectively Give Information 1 2 3 4 Beginning Developing Mostly Accomplished Accomplished The learner was able to… 1. Choose the appropriate medium of communication given the audience 2. Provide information that was based on fact and not an emotional response or biased 3. Provide information that was current 4. Provide information from a valid source 5. Make sure the audience understood the message by seeking feedback 6. Use appropriate non-verbal communication 7. Use active listening skills and avoid distractions when presenting the information 8. Present information clearly and concisely 9. Supplement verbal communication with visuals (photographs, posters, etc.) as appropriate. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 42 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Activity 5: Communication Protocols and Procedures: Lines of Communication and Communication Storage Objectives ✓ Describe different ways of storing communication and information ✓ Identify and respect the lines of communication in the workplace Recommended time: 30-40 minutes Now that you have learned how giving and receiving information is so important in the workplace, it is also necessary to think about how this is done within a business or organization. There are protocols and procedures related to communication that are necessary to follow in order for the business to function and succeed. Two important aspects are: 1. Lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues 2. Storage of information Think about a situation from your personal or work life when you did not receive the information you needed to carry out a task or when you were responsible for not passing on information that was needed. What happened and what should have been done differently? Read the scenarios below. For each one, answer the following questions: 1. What happened in the scenario? 2. What should have been the line of communication? 3. What broke the line of communication? 4. What are the potential consequences of the broken line of communication? 5. How can such a situation be avoided in the future? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 43 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Scenario 1: Maria works as a sales associate at a shop that sells mobile phone. One day a customer came in complaining that his new phone was not working properly and that he needed a refund. Maria asked the customer some questions to find out why the phone did not work. She was not authorized to give refunds and her supervisor was out for the day. She Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/iuU2aZdzp_M told the customer to come back the next day to talk to her supervisor. Maria meant to write down information about the interaction with the customer but the store got busy and she forgot. The next day the customer returned to the store. The supervisor was there but had no idea about the problem from the day before. Maria had the day off. The customer became very annoyed when she had to explain the whole problem again. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 44 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/sMKUYIasyDM Scenario 2: Joseph works for a busy computer repair service company. He takes incoming calls from customers who need help and then assigns technicians according to the work that needs to be done. One day he gets a call about a family emergency and has to leave work abruptly for several days. Nobody has access to the list of customers awaiting service. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 45 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/cropconcerned-black-woman-using-smartphoneon-street-5700200/ Learner’s Handbook Scenario 3: You are on your way to work one morning when you start to feel ill. A colleague is riding in the same jeepney so you ask him to tell your supervisor that you will not be able to make it to work today. It turns out your colleague was sent out on errands shortly after arriving at work and he forgot to inform your supervisor that you were ill. Your supervisor sends you a text, clearly annoyed that you did not show up at work. As you can see from the scenarios, lines of communication are important in the workplace, whether it is between colleagues or between employees and supervisors or management. Messages, information, instructions and ideas cannot be conveyed or received well unless the lines of communication are open and understood by all. There are certain protocols and procedures that every business has to promote clear communication. As an employee it is important to be aware of what you need to do to ensure information you have or need is getting to the right people at the right time and in a manner that the company sees fit. For example, if you are sick and there is a workplace procedure that says you need to call your supervisor or Human Resource office, you should not ask a colleague to inform the supervisor instead! Another important element of keeping information flowing and getting to the right people at the right time is how we store information within the workplace. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 46 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Surely at home, we have our own way of keeping personal or family documents. What types of documents does your family keep and how do they store them? Discuss this with your family members so you get a better understanding of how this is done. Now think about a workplace. What type of information would need to be stored? How does information get stored? From your discussions and reflection, you may have realized that information can be stored manually or digitally. Read below for further information! Key Facts 1.4: Storing and Organizing Information Electronically and Manually 4 5 • There are many different forms of communication and information that are created, stored and shared in a workplace. For example: financial records, reports, customers’ personal information, business letters, minutes of meetings, faxes, contracts, personnel forms, daily activities, sales records, product information (price, brochure, order form),… the list goes on and will vary according to the type of business. 4 Ray, L. (2017, November 21). Should a Company Keep Both Digital Physical Records? Retrieved November 15, 2020, from https://smallbusiness.chron.com/should-company-keep-digital-physical-records-78503.html 5 MGHS Business Services. Process and Maintain Workplace Information. Retrieved November 15, 2020, from http://mghsbusinessservices.weebly.com/uploads/3/0/8/6/30867217/bsbinm201process__maintain_workplace_information4weebly.pdf Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 47 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook • An electronic filing system is where files or documents are digitally stored in a computer. Digital documents are stored in computer drives or online servers. • In a manual filing system files or documents are manually compiled using various types of storage like filing cabinets, office folders, storage boxes, organizers, etc. • An electronic system reduces storage space requirements. Source: https://www.tradesecretslaw.co m/wpcontent/uploads/sites/232/2015/ 09/shutterstock_206994166.jpg • Regardless of the type of system, an information management system enables people to capture, process, store and retrieve information. When a system is well organized, it will help a business run more efficiently and be more productive. • More and more information is stored electronically but in most businesses a combination of an electronic and manual filing system is used. • ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ It is essential for businesses to keep their electronic and manual files organized and up to date. Without a good system, a business can fail. Tips for Storing Information Electronically Manually Use secure computers ✓ Organize file cabinets, boxes, etc. by types Schedule routine backups of the of records and information computers in the business ✓ Do not mix different types of documents Create file folders for all basic record in the same place. Keep them separate types or documents for better organization and ease of Use subfolders to help better organize retrieval information under each folder ✓ Label cabinets, boxes, folders, etc. so Use cloud-based information sharing and everyone who needs access to documents storage. Examples include Dropbox, can easily find them Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, iCloud ✓ Plan ahead – if you know you will and Box accumulate more paper copies of certain documents, leave space in that particular folder, box or cabinet for growth Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 48 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Lines of Communication and Storage of Information Go to the nearest store in your neighborhood with whom you are very much acquainted. Ask permission and explain about the purpose of you interview. In your interview ask the following questions: 1. What are the essential transaction documents that a store owner deals with every day? 2. How are these documents used and shared amongst your employees? 3. How does he/she manage and organize these documents so they can be easily accessed? 4. Why is it important to organize these documents? Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 49 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Sharing is caring Share the information you learned from the interview with an adult in your household. Ask that person to share their own experience with the storage and use of information in their own work situations. Write any learning points below. Performance Criteria Checklist The Performance Criteria Checklist is an opportunity for you to assess your learning outcomes in the session and know how well you did in doing the activities in this session. You will speak to your facilitator to: 1. Share your experiences in completing the session 2. Discuss your development and progress towards the intended skills 3. Plan how you will move forward to continue making progress in the module Conduct a quick self-assessment and answer the table below. Statements Did you… 1. Identify modes and media of communication? 2. Check that information to be given or received is accurate and reliable? Please check YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if you haven't shown it or cannot do it yet YES NO Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 50 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Statements Did you… 3. Identify ways in which to effectively receive information? 4. Demonstrate ways in which to effectively receive information? Identify strategies to effectively convey messages and information for different situations in the workplace? 5. 6. Use workplace behaviors and attitudes that will help you effectively give and receive information? 7. Prepare for meetings that will help you effectively give and receive information? 8. Describe different ways of storing communication and information? 9. Identify and respect the lines of communication in the workplace? Learner’s Handbook Please check YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if you haven't shown it or cannot do it yet YES NO Guide to the Learner and Facilitator’s Discussion: Topics to discuss during the Learning Check: 1. Parts of the module that were the easiest to answer/do. 2. Parts of the module that were the hardest to answer/do. 3. Parts of the module that need further clarification or explanation. 4. Additional support needed by the learner from the facilitator. 5. Review and check of the learner’s answers and outputs for the session. 6. Feedback on the learner’s performance in terms of the following: mastery of content, skills development, and pace in answering the module. 7. Plans for how the learner will move forward with the module. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 51 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) Learner’s Handbook Session 1 – Writing Space Use this space to complete any of the written assignments above or write any thoughts or ideas that have come to mind on modes and media of communication, effective strategies of giving and receiving information, using proper protocol and procedures regarding the lines of communication in the workplace and the storage of information. Congratulations! Now that you know how to choose modes and media of communication effectively give and receive information and follow procedures regarding lines of communication and information storage, the next step is to perform duties following workplace instructions. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 52 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Session 2: Perform Duties Following Workplace Instructions Performance Criteria: 2.1 Written notices and instructions are read and interpreted in accordance with organizational guidelines 2.2 Routine written instructions are followed based on established procedures 2.3 Feedback is given to workplace supervisor-based instructions/ information received 2.4 Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner 2.5 Where necessary, clarifications about routine workplace procedures and matters concerning conditions of employment are sought and asked from appropriate sources 2.6 Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented Key Topics and Learning Points 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Strategies to understand written instructions interpreting and implementing instructions following a meeting Seeking clarification Giving feedback on instructions and task to supervisor Conditions of employment and rights and responsibilities When interpreting instructions, try to summarize each step into fewer words. During a meeting, practice active listening, asking questions for clarification, taking notes and repeating what you have understood. Always seek clarification when you have not understood instructions. When providing feedback to a supervisor on an instruction given, be polite, specific and solution-oriented. Be aware of your rights and responsibilities in the workplace and find ways to talk to your supervisor if there is a conflict. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 53 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 6: Interpreting and Following Routine Written Instructions Objectives: ✓ Identify strategies to help you understand written instructions ✓ Apply strategies that will help you understand written and visual instructions Time Required: 40- 60 minutes In some form or another, we all receive written instructions to complete a particular task on a regular basis at work. The instructions could be a text, an email, a poster, a memo or even a letter. Often, it is given in conjunction with verbal instructions such as through a phone call or a face to face meeting. Think about examples from your personal and work life when you were given written instructions to follow. Were the instructions clear? Not clear? What do you find helpful in understanding written instructions to be able to perform a task well? Read the scenarios below. Answer the questions that follow each scenario. Scenario 1: Safety at the Construction Site A young assistant supervisor named Paolo has only been on the job for a month at a construction site. He was asked by his supervisor to oversee the welding area where grills are fabricated for the windows. He was also reminded to observe safety rules and to take precautions as he enters the workplace. Due to noise interruptions, he was not able to understand his supervisor clearly, so he just nodded and proceeded to the area directly. Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/qvBYnMuNJ9A 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 54 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook As he arrived, he saw a notice at the entrance, reminding every personnel about the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like wearing of hand gloves, hard hat, protective eyeglass and safety boots. Without minding the safety reminder, he went straight ahead to the welding area where some welders were working. As he approached the steel table, he did not notice that he stepped on slippery ground caused by used spilled oil. He slipped and fell and his head hit the side of the steel table. He became unconscious and his head was severely bleeding. He was then rushed to the emergency hospital for medical treatment. 1. What happened in the scenario? 2. Name two different types of instructions that Paolo should have followed. 3. What prevented Paolo from following the instructions regarding PPE in the workplace? 4. Has a similar situation happened to you? Have you ever experienced rushing into something even without understanding an instruction clearly? What happened? 5. If you were Paolo, what would you have done to avoid such a situation? Could his supervisor have done anything differently? 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 55 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Scenario 2: At the piggery Piglets are born with needle-sharp teeth that need to be taken out. Read the following directions on trimming a pig’s teeth: Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hog_confinement_barn_interior.jpg Procedure: 1. Restrain the piglet by grasping the head with one hand. 2. Force the mouth open using fingers on the same hand near the back edges of the mouth. Be careful that you do not choke the piglet. 3. Use sharp pliers taking care not to injure the gums. Hold the clippers as perpendicular as possible to the teeth 4. Completely cut off the teeth as close to the gum as possible 5. After clipping the teeth on one side turn the pig to give access to the teeth on the other side of the head. 6. Clean the pliers with a disinfectant after working with each litter of piglets. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 56 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Use the space below to write reflections related to the following questions: What techniques do you use while reading for instructions or directions? a. Do you read each direction step by step? b. Do you imagine the process? c. Without looking at the directions, try to describe this process to another person. d. What strategies would you use to remember the directions more clearly? Read Key Facts 1.5 below and compare what you wrote above with the strategies on how to interpret written instructions. You may have identified other strategies that are not in Key Facts 1.5. Feel free to add them to the list! Key Facts 1.5: Strategies to Interpret Written Instructions • Summarize the steps: Try to summarize each step into fewer words. • Interpreting pictures or diagrams: Put the steps into your own words. • Note-taking: Write your own observations and thoughts regarding each step. When reading the instructions or directions: • First skim through the instructions. This entails looking for keywords and details of importance. • Try to interpret the instructions or directions using the strategies provided. • Do each step, step-by-step. If you mess up or do not understand how to get to the next step, glance at the steps ahead and behind to get a better picture of the process. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 57 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Interpreting Instructions Presented in Pictures One of the strategies listed above is about interpreting pictures or diagrams that give some sort of instruction. We have all seen these before – for example, pictures used on clothing labels to explain how to wash them; instructions on how to use machinery; instructions on safety procedures in the workplace, etc. 1. Using the images provided, write an instruction for each step of the process for milking a cow. Write the instructions next to each of the images. 6 1. 2. 6 Corrigan, R. (2020). How to Milk a Cow. https://www.wikihow.com/Milk-a-Cow 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 58 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook 3. 4. 5. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 59 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook 6. 7. 2. Answer the following questions: a. How did you interpret the visual instructions? b. What difficulties did you face? c. If you do not understand instructions that are presented visually, what can you do to make sure you understand the instructions? d. What advice would you give somebody writing instructions? 3. Share the pictures and directions with a friend or family member. Can they understand the pictures and your instructions? See how your written instructions compare with those found at the end of the module in the Key to Correction. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 60 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 7: Interpreting and Implementing Instructions Following a Meeting Objectives: ✓ Identify steps one can take to interpret and carry out instructions following a meeting ✓ Practice steps to interpreting and carrying out instructions following a meeting Time Required: 40- 60 minutes Often instructions are given in writing but accompanied by a verbal explanation as well. Usually during meetings new ideas, strategies and approaches to completing tasks emerge. As a result, people will get instructed to perform various tasks to work towards achieving the group’s goals. Think about examples from your personal and work life when as a result of a family or work meeting someone gave you instructions to complete a task. For example, if your family has decided to have other relatives live in your house, they might ask you to remove certain things from a room, put them in a specific location and clean the room. Think about how the meeting went and what you were tasked to do. Did you have any challenges in the process? Did you learn anything that might be useful in the future if you get tasked with things following a meeting? List strategies on how to interpret and carry out instructions following a meeting. Talk to people in your household or friends who might have additional ideas. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 61 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Read Key Facts 1.6 below and compare what you wrote above with the strategies on how to interpret and carry out instructions following a meeting. You may have identified other strategies that are not in Key Facts 1.6. Feel free to add them to the list! Key Facts 1.6: Strategies to Interpret and Carry Out Instructions Following a Meeting ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Be prepared and ready for the meeting Use active listening skills during the meeting Take notes of important points during the meeting Ask questions for clarification if you have not understood a point being made Repeat back the instructions you have heard regarding next steps you are to take Make a to do list for tasks to do after the meeting Strategize how you are going to accomplish the tasks assigned to you – Will you be working with others? Is there certain equipment you will need? etc. ✓ Check in with your supervisor if you get stuck and are unsure of the way forward Let’s Apply: Interpreting and Carrying Out Instructions Following a Meeting Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/VCtI-0qlVgA You work as a technician installing computer software and fixing minor hardware problems. Your company has decided that it needs to expand its customer base if it is to make a profit this year. A meeting is held with people from your division to identify ways in which to do this. Your supervisor is counting on you to take action after the meeting to play a role in increasing the number of customers you serve. What should you do before, during and after the meeting to make sure you can respond to your supervisor’s request? 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 62 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Ask a few other people in your household to role play the scenario. Ask one person to observe you during the process and fill out the rubric below based on your performance. Rubric for Assessment: Strategies to Interpret and Carry Out Instructions Following a Meeting 1 2 3 4 Beginning Developing Mostly Accomplished Accomplished The learner was able to… 1. Prepare and be ready for the meeting 2. Use active listening skills during the meeting 3. Take notes of important points during the meeting 4. Ask questions for clarification if s/he did not understood a point being made 5. Repeat back the instructions heard regarding next steps to take 6. Make a to do list for tasks to do after the meeting 7. Strategize how s/he is going to accomplish the tasks assigned to you 8. Check in with the supervisor if s/he stuck and are unsure of the way forward 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 63 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 8: Seeking Clarification and Giving Feedback on Instructions Received Objectives: ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ Seek clarification when instructions are not understood Provide feedback to supervisor on instructions and tasks to be carried out Identify rights and responsibilities of employers and employees Develop an awareness of the conditions of employment and speak with a supervisor when the conditions are not being met Time Required: 40-60 minutes Throughout this module you have learned the importance of seeking clarification when you have not understood something. This is particularly important when it comes to following written or verbal instructions! It is not always easy to speak up and ask someone to repeat what they have said but it is absolutely necessary to avoid making things worse, especially when you are not clear about an instruction that has been given! There are other times too when you will need to be proactive and talk to your employer or supervisor. You might need to give the supervisor feedback on how well or not well a particular task or approach to completing a task is going. You might also find yourself in a situation where you are concerned about certain instructions or tasks falling outside of your agreed upon condition of employment. Think about… 1. examples from your personal and work life when you had to seek clarification on an instruction given to you or when you wish you had sought clarification but did not. What type of situation was it? If you asked for clarification, how did you feel doing that? If you did not seek clarification, why not? 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 64 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook 2. a time when you gave feedback to a supervisor 3. a situation where you felt like what was being asked of you was outside of your conditions of employment. What did you do about it? Your colleague Joseph has come to you for advice. The supervisor sent him an email asking him to add information to some files that another colleague is also updating. Joe is confused, wondering if he should add his information to the files at the same time as his colleague or if he should wait for his colleague to make changes first and then add his information to those updated files. Give Joseph some tips on how to seek clarification from the supervisor. You might have given Joseph some tips such as: • Thank the supervisor and then state that you need some clarification on the instructions. • Explain what part of the instructions you need clarification on. • Ask the supervisor nicely to explain the instructions further either in an email, face to face or a phone call. • Thank the supervisor for his or her time. If Joseph had received the instructions verbally from the supervisor, he could have used the same process but also: • Repeat back to the supervisor what he has heard for verification. • Ask open ended questions to the supervisor so the supervisor could provide more information • Summarize next steps he will take 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 65 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Exercise: Seeking Clarification on Written Instructions You are now Joseph! Write an email to your supervisor seeking clarification about updating the files. Use the template below. Send From To… Cc… Subject: See a sample email in the Key to Correction at the end of the module. Madame Reyes met with Joseph to further discuss the instructions. Joe received the updated files from his colleague and proceeded to add the information he was requested to include. In the process he realized that additional information was going to be needed from the Accounting Office to make the files complete. He didn’t have the authority to ask them to do that but he wasn’t sure how to give feedback to his supervisor on the issue. Give Joseph some tips on how to give feedback to a supervisor. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 66 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook You might have given Joseph some tips such as: • Write your ideas down first before meeting the supervisor. • Update the supervisor on the progress being made towards accomplishing the task. • Ask if you can give feedback. • Politely give the feedback. • Be specific. • Be positive and solution-oriented. . Let’s Exercise: Providing Feedback to a Supervisor You are now Joseph again! Find a partner you can role play with. You will be Joseph and your partner will be Madame Reyes, the supervisor. Use the tips above to give Madame Reyes feedback. Ask your partner to assess whether or not you have put the advice into action by checking yes or no: YES NO 1. Write your ideas down first before meeting the supervisor. 2. Update the supervisor on the progress being made towards accomplishing the task. 3. Ask if you can give feedback. 4. Politely give the feedback. 5. Be specific. 6. Be positive and solution-oriented. Madame Reyes accepted the feedback given by Joseph. She was so thrilled with his suggestion that she asked him to gather the additional information from the accounting division. Joseph knew this was going to take a long time and he had already been working over time for several weeks without pay. He was not sure how to tell Madame Reyes no but felt that his conditions of employment were not being respected. Give Joseph some tips on how to talk to his supervisor about the conditions of employment not being respected. Also, remind him that the employer and the employee both have rights and responsibilities. Do the exercise below to recall rights and responsibilities, particularly those related to the condition of employment. . 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 67 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Exercise: Roles and Responsibilities in the Workplace Legal responsibilities apply to both workers and employers. Just as employers have some legal responsibilities at work, workers also have legal responsibilities. They are different responsibilities, but both have responsibilities under the law. Below is a list of responsibilities. Decide if the responsibility is primarily that of the employer or the worker and write E for employer or W for worker in the space before the statement. The first one has been done as an example. Check your answers below in Key Facts 1.7 after completing the table. You can also verify your answers at the end of the module. E To make a work agreement with the employee, agreeing on conditions, time and place To follow up with the employee on the agreed terms To personally perform the work in the time, place and conditions as agreed upon To supervise and provide suitable conditions of work so workers have security, health and dignity To honor terms of payment To follow the instructions of the worker’s boss To safeguard standards, staff and environment To register and pay into social security for the employee To take care of the well‐being of staff and qualified dependents (e.g. wife/husband, children) To avoid any issues or problems at the workplace that will endanger the worker or his/her colleagues To agree on a performance contract To follow the rules at work 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 68 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Key Facts 1.7: Responsibilities of the Employer and the Worker • • • • • • • • Responsibilities of the Employer To make a work agreement with the employee, agreeing on conditions, time and place; To follow up with the employee on the agreed terms; To supervise and provide suitable conditions of work so workers have security, health and dignity; To honor terms of payment; To safeguard standards, staff and environment; To register and pay into social security for the employee; To take care of the well‐being of staff and qualified dependents (e.g. wife/husband, children); To agree on a performance contract. • • • • Responsibilities of the Worker To personally perform the work in the time, place and conditions as agreed upon; To follow the instructions of the worker’s boss; To avoid any issues or problems at the workplace that will endanger the worker or his/her colleagues; To follow the rules at work. Think about it! This section encourages you to express your opinions to family and friends about a topic. Start a discussion with them face to face, via text, chat, or whatever means available and comfortable to you. It’s always great to share your ideas and hear more points of view ☺. Answer the following questions. 1. Think about seeking clarification from a supervisor on instructions given at work. Is this dangerous to do given the supervisor might think you are not capable to perform the task? What has been your own experience at work? 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 69 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook 2. Share your experience when you gave feedback to a supervisor regarding a task you were instructed to do. What happened? How did the supervisor react? 3. Show your adult family members Key Facts 1.7: Responsibilities of the Employer and the Worker. Ask them for their thoughts around these responsibilities. Which ones do they think exist in their own places of work? Which ones do not? How do they feel about having or not having the responsibilities stated in the list? What do they do when their conditions of employment are not being followed? Remember to thank them for their time and their help on your schoolwork. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 70 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Performance Criteria Checklist The Performance Criteria Checklist is an opportunity for you to assess your learning outcomes in the session and know how well you did in doing the activities in this session. You will speak to your facilitator to: 1. Share your experiences in completing the session 2. Discuss your development and progress towards the intended skills 3. Plan how you will move forward to continue making progress in the module Conduct a quick self-assessment and answer the table below. Statements Did you… Please check YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if you haven't shown it or cannot do it yet YES NO 1. Apply strategies that will help you understand written and visual instructions? 2. Practice steps to interpreting and carrying out instructions following a meeting? 3. Seek clarification when instructions are not understood? 4. Provide feedback to supervisor on instructions and tasks to be carried out? 5. Identify rights and responsibilities of employers and employees? 6. Develop an awareness of the conditions of employment and speak with a supervisor when the conditions are not being met? Guide to the Learner and Facilitator’s Discussion: Topics to discuss during the Learning Check: 1. Parts of the module that were the easiest to answer/do. 2. Parts of the module that were the hardest to answer/do. 3. Parts of the module that need further clarification or explanation. 4. Additional support needed by the learner from the facilitator. 5. Review and check of the learner’s answers and outputs for the session. 6. Feedback on the learner’s performance in terms of the following: mastery of content, skills development, and pace in answering the module. 7. Plans for how the learner will move forward with the module. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 71 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Session 2 – Writing Space Use this space to complete any of the written assignments above or write any thoughts or ideas that have come to mind on strategies to understand written instructions, interpreting and implementing instructions following a meeting, seeking clarification, and giving feedback on instructions and task to a supervisor. Congratulations! Now that you know how to interpret and respond to written instructions and seek clarification as needed, the next step is to identify and use workplace documents and records. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 72 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Session 3: Completing Relevant Work-Related Documents Performance Criteria: 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Range of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed accurately and legibly Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and documents Errors in recording information on forms/ documents are identified and acted upon Reporting requirements to supervisor are completed according to organizational guidelines Key Topics and Learning Points 1. Workplace documents and forms 2. Business letters 3. Writing and filling out workplace documents and forms There are many different types of workplace documents and forms that can be categorized into business-related record keeping; procedural and informational documents; and forms of communication. Business letters must be professional without any mistakes. Pay close attention when filling out workplace documents and forms. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 73 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 9: Identifying Relevant Workplace Documents and Forms Objectives: ✓ Identify workplace documents and forms ✓ Categorize workplace documents and forms into business-related record keeping; procedural and informational documents; and forms of communication Time Required: 40- 60 minutes Think about records and document that you see in your daily life. Think about, for example, when you are on public transportation, at the grocery store, at a health clinic, at a job site. List examples of these workplace records and documents. Provided in the table below are workplace documents and their detailed information. Read the workplace document on the left and match it with its correct definition, meaning or purpose on the right. For example: 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 74 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Workplace Document Agenda User guide Invoice E-mail messages Leave request forms Contract Receipt Notice Delivery note Work instructions Learner’s Handbook Definition, meaning or purpose Messages distributed by electronic means from one computer user to one or more recipients via a network. A written acknowledgment of having received, or taken into one's possession, a specified amount of money, goods, etc. This is to be completed when an employee is requesting time off from work. Written or formal information notifying or warning about a fact. Detailed information on how something should be done or operated. A list of matters to be discussed at a meeting or a list of aims or possible future achievements. Certifies the delivery of goods to the buyer. A guide intended to give assistance to people using a certain product or operating within a certain system. A legally binding agreement usually concerning employment, sales, or tenancy. A list of things provided, or work done together with their cost, for payment at a later time. Refer to Key Facts 1.8: Types of Workplace Documents to find the definitions of the workplace documents. Key Facts 1.8: Different Workplace Documents Document Meeting Minutes Policy Regulation Notice Detailed Information A written account of what went on and was discussed during a meeting. A course or principle of action adopted or proposed by an organization or individual. A rule or directive made and maintained by an authority Notification or warning of something 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 75 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Costing sheet Progress record (report) Work instructions User guide Quotation/Estimate form Notice Invoice Memo Circular (flier) E-mail messages Letter Agenda Project report Purchase order Leave request forms Receipt Contract Learner’s Handbook A document that reflects the cost of the items and services required for a certain project or job. Explains in detail how far you've gone towards the completion of a project Detailed information on how something should be done or operated. A guide intended to give assistance to people using a certain product or operating within a certain system. A formal statement setting out the estimated cost for a particular job or service. Written or formal information notifying or warning about a fact. A list of things provided or work done together with their cost, for payment at a later time A memo is a message you send to a large group of employees, like your entire department or everyone at the company. You might need to write a memo to inform staff of upcoming events, or broadcast internal changes A kind of written announcement that is distributed to a large number of people to convey any commercial or non-commercial message at minimum time, costs and efforts. Messages distributed by electronic means from one computer user to one or more recipients via a network A written form of communication from one party to another A list of matters to be discussed at a meeting or a list of aims or possible future achievements This is used to document project successes, lessons learned and performance, in order to signal improvement in project delivery for the future This is a document created by a buyer, indicating the details of the items they wish to purchase from a seller This is to be completed when an employee is requesting time off from work. A written acknowledgment of having received, or taken into one's possession, a specified amount of money, goods, etc A legally binding agreement usually concerning employment, sales, or tenancy. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 76 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Accident and emergency Tools and equipment safe operating Best practice customer service Menu Shift report Requisition form Graphics Signs Quality assurance Job application Job time sheet Learner’s Handbook This is a set of instructions to follow in event of a workplace accident or emergency Safe operating procedures for tools and equipment are developed in conjuction with the manufacturer’s operating procedures These outline the steps for answering customer enquiries, dealing with customer complaints and reviewing customer satisfaction. An offering of a set of options often used in restaurants but also, for other goods and services. Written explanation of the events that passed during one’s time at work. The report also includes a summary of the situation at the end of the shift, including items that others may need to deal with or be aware of. Internal request by an employee to purchase an item. The request is sent to other individuals in the organization for approval. Visual images used to inform, illustrate, or entertain. An object or image indicating something. These outline the checks required to ensure that expected quality levels are achieved and maintained throughout each stage of production. A form you fill out if you want a job. You provide personal details and qualifications for the specific job. Where a worker records the time he/she has worked. Sample Types of Workplace Documents: Job Time Sheet Receipt 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 77 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) https://biz30.timedoctor.com/free-timesheettemplates/ Learner’s Handbook https://www.template.net/business/receipttemplates/cash-receipt-templates/ Requisition Form Leave Form https://www.mtas.tennessee.edu/reference/requisitionform-sample https://www.teacherph.com/application-for-leaveof-absence-cs-form-6/ Quotation Form Job Application Form https://www.jotform.com/pdf-templates/printingquotation-template 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines https://www.template.net/business/applicationform-template/job-application-templates/ Page 78 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Analyze the workplace documents from Key Facts 1.8: Types of Workplace Documents and categorize them in one of the columns below. Be sure to give reasons to support your choices. An example has been done for you in each column. Business-Related Record Keeping Invoice Procedural and Informational Documents Work instructions Forms of Communication Memo Check your answers at the end of the module. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 79 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 10: Writing a Business Letter Objectives: ✓ Identify the main parts of a business letter ✓ Apply good practices in writing a business letter Time Required: 40-60 minutes Do you know the basic parts of a business letter? Below is a sample workplace communication. Identify each section by placing the corresponding icons in the spaces provided below. OPT 2.O Manpower Services IT Park, San Juan, Quezon City September 11, 2020 ATTENTION ALL EMPLOYEES! Due to COVID19 Pandemic, we are suspending our work on September 21-23, 2020 to give way to the City Health and Safety Department who will be conducting disinfection activities in all departments’ offices and of the entire company building. Regular work will resume on September 24, 2020 with strict observance of health protocols and with the agreed skeletal workforce reporting schedule. Please be guided accordingly. Very truly yours, The Management Salutation Closing/signature Sender’s address Date Salutation Body 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 80 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Key Facts 1.9: Business Letter Tips ✓ State the purpose clearly and up front, typically in the first sentence. ✓ Include supporting information (reasons, examples) of the main point. ✓ The final paragraph politely says the writer is waiting for a response and thanks the recipient. ✓ Use positive language. ✓ Use your business’s letter head with the logo if it exists so it looks more professional. ✓ Remember that business letters must be professional. They are like advertising. They give the reader information about the writer. If the letter has spelling or grammar mistakes, the reader will think the writer is sloppy. If the letter is confusing, the reader will think the writer is not capable. If the letter is impolite, it will give a terrible impression. Business letters must be as perfect as you can make them. ✓ Below is a sample template of a Business Letter 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 81 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Exercise: Writing a Business Communication Compose a workplace communication taking tips from what you have learned above. Suppose you are asked by your supervisor to send communications for the following company activities. Use the details below to compose your communication invites. 1. The company will conduct its annual family day • Venue: Garden Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City • Date/Time: December 22, 2020/8am to 5pm 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 82 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook 2. Participation of your company to a coastal clean-up where all employees are required to attend. Personal cleaning materials are needed. • Roxas Boulevard, Manila • October 16, 2020 – Whole day event 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 83 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Writing a Business Letter Interview an employee that writes or is supposed to write a business letter. Ask for the addressee details (name, position, company, and address), as well as the intention, purpose and main points of the letter. Write a business letter in behalf of the interviewed employee. Show your finished letter to your responded and ask for feedback. Use the space below to write the business letter. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 84 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Activity 11: Guidelines in Completing Workplace Documents and Forms Objectives: ✓ Recognize templates for some workplace documents and forms ✓ Record data and information on standard workplace forms and documents Time Required: 40- 60 minutes In the real world of work, companies and enterprises uses several documents for communicating, provide instructions and record business operations activities as part of their regulations and compliance to government laws. Some documents are developed and completed to ensure that products and services are efficiently delivered to clients while some are completed to report a meeting, incident or status of daily production or sales. In the workplace there are actually many types of document that a company or employees will encounter depending on the situation and needs. When filling in such documents or forms, it is necessary to be very careful and do it well Key Facts 1.10: Basic guidelines to follow in completing relevant workrelated documents 1. Read the form carefully. 2. Fill in all the required details. 3. Only include necessary information. 4. Write clearly and simply. 5. Check that you have completed it properly. 6. Send, submit or give it to the appropriate person, the appropriate place or recipient. Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/FHnnjk1Yj7Y Whether completing a document or form electronically or in print format, you must provide the accurate details. Inaccurate information delays tasks and can be disappointing to your superior. Say for example, you are asked to order a particular piece of equipment but you have given a wrong specification or you fail to give a 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 85 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook detailed specification. Most likely, you will lose that business. It is important then to provide all the information and details needed as the document indicates. 7 Let’s Apply: Completing Workplace Documents and Forms There are so many different workplace documents and forms. We can’t cover them all here. We can give you some good practice though filling in an application, writing an application letter, filling in a time sheet and more. Follow the scenarios below and complete the forms given as you move through the scenarios. Feel free to use your own personal information or made up information. Scenario (Part 1): A garment factory, Super Shirts Inc., recently opened in your community. The company is calling for applications for different positions such as cleaner, security guard, tailor, and packager. Based on your past experience apply for one of the positions. Fill out the job application form. Desired Position Name Address Date Available Education Employment History Company Name Duties and Responsibilities Days Available Date Telephone Number E-mail Full Time or Part Time Position Dates of Employment Company Name Duties and Responsibilities Position Dates of Employment Company Name Duties and Responsibilities Position Dates of Employment 7 TESDA (n.d.). Computer Systems Servicing NC II – Lesson 02: Complete Relevant Work Related Documents. https://gselodelmsapp.wordpress.com/online-courses-page/course-1/course-1particpate/lesson-02-complete-relevant-work-related-documents/ 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 86 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Applicant Name Contact Information Date Recipient Name Recipient Address Dear (Recipient Name), Explanation and request for job consideration. Sincerely, Applicant Name Scenario (Part 2): After a successful interview, the company decides to employ you. Congratulations! At the end of your first week at work you are required to fill out a timesheet. Record the hours you worked in the following timesheet. Employee Name and ID Day Dates: Job Code or Description of Hours Worked Work Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 87 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Scenario (Part 3): After many months of good performance, your supervisor gives you a promotion. Now you are going to spend some of your time assisting finance. Super Shirts Inc. makes 200 shirts at 200 Pesos each, 100 shorts at 300 Pesos Rwf each, and 30 hats at 100 Pesos each for a school, Math Prep Academy, in Quezon City. To receive payment for the clothes, fill out an invoice. Imagine and create some of the details. Company Name/Vendor Client Name QUANTITY Company Address: Date: Client Address: Invoice Number: DESCRIPTION UNIT PRICE TOTAL TOTAL due 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 88 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Scenario (Part 4): Next, your supervisor asks you to create a contract for a temporary janitor. Use the template and imagine some of the details. Company Name Company Address Name of Service Provider Service Agreement Number Contact Information of Service Provider Complete Address Date Telephone Number Fax Other Description of Services to be Provided (Attach Additional Information as Needed) (Name) is temporarily hired as a (position) and he/she is responsible for: 1. Task 1 2. Task 2 3. Task 3 Schedule of Services Commencement Date End Date Total Firm Fixed Price (Indicate Currency) By signing below, provider confirms: (1) Terms and Conditions Signature of Provider Date Executive Director of Organization Date 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 89 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Scenario (Part 5): Afterwards, you need to create a menu to show the different shirts and their prices. Use the template and imagine some of the different products, shirts and hats-- two varieties of each. Make up some different prices. Menu Subtopic Item 1 Item 2 Price 1 Price 2 Subtopic Item 3 Item 4 Price 3 Price 4 Scenario (Part 6): To deliver these clothes, your company provides shipping. A client, Philippines Green Co., orders 40 short sleeve shirts and 40 hats with a buckle strap. You find a shipping company, Zamboanga Ships Ltd. Create a requisition form to provide to your supervisor detailing the work. Vendor Requisitioner Item Number Ship via Quantity Ship to: Shipping Terms Units Description Requested by: Verified by: Approved by: Authorized by: Special Comments 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 90 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Scenario (Part 7): Once the requisition form is approved by the director, you have to create a purchase order with the shipping company on the agreed prices for the shipping. They have agreed to ship the items for 300 Pesos per package for 5 packages tax included. Vendor Requisitioner Item Number Ship via Description Ship to: Shipping Terms Quantity Unit Price Total Subtotal Tax Shipping Other Total Special Comments Scenario (Part 8): Once the shipping company has shipped the materials, they provide you with a receipt for their services. Create a receipt that could detail the purchase. Receipt Number Date Received From: Amount Company Company Address and Phone Number Total Received By: Notes: 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 91 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Sharing is Caring As discussed earlier, it is very important that you fill our forms accurately and neatly. Otherwise you could end up losing business! Ask someone with work experience to look at the forms you filled out above. Ask the person to give feedback on what you have done well and what needs improvement. Ask the person to share any experiences she or he has had in the workplace regarding documents and forms. Write any key lessons learned below. . Performance Criteria Checklist The Performance Criteria Checklist is an opportunity for you to assess your learning outcomes in the session and know how well you did in doing the activities in this session. You will speak to your facilitator to: 1. Share your experiences in completing the session 2. Discuss your development and progress towards the intended skills 3. Plan how you will move forward to continue making progress in the module 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 92 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Conduct a quick self-assessment and answer the table below. Statements Did you… Please check YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if you haven't shown it or cannot do it yet YES NO 1. Identify workplace documents and forms? 2. Categorize workplace documents and forms into business-related record keeping procedural and informational documents, and forms of communication? 3. Identify the main parts of a business letter? 4. Apply good practices in writing a business letter? 5. Recognize templates for some workplace documents and forms? 6. Record data and information on standard workplace forms and documents? Guide to the Learner and Facilitator’s Discussion: Topics to discuss during the Learning Check: 1. Parts of the module that were the easiest to answer/do. 2. Parts of the module that were the hardest to answer/do. 3. Parts of the module that need further clarification or explanation. 4. Additional support needed by the learner from the facilitator. 5. Review and check of the learner’s answers and outputs for the session. 6. Feedback on the learner’s performance in terms of the following: mastery of content, skills development, and pace in answering the module. 7. Plans for how the learner will move forward with the module. 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 93 Module 1: Receiving and Responding to Workplace Communication (NC I) Learner’s Handbook Session 3 – Writing Space Use this space to complete any of the written assignments above or write any thoughts or ideas that have come to mind on identifying and using workplace documents and forms. Congratulations! You can now move to the review and assessment! 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 94 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Session 4: Review & Assessment Activity 12: Module 1 Review and Application and Post-Module Learner’s Reflection Objectives: ✓ State the main topics presented during the module ✓ Reflect on their performance regarding participating in workplace communication by identifying their strengths, challenges and what they can do to address their challenges ✓ Perform a role-play demonstrating communication skills ✓ Share learning assessment results with facilitator/trainer Recommended Time: 45-60 minutes Reflect on what you have learned from Module 1 regarding obtaining and conveying workplace information, following workplace instructions and completing work-related documents. Jot down your answers to the questions below in the spaces provided. Learning: Share 2 main things you learned about participating in workplace communications in Module 1. 1. 2. Strength: Share 2 strengths that you think you have in workplace communication. 1. 2. Weakness: Share 2 weaknesses that you think you have in communication that you can improve in the future. 1. 2. Challenges: Share 2 things that you find very challenging in effective communication. 1. 2. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 95 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Let’s Apply: Performance Task – Receiving and Responding to Instructions 1. Role play the following scenario with a partner or your instructor. Exhibit exceptional communication skills from the previous exercises. Scenario: Your boss calls you into his office. He tells you that it is your turn to close the office and there are numerous tasks you must complete. He hands you a written list and says you need to make sure you have accomplished the following before leaving. The tasks are to lock all of the doors and windows, turn off all of the lights, switch off the power outlets, and activate the alarm. You get started on the tasks. When you reach the alarm, you realize you are not sure how to enter the code to activate it. You see the boss is still in his office… 2. Check (✓) yes if you use the standard or no if you do not. Write a comment to explain. Receiving and Interpreting Instructions Observation Form Standards Yes No Comments Actively listened Asked questions for clarifications Used encouraging words alongside nonverbal gestures Paraphrased the message communicated in own words Summarized/made an overview of the main points or issues raised Took notes of instructions Checked things off to make sure he/she doesn’t miss anything Responded with a good attitude Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 96 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Post-Module Learner’s Reflection: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II Level) End-of-Module Skills Check Now that you have reached the end of the module, let us see if you are able to develop the necessary skills for Participating in Workplace Communication. Conduct a self-assessment and answer the table below. Statements on my experience, knowledge, skills and abilities / Mga pahayag tungkol sa aking kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan I can… / Kaya ko nang… Identify modes and media of communication / Matukoy ang iba’t ibang paraan ng pakikipagkomunikasyon. Check that information to be given or received is accurate and reliable / Masuri kung ang impormasyong binigay o tinanggap ay totoo, tama at katiwa-tiwala. Identify ways in which to effectively receive information / Matukoy ang mga paraan ng mabisang pagtanggap ng impormasyon. Demonstrate ways in which to effectively receive information / Maipakita ang mga paraan ng mabisang pagtanggap ng impormasyon Identify strategies to effectively convey messages and information for different situations in the workplace / Matukoy ang mga paraan upang mabisang makapagbigay ng mensahe at impormasyon sa iba’t ibang sitwasyon sa trabaho. Use workplace behaviors and attitudes that will help you effectively give and receive information / Gumamit ng mga angkop na galaw at pag-uugali sa trabaho upang mabisang makapagbigay at makatanggap ng impormasyon. Prepare for meetings that will help you effectively give and receive information / Makapaghanda sa pagpupulong upang mabisang makatanggap at makapagbigay ng impormasyon Circle YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if not / Bilugan ang OO kung naipakita o nagawa mo na ang mga pahayag, HINDI kung hindi pa naipakita o nagawa Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 97 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Statements on my experience, knowledge, skills and abilities / Mga pahayag tungkol sa aking kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan I can… / Kaya ko nang… Describe different ways of storing communication and information / Mailarawan ang iba’t ibang paraan sa pagtatago ng impormasyon at komunikasyon Identify and respect the lines of communication in the workplace / Matukoy at marespeto ang linya ng komunikasyon sa trabaho. Apply strategies that will help you understand written and visual instructions / Makagamit ng mga estratehiya na makatutulong na intindihin ang mga pasulat at paguhit na panuto. Practice steps to interpreting and carrying out instructions following a meeting / Masubukan ang mga hakbang upang intindihin at gawin ang panuto matapos ang pagpupulong Seek clarification when instructions are not understood / Humingi ng paglilinaw sa mga panutong hindi naintindihan Provide feedback to supervisor on instructions and tasks to be carried out / Makagbigay ng feedback sa bisor sa mga panuto at gawaing kailangang gawin Identify rights and responsibilities of employers and employees / Matukoy ang mga karapatan at tungkulin ng isang empleyado at bisor or may-ari Develop an awareness of the conditions of employment and speak with a supervisor when the conditions are not being met / Maunawaan ang mga kondisyon sa trabaho at kumausap ng bisor kung sakaling hindi natutupad ang mga ito Identify workplace documents and forms / Matukoy ang mga dokumento para sa trabaho Categorize workplace documents and forms into business-related record keeping procedural and informational documents, and forms of communication / Maigrupo ang mga dokumento ayon sa kanilang uri. Learner’s Handbook Circle YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if not / Bilugan ang OO kung naipakita o nagawa mo na ang mga pahayag, HINDI kung hindi pa naipakita o nagawa Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 98 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Statements on my experience, knowledge, skills and abilities / Mga pahayag tungkol sa aking kaalaman, kasanayan at kakayahan I can… / Kaya ko nang… Identify the main parts of a business letter / Matukoy ang iba’t ibang bahagi ng liham pangkalakal Apply good practices in writing a business letter / Magamit ang mabisang hakbang tungo sa pagsusulat ng mahusay na liham pangkalakal Recognize templates for some workplace documents and forms / Matukoy ang mga templates para sa ilang dokumento sa trabaho Record data and information on standard workplace forms and documents / Maisulat at maitago ang impormasyon at datos gamit ang dokumentong nakasunod sa pamantayan ng trabaho Obtain and convey workplace information / Makakuha at makapagbigay ng impormasyon mula sa trabaho Perform duties following workplace instructions / Maisagawa ang mga tungkulin alinsunod sa panuto sa trabaho Complete relevant work-related documents / Masagutan ang mga angkop na dokumentong may kinalaman sa trabaho Learner’s Handbook Circle YES if you have shown or can do the statement, NO if not / Bilugan ang OO kung naipakita o nagawa mo na ang mga pahayag, HINDI kung hindi pa naipakita o nagawa Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Yes Oo No Hindi Look at your answers, were there boxes where you circled No? If there are, go back to the activities in the module that will help you gain the skill identified in the statement. You can also reach out to your facilitator/trainer to provide you with guidance on what activities you can do in order to master the skill. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 99 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Activity 13: End-of-Module Assessment Objectives: ✓ Correctly answer the questions pertaining to the concepts discussed in the module Recommended Time: 15-30 minutes End-of-Module Assessment Congratulations for finishing Module 1: Communication- Participating in Workplace Communication for National Certificate Level II! At the end of every module you will take a short assessment to see how much you have learned. It will help you and your teacher identify the knowledge and skills you know and what still needs reinforcing. The results will not affect your ability to continue in the program. Structure of the Assessment: It has a total of 10 questions. Some questions are multiple choice and some questions are true or false. You should choose only ONE answer for each question. Once you have finished answering the questions, review the answers found at the end and note down any questions to ask your instructor. Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication Circle an answer for each statement. English Tagalog 1. When you are discussing an issue at work with a co-worker and she or he is saying something that you do not agree with, you: 1. Kapag may tinatalakay kang usapin sa isang katrabaho at hindi ka sumasangayon sa sinasabi niya, dapat: a. Interrupt your co-worker to let him or her know you disagree b. Shake your head in disagreement to let your co-worker know how you feel c. Try to think about something else until your co-worker stops talking d. Are aware of your own feelings but listen to what your co-worker has to say before responding e. All of the above a. Singitan mo ang katrabaho mo para ipaalam sa kaniyang hindi ka sumasang-ayon b. Umiling ka para ipaalam sa katrabaho ang iyong damdamin c. Subukang mag-isip tungkol sa ibang bagay hanggang sa tumigil magsalita ang iyong katrabaho d. Alam mo kung ano ang damdamin mo, pero makikinig sa sinasabi ng iyong katrabaho bago ka magsalita e. Lahat ng nabanggit Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 100 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook English Tagalog 2. When someone else is speaking, you should give non-verbal communication cues to show that you understand. 2. Kapag may nagsasalita, dapat magpakita ka ng mga non-verbal communication cues para ipakitang naiintindihan mo. a. True b. False 3. When speaking to a group of people, it is important to: a. b. c. d. Stay focused on the topic at hand Maintain good eye contact Be well informed on the topic Present information in a logical, flowing way e. All of the above 4. Accuracy is based on your opinion not on facts a. True b. False 5. In communication, the source of information are identified depending on the workplace or client’s requirements. a. True b. False 6. In conveying an information, the following are important to consider except for; a. The information is verified and found in the company’s standard manual b. Ensure that the information is written and approved by the management. a. Tama b. Mali 3. Kapag nagsasalita sa isang grupo ng tao, mahalagang: a. Manatiling nakatuon sa paksang tinatalakay b. Tumingin sa mata ng mga kinakausap c. Maging maalam sa paksang tinatalakay d. Itanghal ang impormasyon sa isang lohikal at dumadaloy na paraan e. Lahat ng nabanggit 4. Kawastuhan ng impormasyon ay naaayon sa iyong opinion at hindi sa katotohanan a. Tama b. Mali 5. Sa komunikasyon, ang pagkuhanan ng gagamiting impormasyon ay nakasalalay sa kung anong pangangailangan ng lugar ng pinagtrabahuhan o sa pangangalaingan ng customer. a. Tama b. Mali 6. Sa pagbibigay ng impormasyon, nararapat lamang na isa alang-alang ang mga sumusunod maliban sa; a. Ang impormasyon ay beripikado at nakikita sa manwal ng kompanya. b. Ang impormasyon ay dapat nakasulat at aprubado ng namamahala. c. Ito ay base sa mga sinasabi ng mga nakakatandang manggagawa ng kompanya. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 101 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook English c. Based your information from your co-worker who has been working in the company for years already. d. Information is up-to-date Tagalog d. Ang impormasyon ay dapat napapanahon. 7. In order to improve your communication skills in workplace meeting, the following should be observed, except for; a. Making yourself ready before the meeting. b. Be at the meeting earlier c. Make your presence known by raising irrelevant issues and share your thoughts anytime you like. d. Organize your thoughts and share confidently when ready 7. Upang mapaunlad ang sariling kakayahan sa pakikipag-usap, ang sumusunod ay dapat obserbahan, maliban sa; a. Ihanda ang sarili bago pa man ang pulong b. Dumating ng mas maaga bago pa man magsisimula ang pagpupulong c. Ipaalam ang iyong presensya sa pamamagitan ng pagbabahagi ng isyu na walang kaugnayan sa meeting and magbahagi ng sariling opinion kung kalian mo gusto. d. Organisahin ang iyong mga ideya at ibahagi ng walang pag alinlangan kung ikaw ay handa na. 8. The advantage of electronic filing 8. Ang kalamangan ng electronic filing system than the manual storage system system kaysa sa manual storage system are the following, except for; ay ang sumusunod, maliban sa; a. Information can be easily accessed a. Ang mga impormasyon ay madaling b. Files are easily updated and edited ma-access c. It needs more storage equipment b. Mga file ay madaling ma-update at d. Files are safer and are accessible ma-edit anytime and anywhere c. Kailangan ng mas maraming kagamitang paglagyan ng mga dokyumento d. Mga file ay ligtas at magagamit anumang oras at kahit saan man. 9. When you do not fully understand instructions given to you by your supervisor at work, you: a. Nod your head in agreement so you do not waste your supervisor’s time b. Assume you will figure it on your own c. Ask your supervisor to repeat the instructions so you are clear on what you need to do 9. Kapag hindi mo lubusang naiintindihan ang sinasabi ng iyong supervisor sa trabaho: a. Tatango ka sa pagsang-ayon para hindi masayang ang oras ng iyong supervisor b. Umasang maiintindihan mo rin iyon mag-isa Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 102 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) English d. Ask a co-worker what she or he thinks you are supposed to do e. All of the above 10. When completing a work-related document: a. Only include necessary information b. Write clearly and simply c. Fill in all the required details d. Check that you have completed it properly e. All of the above Learner’s Handbook Tagalog c. Hilingin sa supervisor mo na ulitin ang mga sinasabi niya para malinaw sa iyo ang dapat mong gawin d. Tanungin ang isang katrabaho kung ano sa tingin niya ang dapat mong gawin e. Lahat ng nabanggit 10. Sa pagkompleto ng dokyumento a. Isama lamang ang kailangan na impormasyon b. Isulat ng malinaw at simple c. Pil-apan ang mga kailangan detalye d. Suriin kung wasto ang pagkakakompleto e. Lahat ng nabanggit Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 103 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Key to Correction Activity 2 – Mode of Communication Examples of Media of Communication Verbal: through speaking (or sign language • Face to face meeting for the deaf) • phone • video conference or other virtual meeting • presentations • Interview • Speech • Announcements • Casual conversation Nonverbal: information that is conveyed • Facial expression without speaking but with the body • Gestures • Posture • Body language • Eye contact • Personal space • Physical appearance Written: information is received conveyed through written language or • • • • • • • • • • • Visual: information that is conveyed or • received through graphics • • • • Email Letters Memo Newsletter Newspaper Magazines Notes Text message Books/manuals/brochures On-line database Record books Photograph Graphs Charts Pictures Posters Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 104 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook Activity 6 – Example of the directions one could provide: 1. Protect or lubricate your hands. Be clean so you do not contaminate the cow’s utters with bacteria. 2. Rub each teat three to four times to remove the dirt or bacteria. Make sure not to put this debris in the bucket where you put the milk. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 105 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook 3. Place a bucket underneath the udder to catch the milk. 4. Sit or squat next to the cow’s right side. Move very close to the cow. 5. Wrap your hand around two teats. Grip the teats so that your palm is filled by the teat. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 106 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook 6. Squeeze the teats. Make sure you squeeze from the base. 7. Once you have finished with one teat, switch to another teat. Activity 8 – Send From josephsoledad@smartfiles.org To… helenreyes@smartfiles.org Cc… Subject: Re: File Update Request Dear Madame Reyes, Thank you very much for your email today regarding updating the files. Please, I want to make sure that I am clear on the instructions. Would you like me to update the files before or after my colleague? I want to make sure that I am working on the right version of the file! Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 107 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Learner’s Handbook You can reach me by email or mobile phone, or we can schedule a time to meet here in the office. Thank you for your time. I am looking forwarding to updating the files with the information that I have. Sincerely yours, Joseph Soledad E To make a work agreement with the employee, agreeing on conditions, time and place E To follow up with the employee on the agreed terms W To personally perform the work in the time, place and conditions as agreed upon E To supervise and provide suitable conditions of work so workers have security, health and dignity E To honor terms of payment W To follow the instructions of the worker’s boss E To safeguard standards, staff and environment E To register and pay into social security for the employee E To take care of the well‐being of staff and qualified dependents (e.g. wife/husband, children) W To avoid any issues or problems at the workplace that will endanger the worker or his/her colleagues E To agree on a performance contract W To follow the rules at work Activity 9 – Business-Related Record Keeping Invoice Receipt Costing sheet Quotation form Invoice Procedural and Informational documents Work instructions User guide Leave request forms Notice Meeting minutes Forms of Communication Memo Circular (flier) E-mail messages Agenda Signs Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 108 Module 1: Participating in Workplace Communication (NC II) Business-Related Record Keeping Project report Purchase order Procedural and Informational documents Contract Accident and emergency Requisition form Tools and equipment safe operating Best practice customer service Regulation Quality assurance Job time sheet Policy Shift report Progress record Learner’s Handbook Forms of Communication Notice Graphics (also can be procedural and informational) Letter Congratulations! You have completed the Module on Communication NC II Level – Participating in Workplace Communication! You are now ready to conquer the next module on Collaboration and Teamwork. Work Readiness Modules on 21st Century Skills | USAID Opportunity 2.0 Program| Philippines Page 109