Skill Development Activity - 3

Title of the Event: Skill Development Programme on Active Listening

Organised by: First Year MSW Students

Department of Social Work

Class: First Year M.S.W. Students

Date: 27-01-2026

Time: 1.30 pm – 2.30 pm

Introduction

The Department of Social Work organized a Skill Development Programme on “Active Listening”, conducted by the First Year MSW students, with the objective of enhancing essential communication skills required for effective social work practice. Active listening is a core professional competency for social workers, enabling meaningful engagement, empathy, and accurate understanding of client concerns.

Objectives of the Programme

• To understand the concept and importance of active listening

• To develop effective listening skills among MSW students

• To enhance empathy, attentiveness, and interpersonal communication

• To improve professional competence in client–worker interactions

Programme Details

The programme began with a brief introduction highlighting the relevance of active listening in social work practice, counseling, community work, and professional relationships. The activity is conducted by Shashank and Chaithanya.The student facilitators explained key components of active listening such as:

• Paying full attention

• Maintaining eye contact

• Avoiding interruptions

• Reflective responses

• Empathy and non-verbal cues

Interactive methods such as role plays, group discussions, demonstrations, and situational exercises were used to help participants understand and practice active listening skills in real-life social work scenarios.

Activities Conducted

• Ice-breaking session to build rapport

• Role-play demonstrations on good and poor listening

• Group discussion on listening barriers

• Practical exercises on reflective listening

• Feedback and experience sharing

Participants actively engaged in all activities and reflected on how active listening improves professional effectiveness and client trust.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the programme, participants were able to:

• Understand the importance of active listening in social work practice

• Identify common barriers to effective listening

• Apply active listening techniques in professional and personal settings

• Develop empathy and communication confidence

Student Participation

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the students. The peer-led approach encouraged open interaction, mutual learning, and skill-based understanding. The session was interactive, practical, and learner-centered.