Oral communication practice in groups facilitated by speaking consultants

Peer Speaking Practice Groups (PSPGs)

PSPG participants commit to a four-week block and meet weekly for 50 minutes. Each group is facilitated by one speaking consultant. Topics can be negotiated or preset by the facilitator. Additional topics can be brought up during weekly sessions. It is possible for certain topics to be covered in different PSPGs, but the situation may be different. For example, making small talk can be for general day-to-day conversations, or it can be for networking purposes at an academic conference.

GROUP | FACILITATOR | THEMES DATES AND TIMES MODE | LOCATION
Group 1 Erik | General Themes Mondays 4:10 -5:00 p.m. | September 9, 16, 23, 30 Online | WebEx (Sign up for link.)
Group 2 Erik | General Themes Tuesdays 4:10 - 5:00 p.m. | September 3, 10, 17, 24 In Person | Pearson 3119
Group 3 Erik | Interpersonal Communication Wednesdays 2:10 - 3:00 p.m. | September 4, 11, 18, 25 In Person | Student Innovation 2260 (Only September 4), then Student Innovation 1118

These topics are most suitable for international students who want to practice their English speaking skills in different situations and increase their knowledge about cultural differences. Generally, the themes are negotiated by participants and facilitators during the first session, but any additional topics can be brought up during the group meetings. Possible topics include: making general conversation, living in the US, discussing hot or popular issues, sharing personal cultural experiences, practicing presentation skills, using politeness strategies, etc.

These topics are most suitable for both domestic and international students who want to practice their interpersonal communication skills in different situations and increase their confidence in one-on-one interactions with others. Generally, the themes are preset by the facilitator, but any additional topics or scenarios can be brought up during the group meetings. Possible topics include: making small talk, preparing for a difficult conversation (e.g., with a major professor/labmate/roommate/landlord), resolving conflicts, using open or closed statements, avoiding misunderstandings, etc.