SOCIAL INTERACTION

The goal

Students will work well with others to achieve objectives, manage conflict and build relationships. They actively engage in one-on-one communication and in small- and large-group discussion and effectively use conflict management skills.

Why this is important

Social interaction has changed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Much of the work that used to be done through group and face-to-face interactions has shifted to online meetings and text messaging. The methods may have changed, but the ability to build relationships, deepen understanding, manage conflict and reach decisions hasn’t.

The Results

Nearly all students said they frequently or moderately use the 8 Abilities at work, home or in their communities.

60% FREQUENTLY 26% MODERATELY

“Learning social interaction taught me how to understand different viewpoints and take them into account when deciding what is best for a situation. This also helped me become more open-minded with everyone around me as we all come from different backgrounds, which is what makes us distinctive individuals.”

— Mariana Lopez-Mireles CLASS OF 2025

“Alverno taught me to honor that voice within, that my value of relationship-building through honest interactions is the best approach for me and will always serve as a guide no matter the situation or circumstances.”

— Susan Berna ‘95

In the survey, almost all felt Alverno’s 8 Abilities and performance-based assessment were more rigorous, more motivating, and held them more accountable than traditional letter-grading systems.