Waypoint 1

Communication was most impactful when we were writing the algorithm for another group to build our artifact because without good instructions, they were confused as to what to do, where to cut, where to tape the ears and mouth and eyes, what to do with the popsicle sticks, etc. It did not help that we did not finish writing the algorithm before it was time to have the group test it out. This made the group not able to make their artifact the same as ours because they did not have the instructions on how to do it. Bad instructions or lack of communication led to them not being able to accomplish the task well. 

When I was learning/ receiving information, I noticed that there are always follow up questions and that I never understand the information the first time I am hearing it. When I am teaching / providing information, I notice that I try to tailor what I am explaining to the person I am talking to and assume their knowledge level. For example, if I was trying to explain to my mother what cellular automata was and how to make it, I would probably go more in depth on loops and coding languages than I would if I was talking to a CS graduate, because my mother does not know anything about programming (no hate to my mother! Love you Mom!). I also use body language and facial expressions to gauge if they understand me or not. For example if their eyebrows are knitted together and they are frowning, I might go into more detail about what I am currently explaining, but if they are more relaxed or they have a face of understanding, I might skip over some of the finer details. 

Some features of strong communication skills are knowledge or mastery of what you are talking about to be able to tell others the right information and to answer any questions they might have, being able to read body language to tell if someone is not understanding, feeling confident speaking to others, and being friendly/ being able to relate to their learning experience / not making the learner feel dumb when they ask follow up questions.