Advancing my Understanding of Communication Through Theory
Studying communication theory has helped me advance my understanding of how people communicate. This course has offered me many new insights in the reasoning behind many complex behaviors. The thing I gained the most was a better understanding of the technical aspects of communication theory. Some of these features include gender talk, identifying deception and encoding messages for the most desired outcome. I would also add that my appreciation grew regarding the various abilities needed to develop successful communication.
I particularly enjoyed the film analysis assignment since it allowed me to utilize my comprehension of the materials. It was also a fascinating project because the three theories we applied, Symbolic Interactionism, Interpersonal Deception theory and the Narrative Paradigm, each had their own unique approach to communication.
In general I would say that communication education contributes to making the person studying it more complete and well rounded. Critical thinking, leadership skills and media literacy are just some of the additional capacities I have been able to add to my resume through the study of communication theories.
In the professional sphere, understanding communication theories helps explain and predict situations through recognition of characteristics of communication. For me, I can apply the lessons learned this semester into practical situations in my current position as a digital marketing specialist. There are many job related competencies to take away from each lesson that can help in the area of career advancement as well. A concept that I am walking away with and seeing as extremely relevant to the professional space is the theory of relational dialects. The ability to problem solve is especially important at work.
Another example of the value an expanded communications background holds is behavior analysis. One specific application of this approach is through better cooperation with coworkers. In the workplace oral and written communication play a major role in establishing one’s brand in the office. Socialization skills can lead to improved relationships and by knowing how and why people act or react helps me determine how I will communicate.
The ePortfolio projects encouraged me to think more objectively about my professional communication based on the perception of a self-awareness model. I think it is important to be aware of how I come across to others. In order to achieve my goals of presenting myself in a skilled manner I need to know how others see me and use that information to make the best version of myself. Another benefit of critical analysis proficiencies is that I can now better analyze the steps and missteps I take when building relationships. In the communications business it is all about relationships!
