Communication and sharing of ideas are central to our lives. Take a little bit of time to learn more about one of the digital spaces where ideas are shared: TED conferences. In its own words, TED is a nonprofit “devoted to ideas worth spreading.” World-famous wildly talented artists, scientists, and inventors share their thought-provoking ideas in short multimedia presentations.

Challenge your own thoughts on communication by watching a few videos. Here are some recommendations:

• Julian Treasure, a leading sound expert whose work focuses in transforming communication, health, productivity and relationships through mastery of speaking and listening, shares advice about ways to listen better.
  http://www.ted.com/talks/julian_treasure_5_ways_to_listen_better

• Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist known for her research on stereotyping and discrimination, emotions, power, and nonverbal behavior, gives a talk on the significance of body language.
  http://www.ted.com/talks/amy_cuddy_your_body_language_shapes_who_you_are

• Laura Trice, a therapist and coach, talks about the significance of saying “Thank you”.
  http://www.ted.com/talks/laura_trice_suggests_we_all_say_thank_you

• Brené Brown, a professor and researcher who studies human connection, gives a talk entitled “The Power of Vulnerability.”
  http://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability

• You can also find 8 videos compiled under the playlist “Listen up.”
  http://www.ted.com/playlists/92/listen_up

After you have watched a few videos, answer these questions.

1. What did you learn about communication?
2. What did you learn about your own communication?
3. What did you learn about communication in others?
4. Did any of the information you learned challenge any of your preconceived notions about communication?