My Approach to Communication Theory and Research
Points: 50
Due: Check Course Schedule
Purpose:
- To demonstrate your understanding ofthe two major approaches to communication theory: objective and interpretive (Chs. 2 and 3)
- To demonstrate your understanding of the standards for objective and interpretive theory
To prepare before you begin writing:
- Review the major approaches to studying and understanding communication, outlined in Chapters 2 and 3 in the textbook/e-book
- Think about the differences in how Glen and Marty approach similar topics in the study of Communication (described in Chapter 2).
Format:
- APA Format – Specific information is on Canvas. You do NOT need an abstract or author’s note, you DO need an APA style cover page with a running header, title of the paper, your name, class title, and the date. Throughout the paper, be sure you use APA style spacing and margins, as well as font type and size.
- You will submit a short, two- page paper for this assignment
- No deduction for going one half page over or under this requirement
What to write about:
- Begin by discussing which perspective, the objective(Glen’s) or interpretive (Marty’s), you align with most.
- Explain WHY you align yourself most with that approach
- In your narrative, explain how you feel about the following, based on your perspective. Make sure that you do not just list answers here. Instead, EXPLAIN how you feel about each of these, and use a specific example to illustrate your perspective.
- Ways of knowing (Epistemology): Truth or multiple realities?
- Assumptions about human nature: Determinism or free will?
- Values: Objectivity or Emancipation?
- Purpose of theory: Universal laws or interpretive guides
- You may feel like you are “in the middle.” This is understandable, but for the sake of the paper,try to choose one perspective, even if you are barely leaning toward that approach
- Finally, come up with ONE research question or topic that you could study/examine from your preferred perspective.
- Chapters 2 and 3 will be helpful here. You may find Chapter 4, especially the “recap” at the end of the description for each tradition, helpful as well, as long as you keep in mind where the traditions fall on the objective – interpretive continuum.
- For example, as a social scientist I might want to analyze the differences in graduation rates between groups of freshmen who enter college as a cohort, and those who do not.
- In your narrative, explain how you feel about the following, based on your perspective. Make sure that you do not just list answers here. Instead, EXPLAIN how you feel about each of these, and use a specific example to illustrate your perspective.
IMPORTANT: Do NOT copy or use direct quotes from the book. Put the information in your own words!
Grading Rubric
| Requirement | Point Value |
| Clearly identify and define your perspective | _____/ 10
|
| Provide a detailed explanation as to WHY you align with that approach. Include specific descriptions and EXAMPLES for your perspective on each of the following: · Ways of knowing (Epistemology): Truth or multiple realities? · Assumptions about human nature: Determinism or free will? · Values: Objectivity or emancipation? · Purpose of theory: Universal laws or interpretive guides
| _____/ 20 |
| Specific research question or topic is clearly identified · Research questionor topic aligns appropriately with the preferred perspective identified in part 1
| _____/ 5 |
| Clear, concise, college-level writing. This includes proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, etc. Avoid contractions (e.g., can’t, won’t)
| _____/ 10 |
| APA style, including cover page
| _____/ 5 |
| POSSIBLE DEDUCTIONS: | |
| – Proper page length – Late paper (see syllabus) – Plagiarism (see syllabus- It’s not worth it!) | – 5 for every 1/2 page short Half a page in an APA style paper is about 11 lines. |
| TOTAL: | _______/ 50
|
| COMMENTS:
|