Date of Award

12-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Alexa Dare

Second Advisor

Dr. Cheryl Coan

Abstract

Teachers, as leaders and facilitators in the classroom, not only disseminate information, but ultimately propagate and perpetuate ideologies that shape their students' cognitive world. However, with the enrollment of minority students increasing in the United States, greater challenges are encountered as teachers struggle to promote advocacy, respect, and understanding in the classroom. Navigating the relationally ambiguous or uncertain requires certain cognitive tools. The Uncertainty Management Theory which encompasses relational mindfulness and empathy assists individuals in developing the communicative skills necessary to fortify relational contingencies. This thesis explores the communicative methods teachers use to create culturally empathic environments within the academic setting. To accomplish this, qualitative interviews were conducted with ten, communication studies professors across the nation. Following the interviews, a thematic analysis was then conducted which revealed six emergent themes relative to the communicative behaviors and practices educators employ in creating culturally empathic environments. The results of this study provide insight as to how teachers respond to diversity and social challenges, using communicative practices that enhance empathic connections with students and create culturally pluralistic environments.

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