Module 5: Communication and Interpersonal Skill

Course Description

The “Communication and Interpersonal Skills (Inter-departmental Collaboration)” module provides an essential framework to improve communication and collaboration across different departments within the criminal justice system. In environments where various teams interact, effective communication and interpersonal skills are key to achieving efficient workflows, resolving conflicts, and ensuring smooth operational practices. 

This module focuses on developing a deeper understanding of the dynamics of inter-departmental collaboration, addressing communication barriers, and promoting the skills needed to foster positive and constructive relationships across teams. Through practical exercises, role-plays, and case studies, we will examine how these competencies can be applied in your daily work, enhancing cross-departmental cooperation and enabling more cohesive teamwork in correctional settings. 

The aim is to equip you with tools and strategies to overcome communication challenges, engage in more effective dialogues, and contribute to problem-solving processes across departments. The module also emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, and establishing workflows that facilitate collaboration. By integrating these approaches, participants will not only improve their professional relationships but also contribute to a more cooperative and efficient work environment.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, learners will be able to:

  1. Recall the essential components of effective inter-departmental collaboration. 
  2. Describe the benefits of collaboration across teams in correctional education.
  3. Identify common barriers to effective communication in correctional settings. 
  4. Analyze case studies to determine best practices for resolving inter-departmental conflicts. 
  5. Evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies in facilitating team-based problem-solving. 
  6. Create a collaborative workflow plan to address a complex educational need.