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1.    Empathetic communication: why it matters. 

 

Open resource: short university article.

 https://imagine.jhu.edu/blog/2024/10/15/empathetic-communication-matters/

Why it is interesting for you?

This short university article explores how empathy shapes communication in everyday situations.

  • It shows that communication is not only about speaking, but also about listening and intention.
  • It connects empathy with building meaningful interactions and understanding others.

As you read, reflect:
How does empathy influence the way people experience an interaction?

 

2.    Communication and cognitive accessibility (plain language). 

 

Open resource: practical guide.

https://www.cu.edu/printpdf/coleman/resources/plain-language/using-plain-language-support-individuals-cognitive-disabilities

Why it is interesting for you?

This guide focuses on how to adapt communication so that it can be understood by people with different cognitive and learning needs.

  • It highlights the importance of using clear, direct language and avoiding jargon or complex vocabulary.
  • It shows how breaking information into smaller parts (short sentences, structured sections) helps reduce cognitive load and makes content easier to follow.
  • It emphasises that organisation, consistency and clarity are key to helping people understand and stay engaged.

Making communication easier to understand is not only about language. It also shapes interaction (who can follow, ask or participate) and the environment (how accessible a situation feels).

As you read, reflect:
What makes it easier for you to understand and stay engaged in a conversation or explanation?

 

3.    Short video: empathy in communication. 

 

Open resource: video (2–3 minutes).

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Evwgu369Jw

Why it is interesting for you?

This short animated video explains empathy through simple everyday situations and contrasts it with sympathy.

  • It shows how empathy creates connection by listening and acknowledging how others feel.
  • It highlights that trying to “fix” or minimise someone’s experience can unintentionally distance communication.

As you watch, reflect:
What small differences in response can make communication feel more open or more distant?