Micayla Rothberg

Professor Berkos
Senior Seminar - Communication Theory
September 10, 2018
DP1

Chapter 1 provided readers with an in-depth view on the communication process.

Individuals are unique in all ways, which means communication skills certainly vary. In order to

hold successful relationships in life, improvements should be made overtime.

The term communication means “an exchange of messages / information”. These

messages can be expressed in different ways (verbal or nonverbal) and shown in different

settings (individual setting, group, social media, etc.). It is common for messages to be

interpreted incorrectly. Dance explained that the definition of communication can have many

limits. Various limits occur when a message is trying to be portrayed, but are mistaken for a

different meaning. If at any point the message may be confusing, it would not be considered

communication. The end – goal is to have all parties on the same page, and no misinterpretations

along the way.

The concept of contexts of communication allow a breakdown / organization of subject

messages. In the examples from the book, these messages occur in different settings. The

concept demonstrates how we as individuals interact within categories (cognitive, individual and

social, interpersonal, intercultural, persuasive, group, organizational, mediated and mass

communication). The subjects of these messages can be with one person, many people or not

with anyone directly. The settings may also have an influence on how these messages are being

shown / discussed.
 Communication competences examples how two key points can make you a successful

communicator. Appropriateness and effectiveness will lead you to accomplishing the end result

of your message. However, often times these two points are easier said than done. Individuals

have the tendency to certainly be effective in their messages, but lack appropriateness.

Appropriateness pinpoints if the question was worded correctly, if the tone of voice was suitable,

and if you had confidence when asking the question, etc. Effectiveness has to do with the

outcome of your message – did you get the result you were looking for? Were you successful in

getting your message across? These two points are essential to make so the message is clear to

both parties.

Theories are detailed communication concepts that focus on a specific objective. A

concept is a general idea we have within our reality. These ideas can be applied to any of our

experiences and can be understood in a variety of ways. Concepts do not explain how or why

something happens, but rather organizes it. Before a concept becomes a theory, it is first a model.

When it is in the model stage, it is being developed and proven. Once this is established, it is

then a theory.

Towards the end of this reading three types of theories were mentioned (commonsense

theories, working theories, and scholarly theories). Starting with the commonsense theory, it is

considered less complex than the other two. It’s knowledge that came from previous experiences.

Working theories become a little more intricate because it consists of structure or step – by – step

way of participating in an activity. Scholarly theories are the most orderly, being which they go

through the most research and at times difficult to understand. This can still be applied to adults

of all ages, not just working professionals.

 Behind each theory there are strengths and weaknesses. However, when it comes to

evaluating them we do not look at these objects. Instead, we take a look at how “useful” it is not

just for ourselves, but for individuals as a whole.

This section of the reading really opened my eyes to how deep the communication

process goes. Similar to our class discussion about our strengths and weaknesses as a

communicator, it got me thinking about what I do and do not do as a communicator. In regards to

Dance’s view on what is not considered communication, I find myself doing those limitations. I

space out and don’t pay attention, I don’t understand what is going on, and I yawn when others

are speaking. It’s difficult to eliminate all of these elements that may be detrimental to

communication skills. However, I’ve realized that this is why it’s important to take

communication classes because I now have all of these in mind. I have the ability to learn from

my mistakes and bring them with me after I graduate.

I am nearly finished with taking communication courses at Bryant, and I have found that

theories are everywhere; no matter what we are take. For example, I have taken both Health

Communication and Interpersonal Communication courses. These courses introduced me to

theories that I can either relate to directly or find real – life examples to relate back. For example,

I’ve written papers on Social Identity Theory, Social Penetration Theory, and have done

presentations on the Theory of Planned Behavior. With so many examples to follow back on, the

material has been so much easier to follow and I can further explain these theories instead of

listing the definition.

1) Do you feel that all behavior can count as communication?

2) Based on the eighth context under context of communication, how does technology influence

our interpersonal group and organizational communication? Positively or negatively?

3) Do you see yourself growing as a person after taking communication courses? What have you
learned?