Topics:
1.
Introductions to theory and research
2.
Introductions to communication theories
3.
Communication models
4.
Research and ways to evaluate communication theory
5.
Theories on self and message
6.
Theories related to interpersonal communication
7.
Theories related to group and organizational communication
8.
Theories related to public communication
9.
Theories related to mass media
10.
Theories related to intercultural communication.
1. INTRODUCTION TO THEORY AND RESEARCH
Definition: Abstract
system of concepts with indications of the relationships among these concepts
that helps us to understand a phenomenon.
Theory
can be summarized as:
-A
statement or description formed to describe a phenomenon
-Temporary
-Theory
can be accepted, rejected or modified based on the results of systematic studies
-Systematic
review should support descriptive and explanatory evidence
Importance
of theory:
-Help
make decision
-Help
identify patterns of events
-Allow
decisions to be made based on aligned interests
-Help
someone be more efficient in making decisions
-Allow
someone to adapt to complex situations
-Allow
someone to interpret events
-Helps
someone to see and interpret something perspective
-Help
someone to expand the response
Theory
should consist of:
-Theory: explanation of certain phenomenon
-Concepts:
an idea of what something is/how it works
-Construct:
an idea containing various conceptual elements, typically one considered to be
subjective and not based on empirical evidence
-Variables:
not consistent/ having a fixed pattern: liable to change and can be measured
Features
and attributes of theory:
1.
Level of generality
2.
Components
3.
Goals
A
theory can be:
1.
Grand theory (universal): explain all communication behavior in a manner that
universally true. Have ability to unify all knowledge into one integrated theoretical
framework
2.
Middle range theory (moderately general): explain all behavior of a specific group
of people rather than all people. Explain behavior within specified time or context.
Focused aspect of communication behavior such as how people behave in initial encounters
with strangers.
3.
Narrow theory (very specific): explain a very limited aspect of a phenomenon
such as communication. Concerns only certain people in certain situation.
*Theories
differ in their level of generally due to their difference in focus/ what they
try to explain.
*Symbolic
interaction theory: focus on the entire communication process
*Rhetorical
theory: focus more specifically on a given aspect of the process such as
message/ sender
*Social
penetration theory: relationship development
*Knowing
a variety of ways to classify theories helps us to see how very dissimilar of works
(such as uncertainty reduction, uses and gratifications, muted group)
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