Speaking Strategies

Speaking up in classes, seminars and studio crits is an important part of your RISD education. In determining final grades, many instructors take into consideration how often a student speaks up. Some instructors call on students to respond but most do not, relying instead on the student to do so without prompting. However, for international students unfamiliar with instructor expectations and socio-cultural dynamics of Western classrooms, this can pose problems. Specifically, when should I speak up? And how do I do so?  Moreover, if my English language skills are not that strong, will my classmates and instructors think that what I’m saying is overly simplistic, or that I’m merely repeating what someone else has already said? In most situations, even though you may think others are expecting you to join in, few people really notice or care if you do or don’t, or whether or not you said the “right” thing (whatever that may be)—in fact, they’re most likely thinking about what to say themselves. After all, speaking up in front of one’s peers can be stressful to ANYONE (surveys are fond of quoting respondents who say they are more afraid of speaking in public than of dying!). Remember, it’s okay to take your time, okay to listen to others first as well as to your “inner voice.” Formulate your ideas, then speak when you’re ready to.

WHEN DO I SPEAK UP?

In any academic or social setting, there are invariably some who are more naturally verbose than others and who tend to dominate the conversation. At RISD, this tends to be native English speakers who are not only fluent but also more familiar with unwritten socio-linguistic “conventions” or codes that govern interpersonal behavior. That said, as a native speaker of another language (or multiple languages) representing a different group or culture, your classmates and instructors DO want to know what you think about a given topic. So how do you break into the conversation? First, wait until there’s a momentary pause. If you happen to speak simultaneously with someone else, make eye contact and wait—they may “concede the floor” (allow you to speak first). If so, smile, nod, and go ahead. If not, wait until there’s another pause. RISD is a language-rich environment and the pace is often lightning quick, so if the conversation has moved on to a different topic before you’ve had a chance to speak up, do so anyway: “I’d like to add something to what we were just discussing” or words to that effect. 

HOW DO I SPEAK UP?

There’s no one “correct” way or rule that governs speaking. Culture and group dynamics certainly play a role, as does individual personality. First, be a good listener. Consider what others have said and add a comment or observation of your own: “You seem to be saying ______. I like that, and it makes me think of _____.” Take brief notes (preferably by hand so you don’t appear pre-occupied with your laptop) while others are speaking so you have specific details to refer to when framing your response. Try to “think with” others, not “speak at” them.  If you’re unclear or confused about something, seek clarification by turning your comment into a question. This invites participation from others and shows that you’re open to suggestions. And, as a practical tip, don’t rush: speak clearly and loudly from the diaphragm (see our handout on “Public Speaking Principles and Tips”). Relax and be yourself!

Here are some language patterns/phrases that may prove helpful in specific situations: