3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
A concept in the chapter 2 reading that I found interesting was the social constructionist model of communication. As stated in the book, people exist within, and perceive themselves and others through the communicative practices of their cultures in a social constructionist model. It is interesting to know that our own lives revolve around a model and we follow each step everyday without even knowing it. Symbolic codes and cultural traditions are thw two elements that stick out to me from the social constructionist model of communication. The reason for that is because we rely so heavily on who we are by our cultures and being able to communicate with one another through our cultures amazes me. There are times when it is difficult for me to difficult with another person who does not understand some of my own customs. Communications is a very interesting subject and all the elements in this book are increasing my love for communications!
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Hi Goober,
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I would like to thank you for your comment about my first post about my incident in Paris.
In regards to your one concept you found useful or interesting. I have to agree with you in that social constructive model of communication is my favorite as well. You mentioned “symbolic codes” and “cultural traditions.” I think these are very intriguing points to cover in communications. The simple fact that in one culture a “thumbs up” could mean everything is good or all right. Yet, in another culture it could be interpreted as something negative. I work with a very diverse group of individuals and it seems I get along with all ethnic groups and ages at work. However, I am very sensitive when I send out an email to my fellow workers about how I communicate to them. For example, when I send out a meeting planner for a Christmas party, I purposely title my communication as a “Holiday Event,” so I will not offend workers who do not celebrate Christmas. I also, will note if there are members who do not wish to participate, to feel free to decline this invitation.
Hi Goober,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you, a lot of who we are does heavily rely upon our culture, which is shown and practiced throughout our upbringing. Many of us have symbolic codes that are very prevalent in out lives. You are very right that sometimes it is hard to communicate with other people that are not familiar with these codes, or if they have codes of their own that you may not be familiar with or understand.
As PARIS mentioned “Christmas parties” and “Holiday Parties” are a great example of others cultures. Holiday parties seem to be becoming more universally accepted, and are more P.C.
Great post!
ImaginePeace
gOober,
ReplyDeleteAfter reading that part in the book, I realized myself that everyone does go through each step without knowing it. Living in a Filipino culture there are many differences in beliefs from that of my friends and acquaintances. Living in America today there is so many different symbolic codes we encounter everyday and don't understand. For example in the Indian culture it is disrespectful to show the bottom of you feet to and elder or anyone of a higher stature than you. In America kicking your feet up is perfectly fine. So there could be a little bit of miscommunication there if a teacher from India came over here and had a student do that to them.
have a gOod one!
I agree about your comments on cultural differences. I thought the book did not go into much detail and didn't give a lot examples. But, your examples of culture and personal experiences were what I was thinking while reading the chapter.
ReplyDeleteHi Goober. I am glad you found the social constructionist perspective useful and interesting. Were there any other concepts in the book, not covered during this week's discussion, that you found useful?
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