What is Your Theoretical Orientation?

Personal reflection: “What is Your Theoretical Orientation?”

This assignment is designed to prompt you to explore the dimensions of your personal theoretical
orientation. We spent the first several weeks of class discussing various schemas that can be used to categorize the theories and questions they raise and seek to answer. In this reflection I want you to articulate the viewpoints that most closely align with your own views. This is not a definitive declaration and is not meant to limit you, but rather to encourage you to make a deeper connection with the material.

OUTLINE:

Part 1 – Defining Communication
2 paragraphs
How do you define communication? In your answer, be sure to address what it means for
“communication to be central.”

Part 2 – Philosophical Assumptions
4 paragraphs
Define epistemology, ontology, and axiology. Within each section be sure to address the questions each paradigm raises, and which perspective do you agree with most. Note, you do not need to address every aspect of the 3 perspectives, but rather you should focus on the elements with which you most strongly agree.

Part 3 – Craig’s Traditions of Communication Theory
6 paragraphs
This section requires you to synthesize a framework for organizing theory with a tradition of
communication theory. First, select a tradition for organizing theory that you favor most (see readings and slides). Explain the framework providing a definition for any necessary concepts. Next,
select and explain the tradition of Communication theory you find the most interesting. How do the framework and tradition align? Or does it?

Part 4 – Conclusion
2 paragraphs
This final section is an opportunity for you to reflect on how taking an intentional and theoretical look at communication changes your views of it. Or, in other words, to position communication as central rather than peripheral. In your response, you can address how this impacts the way you view communication in your personal, professional, and civic life.

Submission Guidelines
· 1-inch margins
· Times New Roman font
· Correct use of MLA or APA citation
· Sources: You are only required to use the PP slides and lecture notes.
· The length for each section listed above is the minimum requirement. You may exceed the limit

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