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Self-Awareness

Social Rules

Discover the four social rules that foster a supportive learning environment.

The Recurse
Sep 19, 2013 • 5 min read
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Intermediate
Belonging
Clear Communication
Collaboration Norms
Inclusive Culture Building
Interpersonal Communication
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Summary

The text outlines four social rules designed to foster a supportive and friendly environment in programming communities. These rules—no well-actually’s, no feigned surprise, no backseat driving, and no subtle -isms—aim to reduce behaviors that can discourage learning and collaboration. They complement self-directives to help individuals work at the edge of their abilities safely. The rules are not punitive but encourage open communication and growth. Readers are motivated to apply these principles to enhance their professional environments.

Takeaways

  • Avoid correcting others unnecessarily to maintain conversation flow.
  • Be aware of subtle biases that can make others feel unwelcome.
  • Offer advice only when actively engaged in the conversation.
  • Reacting with surprise to a lack of knowledge can discourage learning.
  • The rules are meant to foster a supportive learning environment, not to punish.

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