Recommended Resources

We have collected this list of communication resources for use by the MIT community. We refer to these resources frequently in our work with clients at the Institute. We hope you'll enjoy them.

Books and Articles

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most
Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, Sheila Heen, Roger Fisher
This book was developed from ten years of work at the Harvard Negotiation Project. Written to help professionals, parents, teachers, government officials, corporations and communities, Difficult Conversations offers a concrete, step-by-step approach to preparing for and conducting your most challenging conversations.

The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook: Strategies and Tools for Building a Learning Organization
Peter M. Senge, et al
This book is a compendium of articles, case studies and exercises for developing a learning organization. Key to the creation and maintenance of a learning organization is interpersonal communication skills, which are highlighted throughout the book.

Powerful Conversations: How High Impact Leaders Communicate
Phil Harkins
Powerful Conversations is aimed at maximizing the impact of your communications. Specific guidelines show you how to personalize Harkins’ program to your own unique style and situation. Examples of Powerful Conversation techniques in action, case studies, and self-tests help you analyze your own conversational style.

School and Educational Support

Is your child struggling (or excelling) in elementary, middle, or high school? Looking for guidance on how to support your child’s academic success? Connect with an expert education advisor, who can help you navigate your child's school and educational experience.