COMM 277 Week 8 Assignment Template: Evaluation and Reflection

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Online Management

The use of technological advances continues to shape our daily interactions, especially through social media. However, managing privacy and self-disclosures online has become increasingly difficult in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. To protect my personal information from being exposed by individuals, corporations, or hackers, I apply Communication Privacy Management (CPM) theory to determine what I share on social media (Nickerson, 2020). Through CPM, I have gained an understanding of how privacy and self-disclosure frameworks operate in online environments. For example, CPM theory has enabled me to establish boundaries between my personal and professional life, guiding what I choose to disclose. As a result, I have developed effective strategies for safeguarding my online activities while continuing to enjoy the benefits of internet use.

On another note, I believe it is unethical for school officials or potential employers to make decisions about admissions or hiring based on what they learn from an individual’s online presence. Using social media to screen applicants is not an objective process, especially if the Civil Rights Act (CRA) protects the individual’s online information (Nickerson, 2020). Such screening can significantly influence decision-making processes, making schools and employers liable for violating personal privacy. Thus, both academic and employment institutions should reconsider the practice of gathering personal information in this manner. Nonetheless, despite these ethical concerns, social media screening remains one of the easiest ways to assess whether individuals are reliable, respectful, and responsible.

PowerPoint Process

Throughout the process of organizing my PowerPoint presentation, I found the structured approach to be particularly helpful. I learned that each slide should focus on a specific topic and be accompanied by lecture notes to further elaborate on the points presented. Additionally, I discovered that a well-organized PowerPoint presentation should consist of an introduction, the main content, and a conclusion. This format ensures that all aspects of the topic are covered and presented clearly, leaving no information out.

Another valuable lesson I learned while designing the slides was the importance of proper planning before starting the actual presentation. Knowing the audience and conducting thorough research prior to the presentation is essential for delivering an effective performance. Ensuring that the slides are free from grammatical errors and that the content is presented concisely in bullet points further enhances the effectiveness of the presentation. For instance, when delivering a 10- to 15-minute presentation, it is ideal to include only three key points on each slide to maintain clarity (Bright, 2018).

Finally, when it came to turning my notes into a class lesson using PowerPoint, I found it helpful to arrange the key points in a logical order and support them with arguments, discussions, and analysis. This allowed me to present a balanced and reasonable view of the topic. Additionally, I avoided using overly complex graphics or tables, opting instead for engaging and visually appealing information that encouraged student learning. Teaching through a PowerPoint presentation follows a structured instructional procedure that keeps the lesson running smoothly and efficiently in the classroom.

Table: Key Points of Online Management and PowerPoint Process

References

Bright, S. (2018). Microsoft PowerPoint: Creating a presentation, tips for creating and delivering an effective presentation, and marketing your brand through PowerPoint presentation.

COMM 277 Week 8 Assignment Template: Evaluation and Reflection

Nickerson, H. (2020). Shield your privacy: 15 ways to protect your personal information.

COMM 277 Week 7 Discussion: Communication Aids

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Discussion: Communication Aids

Title: Delivery of a Speech

Summary

The video I selected is by Dr. Laura Penn, where she explores the importance of delivering a speech effectively. She emphasizes that a speaker should be fully present during their presentation, which she explains by breaking down the word “presentation.” Dr. Penn points out that being present means avoiding filler words, refraining from apologizing unnecessarily, and staying open to the audience by maintaining open body language, such as avoiding crossing arms. These behaviors, when neglected, can lead to a poor or “BAD” (Broken and Dysfunctional) presentation. Penn further explains that delivering an effective presentation involves treating it as a gift to the audience. By adopting a positive mindset, speakers can enhance their message delivery. Finally, Dr. Penn suggests that public speaking is a performance and mastering it can make the speaker’s message impactful.

Helpful to Others

According to Dr. Penn (2017), effective public speaking involves more than just conveying a message; it also requires performing that message in a way that captivates the audience. She outlines four key elements of a successful presentation: appearance, voice, body language, and audience connection. These elements help create a polished delivery and a meaningful connection with the audience. McLean (2018) adds that a speaker should also ensure clarity of main points, provide adequate support for each argument, and use transitions to guide listeners smoothly through the presentation. By integrating these components, anyone can improve their public speaking skills and deliver a compelling speech.

Helpful to Self

I will apply the information from the video in several ways when preparing my own PowerPoint presentation. First, I will take care of the visual appearance of my slides by ensuring they are clean, concise, and visually engaging. Secondly, I will incorporate Dr. Penn’s advice about mindset, making sure I am mentally prepared to deliver my presentation with confidence and enthusiasm. Finally, I will focus on creating compelling content that keeps my audience engaged throughout, as suggested by both Penn and McLean. This attention to detail will help me deliver a more effective and polished presentation.

COMM 277 Week 7 Discussion: Communication Aids

References

McLean, S. (2018). Chapter 3: Language and Verbal Communication. In Exploring Interpersonal Communication (2nd Edition, pp. 127-176). FlatWorld.

Penn, L. (2017, January 23). Public Speaking: How to make your message matter | Laura Penn | TEDxHSG. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGqBv5_wCRA.

COMM 277 Week 6 Assignment Template:Outline Final Draft

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Finding Confidence Through Patient Handoffs in the Emergency Setting

Presenter: Connor R. Hill
Audience: EMTs, Students, and New Healthcare Providers
School: Chamberlain University College of Nursing
Date: February 7th, 2021

General Topic: Verbal Communication
Specific Topic: Becoming more confident when delivering information to others
Thesis Statement: I aim to become more confident when presenting patient handoffs to other caregivers by addressing three areas of communication while working in emergency medicine.

Introduction

Effective communication is not just about sharing information but about ensuring that the message is conveyed and understood clearly. The general concept of communication involves the exchange of ideas. However, this concept differs from effective communication. A classic example of ineffective communication is the childhood game “telephone.” In this game, a message is whispered from person to person, often resulting in a final message that is significantly different from the original. This example highlights how communication can break down when clarity is lost.

Effective communication, on the other hand, involves asking clarifying questions and repeating messages to ensure understanding. This is particularly important in emergency medical settings, where accurate information is critical. In my experience as an EMT, I struggled with balancing the efficiency required in emergency care with the need for effective communication. Over time, I realized that I needed to improve my communication skills, especially in patient handoffs, to provide better care.

In this speech, I will share how I have worked to become more confident in presenting patient handoffs by focusing on three key areas: making eye contact, speaking clearly and concisely, and omitting unnecessary information.

Body

Main Point 1: Increase Eye Contact When Delivering Information

Eye contact is an essential component of communication. It establishes a connection between the speaker and the listener, enhancing the clarity and impact of the message. Knowing when, where, and how to use eye contact during patient handoffs is crucial. This involves being mindful of the situation and audience, as eye contact can convey confidence and professionalism. According to Kessler et al. (2015), eye contact is a critical part of effective communication in the emergency setting.

Main Point 2: Clearly and Concisely Articulate Information

Speaking clearly is essential to ensure the message is understood. This means focusing on articulation, enunciation, and the logical presentation of information. When delivering a report in a medical setting, it’s important to be mindful of where to stand and who to address. Techniques such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) can be helpful in structuring communication, as described by Shahid and Thomas (2018). Clear and concise articulation is vital in fast-paced environments like emergency departments (Troyer & Brady, 2020).

Main Point 3: Leave Out Unnecessary Information

Including irrelevant details can overwhelm the listener and obscure important information. Effective communication requires the ability to discern which details are essential and which can be omitted. Providing too much information can confuse the receiving caregiver and reduce the effectiveness of the handoff. Understanding the balance between providing enough detail and avoiding information overload is key to improving communication, as supported by Friesen et al. (2008).

Conclusion

As caregivers, we are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the well-being of our patients, and effective communication plays a critical role in fulfilling this duty. By focusing on three key aspects—eye contact, clear articulation, and eliminating unnecessary information—healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes, foster stronger professional relationships, and reduce healthcare costs. If we are mindful of these three elements, we can replace mere communication with effective communication, resulting in better patient care.

Table: Key Aspects of Effective Patient Handoffs

References

Choosing Wisely Canada. (n.d.). More is not always better [Image of a hotdog with too much mustard]. Choosing Wisely Canada. https://choosingwiselycanada.org/campaign/more-is-not-always-better/.

Friesen, M. A., White, S. V., & Byers, J. F. (2008). Handoffs: Implications for nurses. In Patient safety and quality: An evidence-based handbook for nurses. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

Kessler, C., Tadisina, K., Saks, M., Franzen, D., Woods, R., Banh, K., … Schwartz, A. (2015). The 5Cs of consultation: Training medical students to communicate effectively in the emergency department. The Journal of Emergency Medicine, 49(5), 713–721. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jemermed.2015.05.012

Kolleshi, A., & Kiess, C. (2020). Designing for the “new normal” in healthcare [Image of eyes behind a mask]. UX Collective. https://uxdesign.cc/designing-for-the-new-normal-in-healthcare-7f5c57faed87.

Leonardo. (2020). [Image of two triangles]. Top-down or bottom-up? Leonardo’s Blog. https://blog.chiariglione.org/top-down-or-bottom-up/.

COMM 277 Week 6 Assignment Template:Outline Final Draft

Shahid, S., & Thomas, S. (2018). SBAR communication tool for handoff in healthcare: A narrative review. Safety in Health, 4(7). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40886-018-0073-1

Troyer, L., & Brady, W. (2020). Barriers to effective EMS to emergency department information transfer at patient handover: A systematic review. The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 38(7), 1494–1503. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2020.04.036

Watts, M. (2016). 5 keys of effective communication in the workplace [Image of effective communication]. Independence Plus. https://www.independenceplus.com/5-keys-of-effective-communication-in-the-workplace/

WikiHow. (2020). How to play the telephone game [Image of boys playing “rumor” variation]. https://www.wikihow.com/Play-the-Telephone-Game

COMM 277 Week 5 Assignment Template: Slide Analysis and Outline

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Part A: Slide Analysis

Slide 1: What Works Well

The primary strength of the first slide lies in its contrast. The dark font against the light background enhances readability, allowing the text to be easily visible and legible.

Slide 1: What Needs to be Improved

There are several areas that need improvement in the first slide. First, the title should be enlarged to enhance visibility. Additionally, the font of the paragraph is overly intricate, making it difficult to read. The paragraph itself is also too long and could benefit from being condensed to a simpler form. Lastly, the citation should be repositioned to the bottom right corner of the slide instead of being placed immediately after the paragraph.

Slide 2: What Works Well

The graph serves as a strong visual aid and is one of the positive aspects of the second slide. Its inclusion enhances the presentation.

Slide 2: What Needs to be Improved

However, the slide can be improved by changing the background. The current dark background, coupled with the dark graph, reduces the contrast, making the content harder to see. Additionally, the slide lacks a title or any explanation of the graph, which makes it difficult for the audience to interpret the data. The bottom of the graph appears cluttered with letters, adding to the confusion regarding the graph’s purpose.

Slide 3: What Works Well

The images on the third slide are visually appealing, and the contrast between the pictures and the background works well, creating a cohesive and balanced look.

Slide 3: What Needs to be Improved

To enhance the third slide, a title should be added to provide context for the images. Including a brief description of the pictures would further aid viewers in understanding their relevance.

Part B: Outline Rough Draft

General Topic:

Communication, technology, and social media

Specific Topic:

The effectiveness of social media as a communication tool

Thesis Statement:

Social media, utilized by nearly everyone, serves as an effective communication tool.

Main Point #1:

Emailing and instant messaging are more concise and frequent compared to traditional letters.

Main Point #2:

Social media is versatile, facilitating both personal and professional communication.

Main Point #3:

It enables individuals who may not communicate regularly to stay connected more easily.

References

Baruah, T. (2012). Effectiveness of social media as a tool of communication and its potential for technology-enabled connections: A micro-level study. International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications, 2(5), 1-10.

Kaplan, A., & Haenlein, M. (2010). Users of the world, unite! The challenges and opportunities of social media. Business Horizons, 53, 59-68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bushor.2009.09.003

COMM 277 Week 5 Assignment Template: Slide Analysis and Outline

Sponcil, M., & Gitimu, P. (n.d.). Use of social media by college students: Relationship to communication and self-concept. Journal of Technology Research, 1-13.

Wang, P., Morgan, B., Packard, P., Goode, V., & Tola, D. (2020). Maximizing use of social media to improve member engagement in a professional organization. AANA Journal, 88(6), 473-478.

COMM 277 Week 4 Assignment 2 Template – Topic and Organization

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Reflection: The Crucial Role of Listening in Communication

Listening is an essential skill for effective communication, and I chose this topic because of its significance in today’s fast-paced world. With numerous communication channels and divided attention spans, attentive listening has become a rarity. However, without actively listening, messages in a conversation can be misunderstood or poorly expressed. Through active listening, we can better absorb and understand information, leading to more successful and meaningful exchanges.

Listening is a key indicator of one’s ability to process information during communication. Unlike hearing, which is simply the perception of sound, listening involves engaging with the speaker and focusing on understanding the message being conveyed. By developing strong listening skills, we move beyond hearing words to fully comprehending their intended meaning. This ability helps bridge communication gaps and ensures more effective interactions.

Effective communication extends beyond cultural boundaries. In our increasingly diverse world, the ability to listen carefully is crucial when interacting across different cultures. Active listening helps us grasp not only the spoken words but also the cultural nuances and subtext. This fosters a deeper connection with individuals from various backgrounds, demonstrating respect and a willingness to understand their perspectives.

Moreover, attentive listening has benefits that extend beyond comprehension. It improves productivity and enhances the clarity of communication. By fully focusing on the speaker, we can avoid misunderstandings, reduce the need for clarification, and respond in a more informed and relevant manner. Engaging in such a way enhances efficiency in professional settings, personal relationships, and individual growth.

To become skilled listeners, various strategies should be employed. One important technique is minimizing distractions. In an age of constant notifications and stimuli, maintaining focus during conversations is difficult. However, setting aside these distractions allows us to give the speaker our undivided attention, fostering an environment conducive to effective communication. This presence and attentiveness signal respect and show that the speaker’s words are valued.

COMM 277 Week 4 Assignment 2 Template – Topic and Organization

Active listening is also demonstrated through verbal and non-verbal cues. Offering affirmations or nodding in agreement encourages the speaker to continue, confirming that their thoughts are understood and appreciated. This creates an atmosphere of trust and openness, making individuals feel heard and respected.

Avoiding interruptions and pre-judgment is another crucial aspect of effective listening. Interrupting a speaker not only disrupts their flow of thought but also suggests a lack of respect for their viewpoint. Patience in allowing the speaker to express their ideas fully shows our commitment to understanding their perspective. Additionally, withholding judgment until the speaker has shared their thoughts enables more unbiased and empathetic communication.

I explored three sources to gain deeper insights into the importance of listening. The first, Six Ways to Become a Better Listener, offers practical steps for improving listening skills. It highlights the importance of being fully present, avoiding distractions, and engaging actively in the conversation. Implementing these strategies promotes a deeper understanding and connection with others.

Table: The Role of Listening in Communication

References

Goulston, M. (2015). Six Ways to Become a Better Listener. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2015/07/six-ways-to-become-a-better-listener

COMM 277 Week 4 Assignment 1 Template – Team Outline Exercise

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Part 1: The Three Cs of Credibility

Credibility is fundamental in determining a speaker’s trustworthiness and persuasiveness. The three key characteristics of credibility, often referred to as the “three Cs,” are competence, character, and charisma. Competence is the first characteristic, which signifies the speaker’s expertise and intelligence on the subject matter. A competent speaker demonstrates a deep understanding and mastery of the topic, thus enhancing their credibility. The second characteristic is character, which reflects the speaker’s honesty, trustworthiness, and goodwill. A speaker with solid character traits is perceived as reliable and ethical, earning the audience’s respect and confidence. The third characteristic is charisma. Charismatic speakers exude assertiveness, confidence, and enthusiasm, which helps capture the audience’s attention and engagement.

A speaker’s credibility is directly linked to their effectiveness in communication. When an audience perceives a speaker as credible, they are more likely to believe and be persuaded by the message. A credible speaker can influence the audience’s thinking, engagement, and willingness to learn. In contrast, if the audience doubts the speaker’s credibility, skepticism, disbelief, or disengagement may arise.

The Impact of Credibility on Audience Perception

The significance of credibility extends beyond the mere presentation of information. A speaker’s credibility can determine how the audience learns and believes. When a speaker is highly credible, the audience is more inclined to trust and accept the presented information. Credibility also increases a speaker’s persuasive power and the likelihood that listeners will retain and apply the knowledge conveyed. Moreover, credibility influences how listeners feel about the speaker, leading to positive perceptions such as respect, admiration, and trust. This positive perception fosters a favorable attitude toward both the speaker and the message.

Establishing credibility involves several strategies. First, presenting error-free written materials, which include using correct language and verifying the accuracy of information, enhances credibility and professionalism. Second, selecting common ground with the audience is vital. By connecting through shared experiences or concerns, the speaker builds rapport and credibility. Personal anecdotes or stories further add authenticity and relatability. Lastly, delivering the speech with confidence and showcasing expertise helps solidify credibility. A confident delivery reflects the speaker’s self-assurance, while citing personal knowledge or expert sources further supports the claims and arguments, positioning the speaker as a knowledgeable authority.

Part 2: Reflection on Group Project

Our group project encountered some challenges in the initial stages, primarily due to conflicting schedules among team members. However, we eventually managed to overcome these obstacles through effective communication and determination. Finding a suitable time for all team members to meet was a significant hurdle, but through persistence, we successfully coordinated our schedules.

COMM 277 Week 4 Assignment 1 Template – Team Outline Exercise

Once the group convened, four of the five members actively participated in the discussion, offering valuable insights and ideas. The level of engagement and enthusiasm from these members was crucial in driving the project forward. Effective communication and collaboration were the keys to our success. By leveraging each member’s strengths and working together as a cohesive unit, we achieved our shared goal. Despite the initial setbacks, our teamwork, perseverance, and dedication led to a successful outcome.

COMM 277 Week 3 Part 3 – Enacting Communication Change

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Part 1: Beginning of the Week

This week, I have chosen to apply my plan for saying no to my Supervisor. Since I interact with my Supervisor daily at work, I will have ample opportunities to put my plan into action. I have been mentally preparing for the moments when I need to assertively tell my bosses that I cannot stay late. My approach will involve assessing the situation: if I feel that I am being asked to stay late simply because I usually say yes, I will respectfully decline and suggest that they ask other coworkers first. This strategy allows me to maintain a positive and respectful tone while firmly standing my ground.

Part 2: Middle of the Week

The conversation will take place at my workplace, which is an Ob-Gyn office. It may be with my Supervisor or my Manager, depending on who makes the request for me to stay late. Regardless of who it is, I will clearly communicate that I cannot stay. I will use a calm and respectful tone to ensure I do not appear unprofessional or disrespectful. It’s essential for me to be firm in my refusal, so they understand that I am serious and not open to persuasion.

Part 3: End of the Week

3A. Topic Selection Reflection

I utilized assessment techniques during my conversation with my Supervisor when she asked me to stay late. I learned that the tone and word choice I use when saying no significantly impact the effectiveness of the conversation.

3B. Implementation Analysis: Satisfaction

As McLean (2018) notes, “Sometimes we want our meaning to be crystal clear, and at other times, less so.” I applied this principle to my discussions with my boss, aiming to be clear in my refusal to stay late. It was crucial for my Supervisor to understand that my answer was definitive, ensuring they do not feel they can persuade me otherwise. Successfully asserting myself and respectfully saying no has been a positive change for me this week. Prior to this experience, I often felt nervous at the thought of denying my boss.

3C. Implementation Analysis: Dissatisfaction

While I am generally satisfied with my implementation, I recognize that failing to apply my new skills consistently could lead me back to my old habits, which would be disappointing.

3D. Implementation Analysis: Additional Changes

I need to continue reminding myself to say no and resist reverting to my previous behaviors. It’s essential to assess the context of the conversation and remember that tone and phrasing are vital. McLean (2018) states, “It isn’t what you say that counts, but the way you say it,” which resonates with me in everyday interactions. I aim to communicate respectfully and positively when telling my boss no. Therefore, I will keep practicing and mentally preparing for any requests to stay late that I cannot accommodate.

References

McLean, S. (2018). Exploring Interpersonal Communication, Version 2.0.
Thompson, S. (2021). “Tone of Voice” in Manager-to-Employee Communications. Retrieved from https://work.chron.com/tone-voice-managertoemployee-communications28743.html

COMM 277 Week 3 Part 3 – Enacting Communication Change

COMM 277 Week 2 Part 2 – Describing Communication Patterns

Name

Chamberlain University

COMM-277 Interpersonal Communication

Prof. Name

Date

Week 2 CCC Template: Part 2 – Describing Communication Patterns

Part 1: Identifying Patterns

Strategic Steps

Strategic Step 1: Understanding Communication as a Process

My first strategic step involves recognizing that communication is a process. I need to convey to my brother that I cannot babysit without him taking it personally. This perception stems from his usual availability, and it requires adjustment on both our parts. It’s crucial to change this perception while I learn to say no, explaining that I have work, school, or other commitments. As McLean (2018) states, “Communication is a dynamic process, where people come together, mingle, and then part.” I aim to transform the outcome of our conversations, ensuring that both of us leave without hurt feelings.

Strategic Step 2: Observing Reactions

My second strategic step is to observe my brother’s reactions during our conversations. By paying attention to his responses when I say no or provide detailed reasons, I can learn to communicate effectively without implying that I am avoiding time with my niece. Understanding his communication style will help me feel more confident in saying no without worrying about hurting his feelings.

Strategic Step 3: Remembering Communication is Irreversible

The third strategic step involves acknowledging that communication is irreversible. Negative emotions can arise during disagreements, leading to lasting impacts on our conversations. I must remain calm when telling my brother no, recognizing that once words are spoken, they cannot be taken back. This understanding will help me navigate emotional responses and maintain a constructive conversation.

Declarations

Declaration 1

To achieve my goal of understanding communication as a process, I will take my time in each conversation where I need to decline babysitting. Preparing my words and approach will allow for a more positive interaction, minimizing the influence of emotions on the conversation.

Declaration 2

In order to watch my brother’s reactions, I will be attentive not only to my words but also to my body language. Ensuring my gestures convey empathy and understanding will foster a connection that aligns with his communication style. If I misinterpret his reactions, it could negatively impact our relationship.

Declaration 3

To remember that communication is irreversible, I will work on my communication strategy to ensure my words are thoughtful and constructive. This awareness will help me remain calm, even if my brother perceives my refusal as a lack of desire to spend time with his daughter.

Part 2: Plan and Practice

2A. Surroundings

The ideal setting for my conversation with my brother will be my kitchen. While it may seem unconventional to some, I enjoy cooking and hosting family gatherings there. The kitchen is a familiar space where positive interactions have occurred over the years, making it conducive to a constructive discussion.

2B. People

The conversation will ideally involve just my brother and me. While our spouses could be present, I prefer it to be a private discussion. This setup minimizes misunderstandings and ensures we focus on our communication, helping him understand my commitments and reassurances regarding my love for my niece.

2C. Reflection

My rehearsals have helped me formulate a plan aimed at achieving a positive outcome for both parties. They emphasized the importance of recognizing that communication is a process and that it may not be resolved in one conversation. Remaining calm and expressing emotions maturely will foster open communication regarding my ability to babysit.

COMM 277 Week 2 Part 2 – Describing Communication Patterns

References

McLean, S. (2018). Exploring Interpersonal Communication (2.0 ed.). Boston Academic Publishing.