Hello Class!
I have added a column to the gradebook on Blackboard. This column should reflect the total points in the class that you accumulated. Here is the final grading scale:
A 950-1000
A- 900-949
B+ 870-899
B 840-869
B- 800-839
C+ 770-799
C 740-769
C- 700-739
D+ 670-699
D 640-669
D- 600-639
F 600 and below
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Journal Assignment Returned
Hello Class! I will return your journal assignments tonight. Expect them in your inbox at some point this evening.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Proctor Submission and Journal Updates
Hello Class! I hope today finds you well.
As a reminder, today is the last day to take the final exam. Please make sure it is submitted by tonight at 11:59pm.
A note about Proctor Forms: Please have your completed Proctor Form submitted to me by Wednesday at 11:59pm. This means that you should email it (preferably), fax it or send it through snail mail. Please email me and let me know how you have submitted it. I will not release final grades until I receive all proctor forms. This means that if you forget to send your proctor form, you will be holding up the release of final grades. I will keep a spreadsheet to keep track of how you have submitted the form. Also, make sure the information of your Proctor is correct. I spot check proctors randomly, so I may be contacting your proctor by phone or email.
Journal Assignment Update: I will be working on compiling the journal feedback today and tomorrow. You should have your final journal assignment with a grade, returned to you soon. It seems like some of you really liked the journal assignment, and even enjoyed reading over a few other people's papers. I know I have enjoyed reading over them, and I'm glad you have too.
Office hours for next week: I will be holding normal office hours on Tuesday, but extending them from 10am to 12pm. Tuesday will be the last day I will hold office hours, so pop in and say hi if you're free.
As a reminder, today is the last day to take the final exam. Please make sure it is submitted by tonight at 11:59pm.
A note about Proctor Forms: Please have your completed Proctor Form submitted to me by Wednesday at 11:59pm. This means that you should email it (preferably), fax it or send it through snail mail. Please email me and let me know how you have submitted it. I will not release final grades until I receive all proctor forms. This means that if you forget to send your proctor form, you will be holding up the release of final grades. I will keep a spreadsheet to keep track of how you have submitted the form. Also, make sure the information of your Proctor is correct. I spot check proctors randomly, so I may be contacting your proctor by phone or email.
Journal Assignment Update: I will be working on compiling the journal feedback today and tomorrow. You should have your final journal assignment with a grade, returned to you soon. It seems like some of you really liked the journal assignment, and even enjoyed reading over a few other people's papers. I know I have enjoyed reading over them, and I'm glad you have too.
Office hours for next week: I will be holding normal office hours on Tuesday, but extending them from 10am to 12pm. Tuesday will be the last day I will hold office hours, so pop in and say hi if you're free.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Concept Application Paper - Returned
Hello Class.
It is 11am and I am returning the Concept Application Papers now. Expect them in a few minutes.
:)
Carol
It is 11am and I am returning the Concept Application Papers now. Expect them in a few minutes.
:)
Carol
Friday, December 11, 2009
Concept Application Paper
I will be returning the Concept Application Papers tomorrow morning (Saturday). My goal was to have them returned earlier, but with the power outages, it was nearly impossible to get them done as planned. My apologies!!!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Final Exam Procedures
Here are the directions for the final exam:
1). I have extended the final exam dates as follows: Exam opens December 10th @ 12:01am and closes December 13th at 11:59pm. (Originally the final exam was Dec. 10th and 11th). I thought it would be nice to give you an extra couple of days to study. Please submit your final exam by Dec. 13th at 11:59pm. Start early.
2). The final exam covers Chapters 1-13. The study sheet is located on the Handouts Page on Blackboard.
3). Please log onto Blackboard and take the final exam. It is open book, open notes. Please DO NOT share answers, give tips to other classmates or help another student. You alone are to take the final exam. You will have 75 minutes to complete the final.
4). Have someone Proctor your final exam. This person must be over 21 and NOT a member of this class. They must watch you complete the final exam in accordance with the University's Academic Integrity Policy.
5). Download the Proctor Form located on the Handouts Page on Blackboard. Both you and the Proctor must sign the form.
6). Send me your proctor form: Scan it into the computer (preferred method) and email it to me. You can do that or fax it to the Communication Studies Office, or send it through snail mail.
REMINDER: The semester officially ends on December 17th. I will have everything returned to you by this date. My goal is to have the Concept Application Papers returned by the weekend. The Journals will take me a couple of days beyond that to compile grades and send them back to you.
Email me with any questions. Good luck on the final exam! :)
1). I have extended the final exam dates as follows: Exam opens December 10th @ 12:01am and closes December 13th at 11:59pm. (Originally the final exam was Dec. 10th and 11th). I thought it would be nice to give you an extra couple of days to study. Please submit your final exam by Dec. 13th at 11:59pm. Start early.
2). The final exam covers Chapters 1-13. The study sheet is located on the Handouts Page on Blackboard.
3). Please log onto Blackboard and take the final exam. It is open book, open notes. Please DO NOT share answers, give tips to other classmates or help another student. You alone are to take the final exam. You will have 75 minutes to complete the final.
4). Have someone Proctor your final exam. This person must be over 21 and NOT a member of this class. They must watch you complete the final exam in accordance with the University's Academic Integrity Policy.
5). Download the Proctor Form located on the Handouts Page on Blackboard. Both you and the Proctor must sign the form.
6). Send me your proctor form: Scan it into the computer (preferred method) and email it to me. You can do that or fax it to the Communication Studies Office, or send it through snail mail.
REMINDER: The semester officially ends on December 17th. I will have everything returned to you by this date. My goal is to have the Concept Application Papers returned by the weekend. The Journals will take me a couple of days beyond that to compile grades and send them back to you.
Email me with any questions. Good luck on the final exam! :)
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Journal Assignment
Hi Folks!
My power has been spotty the last few days, so it may take me a while to respond to each person individually regarding the journal assignment. I will respond when I can.
I will not be on campus tomorrow, as I am still snowed in. I apologize if you were planning on stopping by my office in the morning.
I hope you all are doing well!
:)
Carol
My power has been spotty the last few days, so it may take me a while to respond to each person individually regarding the journal assignment. I will respond when I can.
I will not be on campus tomorrow, as I am still snowed in. I apologize if you were planning on stopping by my office in the morning.
I hope you all are doing well!
:)
Carol
Monday, December 7, 2009
Contacting me
Hello All!
Just a quick note to let you know that I may not be holding office hours tomorrow. As it stands, my power has been out for about 16 hours and I have no reliable way to stay connected to the internet without power. I will be answering email though, but my response time may take a little longer than expected. I will update later with whether or not I will hold office hours tomorrow.
Until later......
Just a quick note to let you know that I may not be holding office hours tomorrow. As it stands, my power has been out for about 16 hours and I have no reliable way to stay connected to the internet without power. I will be answering email though, but my response time may take a little longer than expected. I will update later with whether or not I will hold office hours tomorrow.
Until later......
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Week of December 6-8
Hello Class, here is what is listed on the Participation and Schedule Pages on Blackboard:
Answer one question in each of your three posts (the 12 hour restriction is removed this week due to the short week):
1). What concept/s in this class have you found most interesting? What was it about the concept/s that you found interesting.
2). Pick on other concept from the book that you feel needs further discussion?
3). What was it about this class that you liked? What do you think needs improvement?
Note: I have changed one of the discussion questions this week, so please use this list of questions rather than what is listed on Blackboard.
Reminder: Please post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs. Make sure that you are commenting on posts within the date range of Dec. 6-8.
Journal assignment reminder: Graded journal assignments are due by Tuesday, December 8th at 11:59pm.
Let me know if you have any questions. I will be available all week through email. I will be in my office on Wednesday, December 9th from about 8:15am to 8:45m in case you want to meet. I can meet other times on Wednesday, but that will be by appointment. Email me if you want to stop by my office to chat.
Answer one question in each of your three posts (the 12 hour restriction is removed this week due to the short week):
1). What concept/s in this class have you found most interesting? What was it about the concept/s that you found interesting.
2). Pick on other concept from the book that you feel needs further discussion?
3). What was it about this class that you liked? What do you think needs improvement?
Note: I have changed one of the discussion questions this week, so please use this list of questions rather than what is listed on Blackboard.
Reminder: Please post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs. Make sure that you are commenting on posts within the date range of Dec. 6-8.
Journal assignment reminder: Graded journal assignments are due by Tuesday, December 8th at 11:59pm.
Let me know if you have any questions. I will be available all week through email. I will be in my office on Wednesday, December 9th from about 8:15am to 8:45m in case you want to meet. I can meet other times on Wednesday, but that will be by appointment. Email me if you want to stop by my office to chat.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Journals
I had to post a quick note about your Journals - WOW!!!!! I am lovin' what you all wrote. I have read over some journals already, and I must say, I'm impressed. It looks like this was a really useful assignment when applying communication concepts from the course to a real world setting and to get you thinking about communication as it relates to real life. That was the goal, and from what I have read so far you all really grabbed a hold of the assignment and ran with it. Good job! I can't wait to read the rest of the journals.
In addition, I am very excited that you all have an opportunity to read what each other wrote, even if it is just a small handful of journals. I think you will really enjoy reading what your colleagues have written.
In addition, I am very excited that you all have an opportunity to read what each other wrote, even if it is just a small handful of journals. I think you will really enjoy reading what your colleagues have written.
Please complete an online SOTE evaluation for Comm 105
Once again it is the time of year that students must complete SOTE ratings. Please have yours completed and submitted by Monday, December 7th @ 11:59pm.
Please log into your "MySJSU" account and complete a SOTE evaluation for this course. Here are the instructions:
1). Log into "MySJSU"
2). SJSU Campus Solutions (left hand side bar)
3). Under Campus Community it should say "Online SOTE Ratings"
4). Complete the evaluation
5). Submit
Please be aware that once you submit the form, you will not be able to change what you have entered into the form.
Once you have completed the online SOTE evaluation, please send me a confirmation email that you have submitted the form. No need to enter text into the body of your confirmation email. Simply start an email and write "SOTE submitted" in the subject line.
Please email me if you have any questions about this. As always, I'm available by email, Yahoo Messenger and phone conversations.
I greatly appreciate your participation in the online SOTE ratings of both the class and instructor!
Please log into your "MySJSU" account and complete a SOTE evaluation for this course. Here are the instructions:
1). Log into "MySJSU"
2). SJSU Campus Solutions (left hand side bar)
3). Under Campus Community it should say "Online SOTE Ratings"
4). Complete the evaluation
5). Submit
Please be aware that once you submit the form, you will not be able to change what you have entered into the form.
Once you have completed the online SOTE evaluation, please send me a confirmation email that you have submitted the form. No need to enter text into the body of your confirmation email. Simply start an email and write "SOTE submitted" in the subject line.
Please email me if you have any questions about this. As always, I'm available by email, Yahoo Messenger and phone conversations.
I greatly appreciate your participation in the online SOTE ratings of both the class and instructor!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Week of November 29 - December 5
Hello Class!
You have three things to complete this week:
*Quiz on Blackboard on Chapters 11 & 13
*Work on Concept Application Paper - due by Friday, December 4th @ 11:59pm
*Work on grading the journal assignments (already emailed to you), due by December 8th @ 11:59pm.
I have purposely not scheduled a discussion week so you can work on the two remaining projects in the course - Grading Journals and the Concept Application Paper. In fact, this is why I have not scheduled discussion for the past two weeks. I know schedules are tight around this time in the semester, and I wanted to make sure you had extra time to get the projects finished for this course. So I figured I would not schedule discussion these last couple of weeks in hopes that you would take advantage of that time to work on the projects in this course.
I emailed out directions about how to complete the grading aspect of the journal assignment. I do not want you to spend a vast amount of time grading the journals, so please simply read over each entry and grade it by using the grading sheets. The grading sheets are pretty self explanatory and shouldn't take too much time to fill out. You have almost 9 days to complete the grading aspect of the journal assignment, which should be more than enough time to read over them and fill out the grading sheets.
In addition to this, I am pleased that so many of you were able to take advantage of the extra credit opportunity! Sending in your Concept Application Paper early really frees you up for the last couple of weeks of the class, and that's a good thing. I understand how busy each person is at the end of the semester, and was pleased with how some of you were able to take advantage of the extra credit opportunity, thus freeing up your schedule.
Please let me know if there are any questions or issues. I'm still here to chat over the phone, through Yahoo Messenger and through email. If you are having any issues at all, please get in contact with me.
You have three things to complete this week:
*Quiz on Blackboard on Chapters 11 & 13
*Work on Concept Application Paper - due by Friday, December 4th @ 11:59pm
*Work on grading the journal assignments (already emailed to you), due by December 8th @ 11:59pm.
I have purposely not scheduled a discussion week so you can work on the two remaining projects in the course - Grading Journals and the Concept Application Paper. In fact, this is why I have not scheduled discussion for the past two weeks. I know schedules are tight around this time in the semester, and I wanted to make sure you had extra time to get the projects finished for this course. So I figured I would not schedule discussion these last couple of weeks in hopes that you would take advantage of that time to work on the projects in this course.
I emailed out directions about how to complete the grading aspect of the journal assignment. I do not want you to spend a vast amount of time grading the journals, so please simply read over each entry and grade it by using the grading sheets. The grading sheets are pretty self explanatory and shouldn't take too much time to fill out. You have almost 9 days to complete the grading aspect of the journal assignment, which should be more than enough time to read over them and fill out the grading sheets.
In addition to this, I am pleased that so many of you were able to take advantage of the extra credit opportunity! Sending in your Concept Application Paper early really frees you up for the last couple of weeks of the class, and that's a good thing. I understand how busy each person is at the end of the semester, and was pleased with how some of you were able to take advantage of the extra credit opportunity, thus freeing up your schedule.
Please let me know if there are any questions or issues. I'm still here to chat over the phone, through Yahoo Messenger and through email. If you are having any issues at all, please get in contact with me.
Impressed
Hello Class!
If I have received your journals, you should have a confirmation email waiting for you. I will send out additional instructions later today around 5pm or so clarifying the grading process, which should be a simple one for you.
I'm quite impressed with your journals. It looks like the 'applied' part of your journals worked well. This was the goal - to get out there an observe communication in the real world, make connections between the concepts in the text and your observations, then write about them.
Did you find this assignment useful??? You can leave a comment here anonymously if you would like. Just be sure you are not logged into your google account, and you can leave an anonymous comment if you don't want me to be able to identify you. :) Some folks like anonymity when giving feedback, and that's just fine by me.
Quite a few people sent their journals early. I appreciate that!
After my email tonight, please let me know if you have any questions about the grading process. I'm here to help!
Until later........
If I have received your journals, you should have a confirmation email waiting for you. I will send out additional instructions later today around 5pm or so clarifying the grading process, which should be a simple one for you.
I'm quite impressed with your journals. It looks like the 'applied' part of your journals worked well. This was the goal - to get out there an observe communication in the real world, make connections between the concepts in the text and your observations, then write about them.
Did you find this assignment useful??? You can leave a comment here anonymously if you would like. Just be sure you are not logged into your google account, and you can leave an anonymous comment if you don't want me to be able to identify you. :) Some folks like anonymity when giving feedback, and that's just fine by me.
Quite a few people sent their journals early. I appreciate that!
After my email tonight, please let me know if you have any questions about the grading process. I'm here to help!
Until later........
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Clarification about the Journal Assignment submission
Hello Folks,
When you submit your journal assignment, please submit only one document and put the assignments into this order:
Journal #1 - Public Communication
Journal #2 - Nonverbal Communication
Journal #3 - Intercultural Communication
Journal #4 - Interpersonal Communication
Journal #5 - Communication and the Mass Media
Grading Sheets (all 5 at the end of the Journal)
I apologize if there was any confusion.
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
When you submit your journal assignment, please submit only one document and put the assignments into this order:
Journal #1 - Public Communication
Journal #2 - Nonverbal Communication
Journal #3 - Intercultural Communication
Journal #4 - Interpersonal Communication
Journal #5 - Communication and the Mass Media
Grading Sheets (all 5 at the end of the Journal)
I apologize if there was any confusion.
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Availability through Thanksgiving
Hello Class!
I will be available through the Thanksgiving break in case you need to contact me for any reason. Yes, this means I will even be available on Thanksgiving through email and phone should something arise. It may take me a bit longer to reply to you since I too, have family gatherings and will be participating in the 'day after Thanksgiving' shopping day.
If I do not talk to you over the Thanksgiving Holiday, I wish you all a wonderful day. Be safe!!!
I will be available through the Thanksgiving break in case you need to contact me for any reason. Yes, this means I will even be available on Thanksgiving through email and phone should something arise. It may take me a bit longer to reply to you since I too, have family gatherings and will be participating in the 'day after Thanksgiving' shopping day.
If I do not talk to you over the Thanksgiving Holiday, I wish you all a wonderful day. Be safe!!!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Grades Posted for 11/15-11/21
I have just posted grades for the discussion week of 11/15-11/21. Please log onto Blackboard and checkout your grade. Email me if you have any questions.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Week of November 22-28
Hello Class! Here is what's listed on the Participation and Schedule pages for this week:
Since this is Thanksgiving week, and we have a couple of semester projects due, you have the entire week to work on those projects. There is no discussion this week! There are no quizzes/tests this week. The only thing you should complete this week is your Concept Application Paper and your Journal Project.
The due dates for the remaining projects in this course are listed in my post below. As a reminder, the all entries for the semester long Journal Project (which you should have been working on all semester) is due this coming Saturday, November 28th by 11:59pm. Please plan ahead, and submit your paper early if you think you may not have time over the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Also, if you submit your Concept Application Paper by November 28th by 11:59pm, you will earn yourself 15 extra credit points! If you think your grade needs a little boost, please take advantage of this opportunity.
I will email out the Concept Application Paper with the attached grading sheet in a few minutes. I will also send out an additional email about the Journal Project!
Since this is Thanksgiving week, and we have a couple of semester projects due, you have the entire week to work on those projects. There is no discussion this week! There are no quizzes/tests this week. The only thing you should complete this week is your Concept Application Paper and your Journal Project.
The due dates for the remaining projects in this course are listed in my post below. As a reminder, the all entries for the semester long Journal Project (which you should have been working on all semester) is due this coming Saturday, November 28th by 11:59pm. Please plan ahead, and submit your paper early if you think you may not have time over the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Also, if you submit your Concept Application Paper by November 28th by 11:59pm, you will earn yourself 15 extra credit points! If you think your grade needs a little boost, please take advantage of this opportunity.
I will email out the Concept Application Paper with the attached grading sheet in a few minutes. I will also send out an additional email about the Journal Project!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Extra Credit Opportunity
I have been thinking about how to handle extra credit for a few weeks now (I have never offered extra credit in this class before, so you guys are pretty lucky!) ;) I was going to give an extra assignment, but because this time in the semester is usually quite busy, I don't think I can in good faith, offer another assignment.
So here's what I will offer - each student who turns in their Concept Application Paper by November 28th at 11:59pm will earn 15 points extra credit. This means that you will turn your paper in about a week early (a week from today).
I have not scheduled a discussion week because I count it as a catch up week. You have a couple of assignments due, so for the next couple of weeks (see the Participation Page) you will not have discussion so you can focus on course projects!
So here's what I will offer - each student who turns in their Concept Application Paper by November 28th at 11:59pm will earn 15 points extra credit. This means that you will turn your paper in about a week early (a week from today).
I have not scheduled a discussion week because I count it as a catch up week. You have a couple of assignments due, so for the next couple of weeks (see the Participation Page) you will not have discussion so you can focus on course projects!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Date Reminders
Hello Class!
In order to simplify the end of the semester projects, here are a list of dates to remember:
November 28th - Completed Journal is due by 11:59pm. Since you have been working on these journal entries all semester, this date should come as no surprise. Furthermore, your journal should be almost completed since you have been working on it and making entries for the last two to three months. I made the last journal entry a fairly simple 'reflection' paper to make the process a bit easier for you as the end of the semester nears.
December 4th - Concept Application Paper is due by 11:59pm. You are more than welcome to submit this assignment early so you are not working on two assignments (grading your classmates journals) at the same time. In fact, I encourage it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I suggest you work on this assignment during Thanksgiving week and turn it in early if possible. I may offer extra credit for turning in the Concept Application Paper early!!! So keep a look out for that post!
December 8th - Graded Journals are due by 11:59pm. I would love to extend this deadline, but unfortunately due to Dead Day, and the final exam schedule, I am unable to do so. Grading the journals should be a simple process. You will read over two to three journals from your classmates and rate them in 4 different areas on a scale from 1-5. See the grading sheet posted on Blackboard to review the grading criteria. You will also provide a sentence or two of feedback. Grading each journal should not take too long, and you have approximately a week to complete your portion of the grading. (Remember, your journal is worth 100 points, and your participation in the grading process is worth 25 points. This means that your classmates will grade you on the 100 point portion of the assignment, and I will grade you on the 25 point portion of the assignment. Of course I will look over each journal to make sure that the grading is consistent and correct. More detail to come over the weekend.)
December 10-11 - Final Exam. This exam is open book and open notes. You are more than welcome to use any notes, chapter outlines, powerpoint presentations and of course your text. However, you are not allowed to share answers with each other, or distribute the questions per the academic integrity policy. You will have a person over 21 (any person not associated with this course) proctor your final exam for you. This simply means that the person watches you take your final exam to make sure you are not violating the academic integrity policy in any way. They will fill out their portion of the proctor form, then you will fill out your portion and either email (scan it into the computer and email it to me), fax it to the Comm. Dept., or send it through snail mail.
In order to ease your load a bit as the semester winds down, this week was the second to last discussion week. The final discussion week in this course is fairly simple and should require very little effort. I may change the questions for the last discussion week to make it even easier for you to complete, so stay tuned for that post as the time comes closer.
In order to simplify the end of the semester projects, here are a list of dates to remember:
November 28th - Completed Journal is due by 11:59pm. Since you have been working on these journal entries all semester, this date should come as no surprise. Furthermore, your journal should be almost completed since you have been working on it and making entries for the last two to three months. I made the last journal entry a fairly simple 'reflection' paper to make the process a bit easier for you as the end of the semester nears.
December 4th - Concept Application Paper is due by 11:59pm. You are more than welcome to submit this assignment early so you are not working on two assignments (grading your classmates journals) at the same time. In fact, I encourage it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I suggest you work on this assignment during Thanksgiving week and turn it in early if possible. I may offer extra credit for turning in the Concept Application Paper early!!! So keep a look out for that post!
December 8th - Graded Journals are due by 11:59pm. I would love to extend this deadline, but unfortunately due to Dead Day, and the final exam schedule, I am unable to do so. Grading the journals should be a simple process. You will read over two to three journals from your classmates and rate them in 4 different areas on a scale from 1-5. See the grading sheet posted on Blackboard to review the grading criteria. You will also provide a sentence or two of feedback. Grading each journal should not take too long, and you have approximately a week to complete your portion of the grading. (Remember, your journal is worth 100 points, and your participation in the grading process is worth 25 points. This means that your classmates will grade you on the 100 point portion of the assignment, and I will grade you on the 25 point portion of the assignment. Of course I will look over each journal to make sure that the grading is consistent and correct. More detail to come over the weekend.)
December 10-11 - Final Exam. This exam is open book and open notes. You are more than welcome to use any notes, chapter outlines, powerpoint presentations and of course your text. However, you are not allowed to share answers with each other, or distribute the questions per the academic integrity policy. You will have a person over 21 (any person not associated with this course) proctor your final exam for you. This simply means that the person watches you take your final exam to make sure you are not violating the academic integrity policy in any way. They will fill out their portion of the proctor form, then you will fill out your portion and either email (scan it into the computer and email it to me), fax it to the Comm. Dept., or send it through snail mail.
In order to ease your load a bit as the semester winds down, this week was the second to last discussion week. The final discussion week in this course is fairly simple and should require very little effort. I may change the questions for the last discussion week to make it even easier for you to complete, so stay tuned for that post as the time comes closer.
Journal Assignment Clarification
Hello Class!
When you put together your journal, please include the assignments in this order:
Journal #1 - Public Communication
Journal #2 - Nonverbal Communication
Journal #3 - Intercultural Communication
Journal #4 - Interpersonal Communication
Journal #5 - Communication and the Mass Media
Grading Sheets
I will email out the grading sheet in a word document over the weekend with additional instructions. You will be able to copy and paste the grading sheet right into your final journal at then end.
I hope this helps!
When you put together your journal, please include the assignments in this order:
Journal #1 - Public Communication
Journal #2 - Nonverbal Communication
Journal #3 - Intercultural Communication
Journal #4 - Interpersonal Communication
Journal #5 - Communication and the Mass Media
Grading Sheets
I will email out the grading sheet in a word document over the weekend with additional instructions. You will be able to copy and paste the grading sheet right into your final journal at then end.
I hope this helps!
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Journal Assignment
I have posted the grading sheet for the Journal Assignment. It is located on the "Projects" page for your review. Please use this grading sheet to get a better idea about how your classmates will be evaluating your work. I will send it out in a Microsoft Word document so you can attach it to the end of your journal before turning it in.
As a reminder, your completed Journal Assignment with all 5 journal entries is due by November 28th by 11:59pm. Since Nov. 28th is right after Thanksgiving, it is highly suggested that you plan around your holiday schedule.
I will send out more instructions as the time gets closer, but the first step is to complete all journal assignments and submit all 5 in ONE SINGLE word document by Nov. 28th. This means that you put your journals in order of occurrence into one single Microsoft Word document.
Let me know if you have questions about this. I'm here to help!
As a reminder, your completed Journal Assignment with all 5 journal entries is due by November 28th by 11:59pm. Since Nov. 28th is right after Thanksgiving, it is highly suggested that you plan around your holiday schedule.
I will send out more instructions as the time gets closer, but the first step is to complete all journal assignments and submit all 5 in ONE SINGLE word document by Nov. 28th. This means that you put your journals in order of occurrence into one single Microsoft Word document.
Let me know if you have questions about this. I'm here to help!
What's the point?
Hello Folks! There have been numerous objectives to be met in this course. To reiterate the point of the assignments: Blogging weekly, quizzes, readings, Cultural Event Paper, Concept Application Paper, Journal Assignment, etc..... I have listed out some ideas for your review answering the question WHY? Why are we writing papers? Why do we blog every week? Why do we interact so much with our classmates? Why do I have to do so much reading? It all comes down to the goals of the course, and the goals/requirements of the University. Expanding diversity on multiple levels within this class is a big goal. Read the list below and let me know if the purpose and goals of these assignments are still ambiguous. As you can see, each objective is aligned with University goals. So this list should answer the "WHY?" question.
1). These objectives give you opportunity to see what other folks in the class are writing about and discussing.
2). Some of these assignments allows you to give your opinion about your colleagues writing.
3). The journal assignment will diversify your grading as the instructor is not the only one evaluating your work. This is a positive thing, you'll see!
4). Each of these assignments are intellectually challenging.
5). The assignments increases diversity in the class on multiple levels.
6). Each assignment provides meaningful feedback, not only from the instructor, but from others in the class, thus diversifying grading, and understanding!
7). The assignments establish an atmosphere of community and enhanced learning.
8). Reinforces relevant course material from a number of different perspectives.
9). Helps you analyze complex and abstract ideas as presented by others relating to course material/content.
10). Applies course content in a real-world setting.
As always, I am available to chat with you over email, Yahoo Messenger, and my personal favorite - over the phone! I am committed to each student in this class, so if you need some extra help, please contact me ASAP.
I hope this list of objectives clarifies the "WHY?" question! Some folks go through classes while never truly understanding the point of their assignments. I will post this list a few more times before the end of the semester, just as a reminder of 'what it's all about'.
I hope you each have a fabulously happy Wednesday evening!
1). These objectives give you opportunity to see what other folks in the class are writing about and discussing.
2). Some of these assignments allows you to give your opinion about your colleagues writing.
3). The journal assignment will diversify your grading as the instructor is not the only one evaluating your work. This is a positive thing, you'll see!
4). Each of these assignments are intellectually challenging.
5). The assignments increases diversity in the class on multiple levels.
6). Each assignment provides meaningful feedback, not only from the instructor, but from others in the class, thus diversifying grading, and understanding!
7). The assignments establish an atmosphere of community and enhanced learning.
8). Reinforces relevant course material from a number of different perspectives.
9). Helps you analyze complex and abstract ideas as presented by others relating to course material/content.
10). Applies course content in a real-world setting.
As always, I am available to chat with you over email, Yahoo Messenger, and my personal favorite - over the phone! I am committed to each student in this class, so if you need some extra help, please contact me ASAP.
I hope this list of objectives clarifies the "WHY?" question! Some folks go through classes while never truly understanding the point of their assignments. I will post this list a few more times before the end of the semester, just as a reminder of 'what it's all about'.
I hope you each have a fabulously happy Wednesday evening!
Concept Application Paper
Hello All!
I just emailed out the revised version of the Concept Application Paper. I did not change the assignment at all, I merely attached the grading sheet to the assignment itself, so there is no confusion about how I will grade the paper.
It is my hope that each student earns an "A" on this assignment.
Please email me if you have any questions.
I just emailed out the revised version of the Concept Application Paper. I did not change the assignment at all, I merely attached the grading sheet to the assignment itself, so there is no confusion about how I will grade the paper.
It is my hope that each student earns an "A" on this assignment.
Please email me if you have any questions.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Week of November 15-21
Hello Class! I hope today finds you well. Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
*Read Chapter 11 - Communication and the Mass Media
*Participate in Week 13 discussion
*Start working on your final project in this course: The Concept Application Paper. Please review the grading rubric associated with this assignment before starting your paper. Your final paper is due on December 4th by 11:59pm.
*Complete your final Journal Entry. Your completed journal is due by Saturday, November 28th at 11:59pm. I will email out more direction about the Journal Assignment this week.
Class Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Have you made friendships that exist exclusively in cyberspace? If so, how are they different from f2f relationships? If you have not formed cyber relationships, why not?
2). Do you agree with Marshall McLuhan that the medium is the message, i.e. that the format or logic of a medium is as important as its content and, in fact, determines what content will be broadcast through that channel? Evaluate his idea that television is a cool medium.
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this discussion week.
REMINDER: Thursday, November 19th is a furlough day. I will not hold office hours online on this day. However, I will be on campus and will be available to meet in person. If you would like to meet with me on Nov. 19th, please email me so we can schedule a time to chat. I would love to meet with each and every one of you, if you have time! :)
*Read Chapter 11 - Communication and the Mass Media
*Participate in Week 13 discussion
*Start working on your final project in this course: The Concept Application Paper. Please review the grading rubric associated with this assignment before starting your paper. Your final paper is due on December 4th by 11:59pm.
*Complete your final Journal Entry. Your completed journal is due by Saturday, November 28th at 11:59pm. I will email out more direction about the Journal Assignment this week.
Class Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Have you made friendships that exist exclusively in cyberspace? If so, how are they different from f2f relationships? If you have not formed cyber relationships, why not?
2). Do you agree with Marshall McLuhan that the medium is the message, i.e. that the format or logic of a medium is as important as its content and, in fact, determines what content will be broadcast through that channel? Evaluate his idea that television is a cool medium.
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this discussion week.
REMINDER: Thursday, November 19th is a furlough day. I will not hold office hours online on this day. However, I will be on campus and will be available to meet in person. If you would like to meet with me on Nov. 19th, please email me so we can schedule a time to chat. I would love to meet with each and every one of you, if you have time! :)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Returning Papers
Hello Class!
I am working to finish the last group of papers today. I am racing against the clock to get them done tonight, before the looming furlough days coming up. You should expect to receive your papers (if you haven't already), late tonight.
If there are any questions or concerns about your paper/grade, please let me know. We can schedule a phone conference, chat over Yahoo Messenger or through email. I am very open to chatting with you about the assignments in this course. My goal is open communication, and this being the first paper returned to you since the first paper was canceled, you may have some questions. Please DO NOT hesitate to ask if there is any ambiguity or confusion.
We're all in this together! :)
I am working to finish the last group of papers today. I am racing against the clock to get them done tonight, before the looming furlough days coming up. You should expect to receive your papers (if you haven't already), late tonight.
If there are any questions or concerns about your paper/grade, please let me know. We can schedule a phone conference, chat over Yahoo Messenger or through email. I am very open to chatting with you about the assignments in this course. My goal is open communication, and this being the first paper returned to you since the first paper was canceled, you may have some questions. Please DO NOT hesitate to ask if there is any ambiguity or confusion.
We're all in this together! :)
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Week of November 8-14
Hello Class! Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
*Read Chapter 8 - Organizational Communication.
*Discussion for this week is canceled due to furloughs.
*There is a quiz this week on Chapters 6 & 8, so please log onto Blackboard to take the quiz. Remember, you have 20 minutes to complete your quiz.
Reminders:
1). There are two furlough days this week - November 12th and 13th. I will not be conducting University business on those two days.
2). Your papers will be returned mid-week. I will start returning them on Monday, and continue to return them through Wednesday. If furloughs interfere with returning the papers I will notify you through email.
*Read Chapter 8 - Organizational Communication.
*Discussion for this week is canceled due to furloughs.
*There is a quiz this week on Chapters 6 & 8, so please log onto Blackboard to take the quiz. Remember, you have 20 minutes to complete your quiz.
Reminders:
1). There are two furlough days this week - November 12th and 13th. I will not be conducting University business on those two days.
2). Your papers will be returned mid-week. I will start returning them on Monday, and continue to return them through Wednesday. If furloughs interfere with returning the papers I will notify you through email.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Grades Posted for 10/18-10/24
Hello All!
I have posted grades for the week of October 18th-24th. Please look at your score and email me if you have any questions.
I really enjoyed reading the posts for that week. Some folks had some very insightful thoughts. I also really enjoyed reading the comments for that week. It seems like the class is interacting well with agreeing, disagreeing and adding to the thoughts and opinions of others. This is exciting for me because you are all highlighting your diversity, yet interacting with each other respectfully. There is a certain richness that comes from interacting with each other, rather than just the instructor.
Good job!!!! :)
I have posted grades for the week of October 18th-24th. Please look at your score and email me if you have any questions.
I really enjoyed reading the posts for that week. Some folks had some very insightful thoughts. I also really enjoyed reading the comments for that week. It seems like the class is interacting well with agreeing, disagreeing and adding to the thoughts and opinions of others. This is exciting for me because you are all highlighting your diversity, yet interacting with each other respectfully. There is a certain richness that comes from interacting with each other, rather than just the instructor.
Good job!!!! :)
Early Bird Posts
Hello All! Here is a list of folks who have blogged already this week. Go ahead and stop by their blog to get a start on your comments for the week.
1986dman
Rena
addicted2shopping
Katla
Chivista
Tulip's Blog
Ibirapuera
marikamania
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
1986dman
Rena
addicted2shopping
Katla
Chivista
Tulip's Blog
Ibirapuera
marikamania
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Week of November 1-7
Hello Class! Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
*Read Chapter 6, Interpersonal Communication.
*Participate in Week 13 discussion.
*Complete Journal #4.
Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Which pattern (rigid complementarity, competitive symmetry, or submissive symmetry) do you think would be the most difficult to change? Why? Which would be the most damaging to a relationship? Which would be the most potentially damaging to the self-esteem of the individuals involved?
2). Think about the filters you use to eliminate people from consideration as potential romantic partners. What characteristics or behaviours lead you to judge others as unattractive? Does Duck's theory make sense to you? Have you ever eliminated someone by using a sociological or pre-interaction cue only to reconsider them based on interaction and cognitive cues?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have no already discussed, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.
***Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs.
REMINDER: November 5th is a furlough day. I will not be conducting any University business on this day.
*Read Chapter 6, Interpersonal Communication.
*Participate in Week 13 discussion.
*Complete Journal #4.
Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Which pattern (rigid complementarity, competitive symmetry, or submissive symmetry) do you think would be the most difficult to change? Why? Which would be the most damaging to a relationship? Which would be the most potentially damaging to the self-esteem of the individuals involved?
2). Think about the filters you use to eliminate people from consideration as potential romantic partners. What characteristics or behaviours lead you to judge others as unattractive? Does Duck's theory make sense to you? Have you ever eliminated someone by using a sociological or pre-interaction cue only to reconsider them based on interaction and cognitive cues?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that we have no already discussed, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.
***Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs.
REMINDER: November 5th is a furlough day. I will not be conducting any University business on this day.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Paper Submission
I will respond to each of your emails that contain your papers at some point tomorrow. It may be tomorrow night, as I will be away from my computer almost all day.
I hope each of you have a safe and enjoyable Halloween tomorrow.
UPDATE: I emailed each person this morning at approximately 6am on Oct. 31st confirming your paper submission. If you turned your paper in early, you would have received a confirmation email prior to this.
I hope each of you have a safe and enjoyable Halloween tomorrow.
UPDATE: I emailed each person this morning at approximately 6am on Oct. 31st confirming your paper submission. If you turned your paper in early, you would have received a confirmation email prior to this.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Impressive
Hello Class!
I had to take a minute to let you know how impressed I am. I have never had quite as many papers turned in so early before. Good job!!!!!
:)
Carol
I had to take a minute to let you know how impressed I am. I have never had quite as many papers turned in so early before. Good job!!!!!
:)
Carol
Monday, October 26, 2009
Cultural Event Paper Reminders
Hello Class!
I have already started receiving submissions for the Cultural Event Paper. As a reminder, please review the link called "Assign#2 - Cultural Event Rubric" located on the "Projects" page on Blackboard. This is how I will be evaluating your essays. Remember, I strive for total transparency when it comes to grading in this course. If there are ever any questions, please email me for clarification. I'm always here to help!
Also, please review the assignment sheet one last time before turning in your papers to make sure you have included everything required. There are two pages to the assignment sheet, so make sure you look at BOTH pages.
I look forward to receiving your papers, no later than 11:59pm on Friday, October 30th.
I have already started receiving submissions for the Cultural Event Paper. As a reminder, please review the link called "Assign#2 - Cultural Event Rubric" located on the "Projects" page on Blackboard. This is how I will be evaluating your essays. Remember, I strive for total transparency when it comes to grading in this course. If there are ever any questions, please email me for clarification. I'm always here to help!
Also, please review the assignment sheet one last time before turning in your papers to make sure you have included everything required. There are two pages to the assignment sheet, so make sure you look at BOTH pages.
I look forward to receiving your papers, no later than 11:59pm on Friday, October 30th.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Week of October 25-31
Here is what's listed on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
*Read Chapter 7
*Quiz on Blackboard (Chapters 7 & 12)
*Cultural Event Paper due by Friday, October 30th by 11:59pm. (Please review the grading rubric on Blackboard BEFORE turning in your assignment).
*Read Chapter 7
*Quiz on Blackboard (Chapters 7 & 12)
*Cultural Event Paper due by Friday, October 30th by 11:59pm. (Please review the grading rubric on Blackboard BEFORE turning in your assignment).
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Cultural Event Paper
Hello Class!
The deadline is fast approaching for the Cultural Event Paper. I hope you have had a good time at your chosen events so far.
As a reminder, there is a grading rubric on Blackboard located on the Handouts Page. It is called "CulturalEventRubric". This is the exact rubric I will use to grade your papers. Please look over it before turning in your final drafts - it will help you tremendously.
Also, use your Pocket Wadsworth Handbook for writing tips and follow the principles contained within that little book. It is amazingly helpful! (You can also go to the Writing Center on campus. Those guys are extremely helpful as well.)
I strive for absolute transparency when it comes to grading in this course. There should be no surprises or ambiguity about my grading practices if you look over the rubrics for the course projects (Cultural Event Paper, Concept Application Paper and Journal Assignment). If there is any residual ambiguity, please let me know and I would be more than happy to clarify anything that is unclear. I'm here to help! :)
The deadline is fast approaching for the Cultural Event Paper. I hope you have had a good time at your chosen events so far.
As a reminder, there is a grading rubric on Blackboard located on the Handouts Page. It is called "CulturalEventRubric". This is the exact rubric I will use to grade your papers. Please look over it before turning in your final drafts - it will help you tremendously.
Also, use your Pocket Wadsworth Handbook for writing tips and follow the principles contained within that little book. It is amazingly helpful! (You can also go to the Writing Center on campus. Those guys are extremely helpful as well.)
I strive for absolute transparency when it comes to grading in this course. There should be no surprises or ambiguity about my grading practices if you look over the rubrics for the course projects (Cultural Event Paper, Concept Application Paper and Journal Assignment). If there is any residual ambiguity, please let me know and I would be more than happy to clarify anything that is unclear. I'm here to help! :)
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Midterm
Hello Folks!
I am very please with the results from the midterm. Overall, your scores were higher than I expected - y'all are AWESOME!!!!! :)
A couple of people emailed me about one of the questions on the midterm. Since most people got the question wrong, I omitted it from the midterm.
If you check your score on the midterm you will notice that 4 points have been added to your original score. I added 2 points for the omitted question, and another 2 points to round out the curve. I normally do not grade on a curve, but I thought it was appropriate in this situation. So as a little gift to each of you, I have added 4 points to your midterm grades.
Let me know if you have any questions!
I am very please with the results from the midterm. Overall, your scores were higher than I expected - y'all are AWESOME!!!!! :)
A couple of people emailed me about one of the questions on the midterm. Since most people got the question wrong, I omitted it from the midterm.
If you check your score on the midterm you will notice that 4 points have been added to your original score. I added 2 points for the omitted question, and another 2 points to round out the curve. I normally do not grade on a curve, but I thought it was appropriate in this situation. So as a little gift to each of you, I have added 4 points to your midterm grades.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Early Bird Posts
Hello All! Here is a list of folks who have blogged already this week. Go ahead and stop by their blog to get a start on your comments for the week.
Rbros
CrushedVelvet23
GCL
1986dman
Rena
nessaw27
marikamania
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Rbros
CrushedVelvet23
GCL
1986dman
Rena
nessaw27
marikamania
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Week of October 18-24
Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week, along with a reminder at the end of the post:
*Read Chapter 12 - Intercultural Communication
*Participate in Week 9 Discussion
*Work on Journal #3
Class Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Do you agree with anthropologist Ruth Benedict that we are "creatures of our culture" and that our habits, beliefs, and impossibilities are shaped by our culture? If so, how can we break through the limits of our cultures?
2). Do you believe in the rationality, perfectibility, and mutability premises? What social institutions and practices are based on these beliefs?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed during this discussion week, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this discussion week.
REMINDER: Your Cultural Event Paper is due next Friday, October 30th by 11:59pm. I need to approve ALL events prior to attendance, so please email me with your choice of event if you have not done so already. Any papers received without a prior approval will receive a grade deduction.
*Read Chapter 12 - Intercultural Communication
*Participate in Week 9 Discussion
*Work on Journal #3
Class Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Do you agree with anthropologist Ruth Benedict that we are "creatures of our culture" and that our habits, beliefs, and impossibilities are shaped by our culture? If so, how can we break through the limits of our cultures?
2). Do you believe in the rationality, perfectibility, and mutability premises? What social institutions and practices are based on these beliefs?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed during this discussion week, that you found useful or interesting, and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this discussion week.
REMINDER: Your Cultural Event Paper is due next Friday, October 30th by 11:59pm. I need to approve ALL events prior to attendance, so please email me with your choice of event if you have not done so already. Any papers received without a prior approval will receive a grade deduction.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Office Hours Reminder
Hello Class!
I will be holding office hours today from 10am to 11am on Yahoo Messenger. I will be online quite a bit more than that today, on and off. If you see me on Yahoo Messenger, I am available to chat.
Let me know if you have any questions about the coming Cultural Event Assignment, midterm, or Journal Assignment.
I hope you all stay well on this wonderfully stormy and windy day! Stay warm, dry and safe today!
UPDATE!!!! It's about 10am right now and I'm actively on Yahoo Messenger. The wind is blowing really hard and the power might go out (I am not on campus in case you were wondering). If the power goes out, which is highly likely where I live, I will be unable to complete my office hours within the allotted time - but will be checking my email regularly when the power is on. I'm crossing my fingers that the power will stay on. :)
I will be holding office hours today from 10am to 11am on Yahoo Messenger. I will be online quite a bit more than that today, on and off. If you see me on Yahoo Messenger, I am available to chat.
Let me know if you have any questions about the coming Cultural Event Assignment, midterm, or Journal Assignment.
I hope you all stay well on this wonderfully stormy and windy day! Stay warm, dry and safe today!
UPDATE!!!! It's about 10am right now and I'm actively on Yahoo Messenger. The wind is blowing really hard and the power might go out (I am not on campus in case you were wondering). If the power goes out, which is highly likely where I live, I will be unable to complete my office hours within the allotted time - but will be checking my email regularly when the power is on. I'm crossing my fingers that the power will stay on. :)
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Week of October 11-17
Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
Midterm Examination on Blackboard. Please log into Blackboard during the week of October 11th-October 17th to take the midterm exam. The midterm covers Chapters 1-5 & 9-10. A study guide of terms is available on Blackboard, so download that and use it to guide your study sessions. The midterm is open book, open notes. Please DO NOT share answers, give assistance or accept assistance from others, or reveal test answers/questions.
Please plan ahead to take the midterm. Your midterm must be submitted prior to 11:59pm on Oct 17th. It is highly suggested that you take the midterm early in case you run into any technical difficulties.
You will have 75 minutes to complete the 50 question test. MAKE SURE you submit your test PRIOR to the end of the 75 minute time frame - watch the clock carefully!!!! Any questions that are submitted after the 75 minute time period will be disqualified from the exam and deducted from your total test score.
Good luck on the midterm! :)
As a reminder: The Cultural Event Paper is due on Oct 30th. It is required that I approve each Cultural Event PRIOR to the attendance of the event, and of course prior to the paper's due date. Please make sure to email me with the event you would like to attend for approval if you have not done so already.
Midterm Examination on Blackboard. Please log into Blackboard during the week of October 11th-October 17th to take the midterm exam. The midterm covers Chapters 1-5 & 9-10. A study guide of terms is available on Blackboard, so download that and use it to guide your study sessions. The midterm is open book, open notes. Please DO NOT share answers, give assistance or accept assistance from others, or reveal test answers/questions.
Please plan ahead to take the midterm. Your midterm must be submitted prior to 11:59pm on Oct 17th. It is highly suggested that you take the midterm early in case you run into any technical difficulties.
You will have 75 minutes to complete the 50 question test. MAKE SURE you submit your test PRIOR to the end of the 75 minute time frame - watch the clock carefully!!!! Any questions that are submitted after the 75 minute time period will be disqualified from the exam and deducted from your total test score.
Good luck on the midterm! :)
As a reminder: The Cultural Event Paper is due on Oct 30th. It is required that I approve each Cultural Event PRIOR to the attendance of the event, and of course prior to the paper's due date. Please make sure to email me with the event you would like to attend for approval if you have not done so already.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Grades are posted
Hello Class!
I have posted grades for the discussion week of Sept. 27 - Oct. 3. Please look over your grade and let me know if you have any questions.
Grading in this course should be fairly straightforward and fair to every student, however, if there are any questions about grading please email me for clarification. I am always here in case something is ambiguous or unclear.
Reminder: Tomorrow is a scheduled furlough day.
I have posted grades for the discussion week of Sept. 27 - Oct. 3. Please look over your grade and let me know if you have any questions.
Grading in this course should be fairly straightforward and fair to every student, however, if there are any questions about grading please email me for clarification. I am always here in case something is ambiguous or unclear.
Reminder: Tomorrow is a scheduled furlough day.
Chapter Outlines Posted
As a reminder, Chapter Outlines for the entire semester have already been uploaded to Blackboard. If you would like to review them, or print them out, they are located on the "Handouts" page.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Early Bird Posts
Hello All! Here is a list of folks who have blogged already this week. Go ahead and stop by their blog to get a start on your comments for the week.
Kolby
jrmcomm105
Rena
Commeleon
1986dman
marikamania
Ibirapuera
Rbros
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Kolby
jrmcomm105
Rena
Commeleon
1986dman
marikamania
Ibirapuera
Rbros
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Nonverbal Communication
I am very excited about this week's discussion. These are the weeks I wish I could talk to you all face to face so we could really get into a deep discussion about nonverbal communication and share what we have learned through our reading, and of course through our life experiences. While I was in school I participated in a Nonverbal Research Study as a research assistant, which was quite interesting. Although the statistics in that particular research study did not prove to be significant, my conjecture was that the sample size was too small.
Now that you are probably asking, "What was the study about?"....I'll tell you briefly in case you are interested. Dr. Tim Hegstrom who is the Dean of Social Sciences at this point in his career, videotaped dyads to see if their body positioning matched each other during the course of their 10 minute conversation. Most of the participants did have matching body language at some point in the discussion (An example of this would be where one person crosses their arm, and the other follows shortly after. This could either be matching or mirroring with body positioning with legs, arms, etc...). I analyzed the videos one by one (I think there were 50 or so 10 minute videos) and recorded their body positioning to reflect matching, mirroring, or no correlation at all. I stopped the video every minute and recorded their body positions. Like I said, when we ran the statistics through SPSS (a statistical database), the results were not significant. But, had the research been done a bit differently, it absolutely would have produced statistically significant results. Had it proved significant, we probably would have been published in a Communication Journal, but alas, it was not written in the stars. :)
Needless to say, Nonverbal Communication interests me quite a bit. My husband's family is constantly trying to figure out if I'm analyzing them. Just this past weekend, one of his family members looked over to a few people and asked me what their body language was saying. Of course this sparked a very interesting conversation between a few people, myself included.
Have fun with this weeks discussion, and don't forget to download the midterm study sheet from Blackboard to prepare for your midterm next week.
Now that you are probably asking, "What was the study about?"....I'll tell you briefly in case you are interested. Dr. Tim Hegstrom who is the Dean of Social Sciences at this point in his career, videotaped dyads to see if their body positioning matched each other during the course of their 10 minute conversation. Most of the participants did have matching body language at some point in the discussion (An example of this would be where one person crosses their arm, and the other follows shortly after. This could either be matching or mirroring with body positioning with legs, arms, etc...). I analyzed the videos one by one (I think there were 50 or so 10 minute videos) and recorded their body positioning to reflect matching, mirroring, or no correlation at all. I stopped the video every minute and recorded their body positions. Like I said, when we ran the statistics through SPSS (a statistical database), the results were not significant. But, had the research been done a bit differently, it absolutely would have produced statistically significant results. Had it proved significant, we probably would have been published in a Communication Journal, but alas, it was not written in the stars. :)
Needless to say, Nonverbal Communication interests me quite a bit. My husband's family is constantly trying to figure out if I'm analyzing them. Just this past weekend, one of his family members looked over to a few people and asked me what their body language was saying. Of course this sparked a very interesting conversation between a few people, myself included.
Have fun with this weeks discussion, and don't forget to download the midterm study sheet from Blackboard to prepare for your midterm next week.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Week of October 4-10
Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
*Read Chapter 5: Encoding Messages: Nonverbal Communication
*Reminder, your midterm exam is due next week. Please print out the Midterm Review sheet from Blackboard.
*Start working on Journal #2! (I will post the evaluation sheet this week, so be sure to look at that and tailor your entries accordingly. I will post a note on my blog when that sheet is uploaded.)
Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Because nonverbal messages can be ambiguous, they are open to misinterpretation. Have you ever been wrong about the meaning of someones nonverbal message? Describe what happened. How can people increase the accuracy with which they interpret nonverbal message?
2). Although nonverbal messages are more universal than verbal messages, nonverbals do not always carry the same meanings in other cultures. Can you give examples of some of the nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries? If you have moved around within this country, have you ever encountered regional differences in nonverbal meaning?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed this week, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this weeks discussion.
REMINDER: October 8th is a furlough day. I will not hold office hours, answer emails or conduct other SJSU business on that day.
*Read Chapter 5: Encoding Messages: Nonverbal Communication
*Reminder, your midterm exam is due next week. Please print out the Midterm Review sheet from Blackboard.
*Start working on Journal #2! (I will post the evaluation sheet this week, so be sure to look at that and tailor your entries accordingly. I will post a note on my blog when that sheet is uploaded.)
Discussion: Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Because nonverbal messages can be ambiguous, they are open to misinterpretation. Have you ever been wrong about the meaning of someones nonverbal message? Describe what happened. How can people increase the accuracy with which they interpret nonverbal message?
2). Although nonverbal messages are more universal than verbal messages, nonverbals do not always carry the same meanings in other cultures. Can you give examples of some of the nonverbal displays that take on different meanings in other countries? If you have moved around within this country, have you ever encountered regional differences in nonverbal meaning?
3). Pick one concept from the assigned reading, that has not already been discussed this week, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs during this weeks discussion.
REMINDER: October 8th is a furlough day. I will not hold office hours, answer emails or conduct other SJSU business on that day.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Listening in Action
Every time I read through Chapter 3 I am reminded of a very important process - Paraphrasing. This concept is part of Empathic Listening as discussed on page 60-61. I love this concept for a few reasons, but mostly because I try to practice this continually with family, friends, loved ones and even students. I think it's very important that people feel like they are heard, especially those folks who have close relationships.
I have found that most students think they practice Empathic Listening, but most listen for other reasons. Some folks listen just long enough to gain enough ammunition to fight back, but never really hear what the other person is saying. Deconstructing messages, and really trying to hear the other person is quite important when in a discussion, and even more important when two people disagree. Of course each party wants to be heard, but as I mentioned, a lot of folks listen just long enough to find something that they are able to respond to. Some folks do not listen at all, rather formulate what they are going to say next while the other person is expressing how they feel.
Have you ever actively engaged in paraphrasing when in a discussion? If so, what was the outcome of the situation?
There are many other interesting concepts that are covered in Chapter 3 such as, Improving Attention, Improving Interpretation, Improving Evaluation, Improving Responses and Improving Storage and Retrieval. Of course other sub-concepts in this chapter are really interesting as well such as Person Prototypes (page 51) and Responding (page 61).
At the beginning of every semester in my f2f (face to face) classes I discuss the idea that "One cannot not communicate". (I am not a big fan of Wikkipedia, but here is a link to Paul Watzlawick's page which describes his five (5) basic axioms. A quick read, and interesting if you have never heard about Watzlawick). Back to my point: On page 61 it talks about this very idea. It says, "...you are always responding in some way to the people around you, whether you are saying anything or not". Messages are constantly being sent by you and by those around you. I try to explain this to students by using their body language during a long lecture as an example. What does it say to an instructor when you lean back in your chair, are staring out the window, or my personal favorite - drawing pictures when you should be engaged in the lecture or discussion? Is this a message you would like to send? Or is this a byproduct of boredom?
In short, Chapter 3 is pretty cool for a number of reasons. It really breaks down the listening process and points out how we can improve this process if we pay a little more attention to our behavior.
What do you think about this chapter?
I have found that most students think they practice Empathic Listening, but most listen for other reasons. Some folks listen just long enough to gain enough ammunition to fight back, but never really hear what the other person is saying. Deconstructing messages, and really trying to hear the other person is quite important when in a discussion, and even more important when two people disagree. Of course each party wants to be heard, but as I mentioned, a lot of folks listen just long enough to find something that they are able to respond to. Some folks do not listen at all, rather formulate what they are going to say next while the other person is expressing how they feel.
Have you ever actively engaged in paraphrasing when in a discussion? If so, what was the outcome of the situation?
There are many other interesting concepts that are covered in Chapter 3 such as, Improving Attention, Improving Interpretation, Improving Evaluation, Improving Responses and Improving Storage and Retrieval. Of course other sub-concepts in this chapter are really interesting as well such as Person Prototypes (page 51) and Responding (page 61).
At the beginning of every semester in my f2f (face to face) classes I discuss the idea that "One cannot not communicate". (I am not a big fan of Wikkipedia, but here is a link to Paul Watzlawick's page which describes his five (5) basic axioms. A quick read, and interesting if you have never heard about Watzlawick). Back to my point: On page 61 it talks about this very idea. It says, "...you are always responding in some way to the people around you, whether you are saying anything or not". Messages are constantly being sent by you and by those around you. I try to explain this to students by using their body language during a long lecture as an example. What does it say to an instructor when you lean back in your chair, are staring out the window, or my personal favorite - drawing pictures when you should be engaged in the lecture or discussion? Is this a message you would like to send? Or is this a byproduct of boredom?
In short, Chapter 3 is pretty cool for a number of reasons. It really breaks down the listening process and points out how we can improve this process if we pay a little more attention to our behavior.
What do you think about this chapter?
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Early Bird Posts
Hello All! Here is a list of folks who have blogged already this week. Go ahead and stop by their blog to get a start on your comments for the week.
marikamania
GCL
Kolby
Ibirapuera
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
marikamania
GCL
Kolby
Ibirapuera
Let's congratulate these folks for getting an early start! Good job!!!!!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Week of September 27-October 3
Hello Class!
Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
1). Read Chapter 3 - Listening and Perception & Chapter 4 - Encoding Messages: Spoken Language
2). Review the details of Assignment #2 - Cultural Event Paper. Email me by Friday, October 2nd @ 11:59pm for event approval.
3). Participate in the class discussion this week:
Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Is it possible to perceive others without judging or categorizing them? If so, how? If not, how can we make the judgments we do make, more fair?
2). Do you agree that men and women use language differently? In what areas?
3). Pick on concept from the assigned reading, not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs.
Looking Ahead
*Journal Entry #2 should be completed next week. Please click on the Label "Journal Tips" on the right hand side of my blog. Clicking on that will bring up all posts related to the Journal Assignment that I have posted so far. Pay particular attention to THIS post. Reminder: All journal entries will be due on November 28th @ 11:59pm. The week of November 28th is Thanksgiving week. You may submit your journals early if you are going to be out of town.
*Midterm - Our midterm is scheduled for the week of October 11th - 17th. Go ahead and start studying for that. It will cover Chapters 1-5, 9&10.
*Cultural Event Project - This project is due by October 30th @ 11:59pm. You will submit this project through email. Be sure to plan ahead so you can submit your paper by the deadline.
Personal Note:
I am very excited about the content of the course for the next few discussion weeks. Actually, I love the content of the course in general, but this week and next week are very interesting to me. I will post to my blog about a concept or two from the chapters this week, so look out for that post.
Here is what's on the Schedule and Participation Pages for this week:
1). Read Chapter 3 - Listening and Perception & Chapter 4 - Encoding Messages: Spoken Language
2). Review the details of Assignment #2 - Cultural Event Paper. Email me by Friday, October 2nd @ 11:59pm for event approval.
3). Participate in the class discussion this week:
Answer one in each of your three posts, at least 12 hours apart:
1). Is it possible to perceive others without judging or categorizing them? If so, how? If not, how can we make the judgments we do make, more fair?
2). Do you agree that men and women use language differently? In what areas?
3). Pick on concept from the assigned reading, not already discussed, that you found useful or interesting and discuss it.
Remember to post 3 responses to your colleagues blogs.
Looking Ahead
*Journal Entry #2 should be completed next week. Please click on the Label "Journal Tips" on the right hand side of my blog. Clicking on that will bring up all posts related to the Journal Assignment that I have posted so far. Pay particular attention to THIS post. Reminder: All journal entries will be due on November 28th @ 11:59pm. The week of November 28th is Thanksgiving week. You may submit your journals early if you are going to be out of town.
*Midterm - Our midterm is scheduled for the week of October 11th - 17th. Go ahead and start studying for that. It will cover Chapters 1-5, 9&10.
*Cultural Event Project - This project is due by October 30th @ 11:59pm. You will submit this project through email. Be sure to plan ahead so you can submit your paper by the deadline.
Personal Note:
I am very excited about the content of the course for the next few discussion weeks. Actually, I love the content of the course in general, but this week and next week are very interesting to me. I will post to my blog about a concept or two from the chapters this week, so look out for that post.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Journal Assignments
Hello Class!
There seems to be some lingering confusion about the Journal Assignment. Please read over THIS post, and THIS post again.
There is also a label on my blog, lower right hand side called "Journal Tips". Anytime I post about the Journal Assignment I will label it so you don't have to search my blog.
To summarize, all Journal Entries (all 5) will be due on the same day - Saturday, November 28th. On this date you will compile all of you journal entries and email them to me. I will briefly look over them and then email them to each member of your group (I have not assigned groups yet). Once you have received your classmates journal entries, you will have a couple of weeks to evaluate them and return them back to me. Once they are returned to me, I will look over the evaluations, compile them, and return your journal entries back to you with feedback from your group members and an assigned grade.
Let me know if there are more questions about this! :)
There seems to be some lingering confusion about the Journal Assignment. Please read over THIS post, and THIS post again.
There is also a label on my blog, lower right hand side called "Journal Tips". Anytime I post about the Journal Assignment I will label it so you don't have to search my blog.
To summarize, all Journal Entries (all 5) will be due on the same day - Saturday, November 28th. On this date you will compile all of you journal entries and email them to me. I will briefly look over them and then email them to each member of your group (I have not assigned groups yet). Once you have received your classmates journal entries, you will have a couple of weeks to evaluate them and return them back to me. Once they are returned to me, I will look over the evaluations, compile them, and return your journal entries back to you with feedback from your group members and an assigned grade.
Let me know if there are more questions about this! :)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Office Hours Reminder
Hello Class!
As a reminder, you can chat with me in real time on Tuesday's and Thursday's from 10am to 11am. I'm usually on Yahoo Messenger quite a bit more than that, so if you see me on and want to chat, just pop in. I love chatting with students no matter the hour! Sometimes I'm on Yahoo pretty late.
You are more than welcome to chat with me about anything. It is my hope that this class is completely transparent and that there is no ambiguity. So if there is ever a question about, well, anything, please email me or pop in to chat.
I have very much enjoyed meeting some of you on Yahoo Messenger, and chatting over email. I hope to get to know the rest of you better as time moves on in the class.
ON CAMPUS!!! I will be on campus tomorrow from about 11am to 4pm. I will not be in my office the whole time, but if you want to stop by and say hi, let me know what time you will be around and I will tell you where I'll be on campus. I spend most of my time in the HGH building, but will be in a few different places tomorrow.
As a reminder, you can chat with me in real time on Tuesday's and Thursday's from 10am to 11am. I'm usually on Yahoo Messenger quite a bit more than that, so if you see me on and want to chat, just pop in. I love chatting with students no matter the hour! Sometimes I'm on Yahoo pretty late.
You are more than welcome to chat with me about anything. It is my hope that this class is completely transparent and that there is no ambiguity. So if there is ever a question about, well, anything, please email me or pop in to chat.
I have very much enjoyed meeting some of you on Yahoo Messenger, and chatting over email. I hope to get to know the rest of you better as time moves on in the class.
ON CAMPUS!!! I will be on campus tomorrow from about 11am to 4pm. I will not be in my office the whole time, but if you want to stop by and say hi, let me know what time you will be around and I will tell you where I'll be on campus. I spend most of my time in the HGH building, but will be in a few different places tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Quiz Reminder
Hello Class!
I am very pleased that some of you have found the list of Cultural Events useful. If possible, please try to contribute to the class community by finding an approved event so others in the class have more options.
As a reminder, there is a quiz this week. You should log into Blackboard and click on Assessments on the left. You should see that Quiz 2 is available. Please click on the quiz once you are ready to start.
***You are more than welcome to use your book, any of the chapter outlines that are posted on Blackboard and even the Powerpoint Slides I have posted.***
You should submit your quiz before the 20 minute time limit. Any questions submitted after the 20 minute time limit will not count in your quiz grade, so watch your time carefully.
If you want to get a head start on the discussion questions for next week, the questions are located on the Participation Page on Blackboard. If you get a head start, please post within the time limit (starting Sunday at 12:01am), and not early.
I'm always available to answer questions for you - just email, catch me on Yahoo Messenger or if you'd like, we can chat on the phone. (I like chatting with students over the phone because it actually puts the 'person' back into the equation. Sometimes folks forget there really is a person on the other end of the computer).
Have a fabulously wonderful day everyone!!! :)
I am very pleased that some of you have found the list of Cultural Events useful. If possible, please try to contribute to the class community by finding an approved event so others in the class have more options.
As a reminder, there is a quiz this week. You should log into Blackboard and click on Assessments on the left. You should see that Quiz 2 is available. Please click on the quiz once you are ready to start.
***You are more than welcome to use your book, any of the chapter outlines that are posted on Blackboard and even the Powerpoint Slides I have posted.***
You should submit your quiz before the 20 minute time limit. Any questions submitted after the 20 minute time limit will not count in your quiz grade, so watch your time carefully.
If you want to get a head start on the discussion questions for next week, the questions are located on the Participation Page on Blackboard. If you get a head start, please post within the time limit (starting Sunday at 12:01am), and not early.
I'm always available to answer questions for you - just email, catch me on Yahoo Messenger or if you'd like, we can chat on the phone. (I like chatting with students over the phone because it actually puts the 'person' back into the equation. Sometimes folks forget there really is a person on the other end of the computer).
Have a fabulously wonderful day everyone!!! :)
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
