Pragmatic is an approach to decision-making and problem-solving that prioritizes practicality over idealism. It involves considering what will actually be achieved or accomplished rather than focusing on ideals, dreams, and expectations. Embracing pragmatic thinking can benefit both our personal and professional lives, helping us take concrete steps to achieve goals and get results.
Pragmatism is an epistemological and philosophical school of thought that views knowledge as based on experience. It views each person’s perceptions as unique, but much of that knowledge is shared and based on social experiences (Morgan 2014a). Pragmatism is also known as American pragmatism, since many of its proponents were from the United States.
People who embrace a pragmatic mindset tend to be more successful than those that are more idealistic. They are efficient in their problem-solving, identifying actions they can take to achieve tangible outcomes and avoiding getting bogged down in abstract theories. For example, a pragmatist would know that traffic can be unpredictable, so they leave early when heading to the airport.
Likewise, a business that uses a pragmatic marketing strategy focuses on what customers want and need to be successful. They identify what their customers value most, and then create a product that is aligned with those values. They also focus on establishing clear customer communication to foster transparency and build trust.
SLPs can promote pragmatic skills in the classroom by teaching students to communicate their needs and thoughts clearly, use appropriate body language, and interpret and understand social cues. Explicit teaching and modeling of these skills can be done through role-playing, group activities, and collaborative tasks. Technology and digital tools can also be used to support pragmatic skill development through visual models, social story prompts, and interactive practice opportunities.
Students with strong pragmatic skills are better able to express themselves in the classroom, which can lead to increased participation and engagement. They can also build relationships with their peers and teachers, fostering a positive learning environment. In contrast, those with weak pragmatic skills may struggle to communicate their needs and feelings in the classroom, which can lead to frustration and difficulty building relationships.
In the field of speech therapy, there are several pragmatics assessments that can be used to monitor student progress in pragmatic skills. Informal assessment tools include observation checklists and anecdotal records, while formal assessment tools include standardized tests and language samples. However, it is important to remember that pragmatic assessment is a dynamic process, and as a result, the most effective pragmatic measures are constantly evolving (Carston 2005).
