Final Week: Question 1

Reading Chapter 13, methods of discovery, I found many of the research methods interesting. The method I found most interesting in the table 13.3 would be the ethnography form of research. I think research using this method would have a successful outcome seeing that observations in a natural setting would seem to gather the least biased results. For example, many documentary film makers want to keep an environment of their subjects as natural as possible. This keeps the story or idea of the film in it's purist form. The filmmakers may not go "under cover" as the text suggests for this method of research. But it is very important for most directors to avoid using their own input or opinion within their films. As a result, the conclusions that arise from each person or observation are most rewarding. I would probably use this method personally with my own research and experiments. As opposed to surveys or experimental research methods, which tend to have staged or forced aspects to them, the ethnography method would probably be most successful in answering many research questions.

Final Week Discussion Question 2

I would have to say that the concepts I've found most interesting over the course of this semester would have to be interpersonal communication concepts. The Interpersonal chapter of our textbook overall had some very insightful topics that really expanded my perspectives with communication and relationships. Many of the ideas and theories such as Ducks theory gave me a better understanding of how people form and maintain relationships. The different types of relationship patterns of rigid complimentary pattern, competitive symmetry, and submissive symmetry gave me a better understanding of people in my life and how they function using these various patterns in their relationships. Using honest and effective communication in relationships is something that I've always tried to maintain in my life, and reading this chapter was reassuring and motivating for me to keep expanding and progressing with my communication skills. I also enjoyed the intercultural communication chapter of the text as I am fascinated with other ways of life. I have a great aspiration to do a lot of traveling and I thought the concepts from this chapter provided me with a good outlook on communication with other cultures. There's always plenty of room for improvement when it comes to communication, but I feel that overall the textbook provided me with a good preview and understanding of whats to come for completing my communications major. This was my first communication class along with a public speaking course this semester, and with the completion of both these courses I'm really excited to keep moving forward.

Question 3:Ch 11 Topic

I enjoyed reading the end of chapter 11, which is the section concerning the ethical issues with media and how to become a more responsible communicator. Personally I've had an interest in the film industry for a while, especially with documentary film making. I believe that in taking such a direction as a career would definitely be successful if my foundation was in communication. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the ethical issues of truth, accuracy, and fairness when it comes to dealing with the media. This last section of the chapter reminds everyone to be mindful of gender and race equality, avoid stereotyping, and check facts. The book also talks about the importance of expanding on media intake. Looking into new sources and being open to challenging ourselves with complexity in media is essential for evolving. And the last point that I found most interesting was American's tendencies to consume products even when they find them offensive. The magazine, National Inquirer, for example, is still being published because people buy it. So it's silly to blame media for everything, when we continue to "egg them on" so to speak. Overall this chapter brought a lot of great points to my awareness.

Q 2: Marshall McLuhan

I do agree with Marshall McLuhan's concept that "the medium is the message." In other words I believe he is basically saying without the "sender" nothing can be received. I look at each form of media as a sender, and each and every viewer as the receiver. The information is what the individual is receiving, and that is the message within each form of medium. What McLuhan is referring to about "cool medium" makes me think of that "image" of television that many people in America strive so desperately to be like. The next "American Idol" television show for example, goes through millions of people each year. It's the search for that perfect, effortless look, presence, and sound. In the midst of it, we watch sooo many different types of people try to fulfill this criteria, or at least try to get their 15 minutes of fame, when really, someone should have done them a favor and tell them that they might want to head in a different direction. Television is really such a distanced medium from the viewer, especially today. And yet so many people form some sort of relationship with either the practice of watching it or even a vicarious and somehow life fulfilling relationship with people they will never meet i.e. celebrities. I think it is important to stay connected with the media in order to stay updated on current events and gain information from reliable sources. Unfortunately, as media tends to become more and more skewed, it is very important to look to the most credible sources, and still be discerning of what messages are most truthful and logical. In regards to television as a cool medium, it's important to look at who keeps their credibility, and gives fact, instead of just "looks nice on tv." This way we avoid the superficiality of "cool television."

Question 1:Cyberspace Peeps

I can't say that I have ever made friends with anyone over the internet. I've never participated in chat groups or anything like that before, because I usually equate chat groups with scary stories of girls getting abducted by creeps they met online. Or I think of Kip from the movie Napolean Dynamite, who "chats online with babes all day," which was hilarious in the movie but is not something that has ever been on my to do list. The closest thing I've experienced to a relationship that wasn't formed around face to face interactions would be a long distance phone relationship with a man I met and hung out with for a few hours the day before he went back to his home in Hawaii. But frankly, I find it odd and a little sad if people choose to make friends on the internet. I mean I guess if some people find it fulfilling then that's great for them. Instant messaging, skype, facebook, and other networking sites can be useful, but with people that I've actually met in person. Plus I also try to spend the least amount of time possible on the computer if I can. I just really enjoy meeting people and making friends organically and letting relationships happen on their own instead of seeking them out. Especially not electronically. It's almost like having an imaginary friend. Because who knows what that real person is even like, he or she might as well be made up.

Technology Etiquette

Talking about technology etiquette is like opening a can of worms for me. Just sitting here in front of this screen for extended periods of time drives me crazy. More importantly, addressing the over usage of technology, especially with children drives me up the wall. Not only the lack of usage but the lack of manners used in addition is something I see almost every day. Of course I'm guilty of letting that technology zombie state get a hold of me many times. But watching my little sister obsess over facebook, or seeing my 6 and 7 year old cousins fight over a ipad almost every day of vacation in Hawaii makes me nutty! When I was a kid, less than a decade ago, I was outside all the time and it was such a rare occasion that I'd ever sit in front of the computer or TV. Now this is only addressing the over usage of technology by children, not to mention the manners or lack of that comes with handling such "commodities." I've noticed numerous times theres a certain attitude and edge that arises is many children when it comes time to put down the nintendo or ipod etc. I don't think technology is bad, I just think the way it is being introduced to these younger generations is creating some unhealthy habits and and attitudes of instant gratification all the time. As a result, theres a lack of social skills and common sense manners because so many parents are filling in parenting with technology. So when I think of technology bothering me, I think mostly what repercussions will arise with these next generations growing up. Other things that bother me would mostly have to do with texting. Instances of texting that are the most rude to me is when I'm hanging out with someone who can't seem to put their damn phone down. Even if it's in a group setting and not just one on one. Unless theres an important reason or need to communicate with someone not present, I just find it silly that people can't feel satisfied engaging with who's around them in the moment. So thats enough ranting from me today haha.

Question 1: College Organization

Organizations can have a great influence on their surrounding communities. The actions each organization takes has the ability to either help or harm it's surrounding environment. This gives a great responsibility to operate in a safe, efficient and productive manner. As a result, there are many positive outcomes for each and every individual tied to the organization. A school, for example, that has a great faculty effects the motivation of each and every student whether they are aware of it or not. I've taken classes that I didn't think I would find too interesting but because my professor was enthusiastic about what they were teaching, it changed my perspective and I'd end up learning a lot. On the other hand, I've taken courses that I thought would be great, but became frustrated with how the professor taught (or didn't teach) the class. The faculty is only one element within the complex structure of a college organization. But I believe it is one of the most important elements. Every professor has the power to instruct and enlighten hundreds of students who continue on to influence their communities and environments for the rest of their lives. Therefore colleges and universities have the responsibility and obligation to hire on individuals with qualities of respectability, accountability, and inspiration.

Question 3: Feedback

I enjoyed reading the section in Chapter 6 about giving effective feedback. Especially the part addressing how it's important to avoid apologizing for your feelings. Somebody really brought it to my attention a few months back that I tended to apologize for things that weren't even my fault. I guess it became habit for me to say sorry, even when I had every right to have my certain feeling or opinion in many situations. I do believe it is important to hold myself accountable for times I legitimately mess up and need to apologize. But my friend made me realize too that if everyone said sorry all the time, it would really take away the meaning and importance of actually being sorry. In addition to this it does create a vague and confusing way of communicating with someone when you're always saying, oh sorry this and sorry that. It's important especially to stand up for what you believe and feel is right. And if you say, "I'm sorry, but I feel this way," it takes away from the power everyone deserves to have in expressing feelings. So overall I believe it's important distinguish the difference of saying sorry when its needed and expressing your feelings without guilt or an unnecessary apology.

Question 2: Filters and theories

Looking at Duck's theory, I can definitely apply it to the way I filter relationships with people. Recently I felt like I almost had dating down to a science. I could tell by even around the 2nd date whether or not I wanted to spend any more time getting to know an individual. I love getting to know a variety of people, and find that my preferences in friendships and the dating world are across the board. For me it comes down to a few basic qualities. Number one is humor. Not awkward joke telling humor, but humor that reflects a person's confidence and contentment with who they are as well as their lighthearted appreciation for life. Anyone who tends to lack humor indicates to me that they are probably lacking in other qualities. If I can't laugh with someone to the point of almost peeing my pants, then I'm probably not going to waste too much of my time with them. Unattractive qualities that usually turn me off in first impressions are arrogance, lack of manners and social skills, awkward gaps in communication such as lack of attentiveness, disrespect and dishonesty. Of course nobody is perfect but I think those are plenty of good examples of what can make a person unattractive. If you asked one of my friends, they would definitely agree that I look at inner qualities more than an outer appearance. I mean snap, I've dated  men that are skinny, overweight, bald, short, black, brown, purple(ok not purple), white, 20 years older than me, etc. The list goes on. Society tends to set standards that many feel like they have to follow, and of course I've been given crap for my "off the beaten path" choices and preferences. But I've been raised to be accepting of people no matter where they're from, what they look like, and so on. What the important thing for me is that as long as people possess good hearted qualities, oh and humor, then they are worth getting to know.

Relationship patterns

Reading the interpersonal chapter, I started reflecting on examples in my life that apply to the rigid complimentary pattern, competitive symmetry, and submissive symmetry. Well of course the best example of a rigid complimentary pattern would be my relationship with my parents. I'm 19 and the oldest of 2 girls, with parents that are great and very supportive, but at the same time, are still familiarizing themselves with their firstborn growing up and moving forward solo in life. So this example is one that is rather difficult to change, and part of it will never change, since they will always be my parents. But at the same time I don't necessarily have resentment, it's just a natural process that I accept and appreciate. A competitive symmetry is something I try to avoid. I can be competitive, but it's not a quality I feel like I need to practice religiously. I appreciate a more laid back, and I honestly don't enjoy being around people who take themselves so seriously, that heaven forbid if they fart in public, the world might spontaneously combust. But for many people it's really hard for them to just relax and laugh at themselves. I've experienced an example of competitive symmetry whether I like it or not with my roommate, who just tends to face everything with a competitive attitude. For her, she was just raised with that mindset, so it's tough sometimes because I know she means well, but I'm sure it's probably hard for her to reprogram herself in that area. It's not like being competitive is a bad trait either, but I feel like when it's in excess it's almost projection or overcompensation for an insecurity. And then submissive symmetry, is annoying and seems to be a quality of people with a lot of self doubt. Theres a difference of being easygoing and indecisive. I think that out of these three patterns, I think the first two are probably the hardest to change based off of my personal experiences, and depending on the circumstance, potentially the most damaging.

Ch 12 Question Numba 2:Rationality premise, perfectibility premise, and mutability premise

I do believe that each of the three premises definitely hold validity. The rationality premise sounds like a broad basis for any organized institution. As it says in the book, America bases many structures of society on this principal, such as democracy, trial by jury, and free enterprise. This principal is huge in the world of academics and science. Although, I disagree in the sense of a few things. One, is that the word "truth" can hold a variety of different meanings to an individual. While an analytical step by step process does answer many questions, the actual concept of finding truth may not necessarily mean using the rationality premise. And secondly, when looking at the example of trial by jury, which is based on this premise and has been found to be a faulty process on so many levels, it's tough for me to "believe in" the rationality premise entirely. The perfectibility process, is a belief that I have definitely seen, and have been taught, when looking into the world of the christian church, whether it's one denomination, or another. To me, when I think of "achieving goodness" I think of the concept of Santa's naughty and nice list. I do believe everyone is born with their imperfections, at the same time everyone has a chance of finding their truth and success in this world, but it's not about winning brownie points. And as I am getting a little too deep at this hour I better wrap up with the last one which is the mutability premise. Yes I know our behaviors are greatly influenced by our environment. Additionally I also agree with the concept of improvement in people takes personal physical and psychological changes. Everyone can visualize changes they may want to make for themselves for months, even years. Like losing weight for example. It's a battle for many, but if they make the concrete lifestyle changes and stretch themselves physically and psychologically, and stick with the changes, they will start to really see healthy and clear changes. Alright I'm done ranting. :)

Ch 12 Question 1: Creatures of Our Culture

I do agree with the statement by Ruth Benidict who believes that people are naturally shaped by their culture. As soon as we are born, we are amidst various environments that influence our understanding of the world. Gradually, concepts of tradition and social practices are integrated with our developing human characteristics. As a result, people who are strictly raised in one set belief system, may continue to live consistently believing what they have been taught by their surrounding environment. Or, they might choose to expand beyond such patterns and traditions. I personally believe it is great to hold onto and respect traditions and beliefs I have been taught my family and surrounding environment. While at the same time, I know that there is so much more to experience and learn so I can continue to expand my personal beliefs and view of the world. By taking the time to listen to and learn about other views and beliefs, it becomes easier to make my own personal assessments about different social aspects. Spending time in different cultural settings also adds a great deal of knowledge. As a result, it allows one to be more aware and appreciative of cultural differences.

Disscusion Q 2: Cultural Nonverbal Communication

A number one nonverbal message that has an interesting variation between many countries and cultures is the smile. Many cultures frown upon smiling (no pun intended). While others naturally incorporate it all the time. Some cultures view smiling as a sign of shallowness. Many asian cultures do their best to suppress as much facial expression as possible. Eye contact is another nonverbal message that varies in many cultures. America sees eye contact as a sign of respect and Arabic cultures see prolonged eye contact as a sign of respect, while Japan, Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean avoid eye contact out of respect. I can see where people who aren't aware of these cultural differences may take offense if they have an experience where these cultural variations come into play. For example, when thinking about the differences of "touch" which is another form of nonverbal communication,  look at the miscommunication between cultures in America. If an African American man went into a business ran by an asian culture, he might get a little annoyed when the woman puts his change on the counter instead of handing it to him. Although in many asian cultures, people don't usually touch strangers, especially of the opposite sex, the man may see it as another example of discrimination. Therefore, I believe it is so important for people to educate themselves on the differences between cultures.

Question Numba 1: nonverbal miscommunication

I have been wrong numerous times when it came to reading nonverbal messages from a specific person I spent a lot of time with this summer. I had met this individual almost a year ago and only spent a very brief amount of time with him before he left to go back to his home in Hawaii. We had since then spent a great deal of time getting to know each other via phone conversations and connected very well. The funny thing is that although we were able to connect so well, when we were actually reconnected in Hawaii this summer, there was a huge amount of miscommunication between us. This I realized stemmed from our lack of previous nonverbal communication. Our reading of body language was just not on the same page and this would get really frustrating. Now that I am back home we have great communication again. So its kind of weird overall and hard for me to explain but I think the more in tune two people are with each other and more they really pay attention to each other, it is much easier to use nonverbal communication.

Disscussion Q 2: Man vs. Woman

There are definitely some distinct differences betweens the male and female genders. One of these differences is the way men and women operate their brain. The brain of a female excels in verbal tasks while a males brain is wired with better visual-spacial and mathematical abilities. Women prefer talking while men prefer action as a result of their brain schemes. This affects communication abilities as a result. Psychologists have done some extensive research on language between men and women, and in the last few decades, there have been significant results differentiating the communication skills of the two sexes. But there are also many myths and stereotypes that can be misleading, such as "women talk too much." But bottom line, the females brain tends to make more use of its capacity for empathy and communication, while the males brain tends to exploit the ability to analyze complex systems. Obviously this isn't the case with every man and woman. But I do believe that men and woman can speak the same language, they just communicate it differently based on how their brains function.

Discussion Q 1: Judgement

For many, it is difficult to listen to others; to take in what they have to say, and accept their views even when they don't agree. Everyone has their own opinions based on personal experiences and environmental exposure. Some people are able to connect with each other easier than others, which is usually a result of similar views and other aspects such as age, culture, etc. But two people who come from two completely different perspectives, it can be difficult for them to understand eachother and find a common ground. This is where judgement usually come into play. Especially when ignorance is thrown into the mix. A very important part of communication is the ability to understand or be open minded to learn about a different perspective, even if one doesn't agree with it personally. Obviously people make their own judgements regardless, and I believe its important to do so at appropriate times, for example, when safety is a concern. But in order to gain knowledge and adapt to new societies and cultures, it is so important to put oneself in someone elses shoes, and take the time to understand where that person is coming from. In doing so, I think a great deal of judgement and stereotyping is avoided.

Discussion Question 3 Toulmin Model

The Evaluating Public Communication chapter covered many factors concerning the importance of  capturing an audience with a strong argument. In addition to this, the chapter also explained the steps necessary in order to a deliver a successful case or argument in a speech with six important steps. This is where the Toulmin Model comes into play. The claim, the qualifier, the data, the warrant, the backing, and the rebuttal or reservation. It's important to follow this model because it pushes the speaker to really prepare themselves, check their facts, and overall earn their credibility. Missing only one of these steps would throw everything off, as it is important to properly execute a speech including each key factor. As a result, the speaker builds validity by stating a solid claim and providing the facts to support it. In reverse, it is smart for an audience to be familiar with the Toulmin model so they are also able to properly assess a speaker and discern whether their claim holds credibility or not. Therefore, by using the Toulmin method, the speaker and audience will see effective results.

Discussion Question 2: Image, credibility, and power

When I think of a well known speaker such as President Obama, there are many characteristics contributing to his strength as a speaker. In order to win over an audience, and in this case, America is the audience, the speaker needs to have not just one key attribute but a few very important factors. A physical attractiveness, a sense of credibility, and a source of power are all needed in winning an audiences favor. Starting with physical factor, a speakers outer appearance is what everyone automatically evaluates. It is our human nature to be drawn towards beauty, and with a an appealing surface, an audience tends to draw their attention to what the speaker has to say. An audience also wants an orator they feel they can trust, which is where credibility comes into play. When a speaker presents himself as a trustworthy, knowledgable individual, it is very easy for people to respond well. Because the fact of the matter is, whether the speaker is actually credible or not, there is a great number of people who live as "followers" and tend not to discern according to their own knowledge and experience. They just want to have their needs met. This concept definitely applies to many Americans. And finally, and audience also responds well when the speaker presents themselves as a powerful and successful individual. People don't want to listen to someone who lacks confidence and success, because if the speaker doesn't hold his or her own power, how do they expect lead any other aspect or group of people for that matter? This being said, it is seen that all 3 attributes of image, credibility, and power, which Obama expressed, won the votes of his audience.

Discussion Question 1: Influential Speakers, and Junk Adjusters

The most influential speaker for me would have to be Steve Irwin, the legendary and sadly deceased Crocodile Hunter. I watched his show religiously growing up. I was always entranced by his crazy reptile catching abilities and at the same time, his clear passion and respect for animals and nature. His enthusiasm made his show entertaining and educational at the same time. Whether he was wresting huge crocodiles or catching tiny frogs, his excitement was infectious especially since I share the same excitement towards reptiles. I learned a lot from Steve Irwin, and as a kid, the Crocodile Hunter was the perfect show for teaching me the importance of conservation, which Irwin was also passionate about. When children love something, they want to respect it. And thats what Steve Irwin instilled in me.
The worst speaker I ever heard was this boy in my high school in my AP English class. This boy didn't have an issue with nervousness or even delivery with his speeches or presentations. No, on the contrary, he was actually an alright public speaker. There was one main problem though, he would constantly adjust his junk not only in class, but when he was presenting in front of the class!! So There you have it. I'm sorry, but anyone who grabs his or her crotch when delivering a speech wins the worst speaker award.

Chapter 2 Question 2: Playing Games

As I read the section of chapter 2 regarding the Pragmatic perspective, I couldn't help but think of the dating world. The concept of communication being played as a game is definitely something I have experienced through dating various people in the last year. I don't necessarily have a "type" and have dated many different types of people. but despite the many differences, I have noticed many similar patterns between polar opposite people. And these patterns are through communication.
I have noticed the same thing with building friendships as well. The older I get, the easier it is for me to understand and read other people. In addition, when I am am honest with myself and others, and don't waste time bullshitting around, that is when I am able to pick out other solid and likeminded people. In many cases, people much older than me have assumed that I am in my mid 20's when I am in fact at the tender age of 19. The biggest factor of this seems to be through the art of communication and recognizing patterns in social interactions just like the pragmatic perspective suggests.

Ch 2 Discussion Question 1

          When I read the social constructionist section of chapter 2, I found that it does indeed hold a different perspective in relation to communication. I can think of many examples where the concept of social construction is true. Media plays a huge role in this concept, as almost every single American has some sort of access to magazines, television, internet etc. And with a society such as America, with technologies and media rapidly evolving everyday, many people spend more time in front of a TV or computer screen and listen to media instead of going out and creating their own experiences in the world. For all we can fathom, China doesn't exist until we go their and experience it for ourselves. We can see pictures of China, we can hear what our friends who have traveled there tell us, we can even watch videos and assume that of course China is a real country.
          Even my best friend, who is from West Virginia, has to explain time and time again how different the culture is in California to her friends and family who have never been here. Even though we're still in America, life is extremely different for people even in different cities. Beverly Hills and Compton are two examples of this concept. Cultural diversity, geographic locations, and various social classes can create distinct differences in communication. It can be easy for miscommunication to occur when people from two different back rounds come together, based on these distinctions. As the books suggests for us to be able to follow cultural rules and norms and at the same time abandon unfair or outmoded ways of communication. Considering this I feel that the most effective way to communicate is to be adaptable and understanding of the various diverse societies in our world.

Power of Humor

An influential speaker has a tantalizing way of capturing the attention of his or her audience. Charisma, clarity, and confidence all play an important role with the art of captivation. But to me, a technique that isn't always included in a speech-a dry and painfully sloth-like speech to specify- is the art of comedy. It's human nature to perk up when one hears an unexpected silly word or subtle joke. In psychology today, there are many articles referencing humor and laughter's importance in society, especially in the sense that humor is inhibited by speech, and as a result, connects people in a distinct way. From my personal experiences, and outstanding number of people that give off a gloom or even harsh first impression, all of a sudden open up or soften their hard shells when I crack a joke. It is amazing to see the advantages that this character trait brings. I have literally attained best friends, opportunities, and jobs as a result of my humor. Not to toot my own horn or anything, but I really do take pride in this. And although it may seem like a minor and possibly irrelevent idea, I know gift of humor is one of the most powerful ways of communication.
So in light of this, I would have to say that a speaker I truly admire would definitely have to be the comedian and writer Chelsea Handler. If you've ever seen her show "Chelsea Lately," or stand up, you may find her to be a bit raunchy, but good God that woman is talented. The reason I say this is probably because when I read many of her books, they were the literally the fasted books I have ever read. Mind you I'm not a huge reader. But for once in my life, my attention was finally captured for more then 5 minutes, and I didn't find myself needing to read the same sentences 3 times in a row. A little back round on Chelsea Handler, who came from a dysfunctional family of 8, and was running her own babysitting business and handling her older brothers financial affairs at 9. It takes a great amount of intelligence to have great humor, and as I'd like to think I'm pretty damn funny, that might be wishful thinking as Handler really takes the cake. She's not only a master of the technique pathos, in the way that she brings tears of joy and urine to her audiences and readers. (OK so I haven't personally peed my pants as a result of humor but I know many other people have!) But she is also freakishly gifted in the usage of ethos and logos as well. Her friends and family describe her insane talent of being to persuade anyone and everyone of the most outlandish lies and stories. She has literally tricked many people into believing a joke, forget about it, and have her victims still persuaded in her favor 6 months later. Time and time again, Chelsea has succeeded to convince her closest loved ones and even employees of some really dumb stuff. Just a few examples, she convinced her friends to evacuate a hotel because it was flooding, she convinced her (same)boyfriend she was pregnant 4 times, and convinced dozens of strangers that they would get to meet Carol King if they entered a lottery at her lemonade stand when she was 9.
Now, again you may find this to be a random example of one of my favorite speakers, but as I find humor to be one of the most effective tactics for communication, it would only be appropriate that I look to Chelsea Handler as one of my greatest influences.