Symbolic Interactionism A Move Toward the Social Broad Assumptions ? Assumption 1: People act toward things on the basis of the meanings those things have for them. Development of Self ? Self Schemata ? Influences of Self Schemata ? Broad Assumptions ? Assumption 1: People act toward things on the basis of the meanings those things have for them. ? Assumption 2: The meaning of things arises from social interaction. Identity Images and Looking Glass Self ? Parental Communication ? Broad Assumptions ? Assumption 3: Communication is the negotiation of social meaning. ? Altercasting ? Self Presentation Broad Assumptions ? ? ? Assumption 1: People act toward things on the basis of the meanings those things have for them. Assumption 2: The meaning of things arises from social interaction. Assumption 3: Communication is the negotiation of social meaning. Goffman’s Dramaturgical Approach ? Impressions are co-constructed ? Communication is analogous to play Actors ? Performance ? Self Presentations ? Nature of Self Presentations ? Omnipresent ? Functions Self Presentations Serve ? Hoosiers ? Expressions Given and Given Off Goffman–Regions ? Definition of Region ? Front Region ? Front Setting ? Personal Front ? Regions (continued) ? Front Region Front ? Setting ? Personal Front ? Standards Embodied in Performance ? Standards of Politeness ? Standards of Decorum ? Moral Requirements of Decorum ? Instrumental Requirements of Decorum ? Regions ? Front Region ? Back Region Communication Out of Character ? Types of Communication Out of Character Treatment of the Absent ? Staging Talk ? Team Collusion ? Realigning Actions ? Impression Management ? Threats to an Impression ? Inopportune Intrusions ? Faux Pas Impression Management ? ? Threats Defensive Practices Dramaturgical Loyalty ? Dramaturgical Discipline ? Dramaturgical Circumspection ? Impression Management ? ? ? Threats Defensive Practices Protective Practices Avoid Back Regions ? Discretion ? Stigmatized Identity ? Passing ? Covering ? Harms of Conformity to Individual ? Harms of Conformity to Society Systems Theory Coordinated Management of Meaning Focus of CMM ? ? People need to manage their interactions in ways that seem reasonable and logical to all those involved. Conversational rules Rules ? Constitutive Rules ? Regulative Rules Constitutive Rules ? Rules of meaning ? Such rules define the event ? If constitutive rule is not met, people may not be said to be participating in said event. Regulative Rules ? ? Rules of action Govern the conditions under which actions/behavior may occur Contexts ? Rules of meaning and action always operate within a context that facilitates interpretation and action. Types of Contexts ? Relationship context Expectations people have of the definitions and boundaries of a relationship Types of Contexts ? Relationship context ? Episode context -The nature of the event, itself -Is this playful banter or an argument Types of Contexts ? Relationship context Episode context ? Self concept context ? -One’s perception of their personal defition Types of Contexts ? Relationship context Episode context Self concept context ? Archetype ? ? -Image of general truth Principles in the Operation of Contexts ? Multiple contexts ? Individual action is the text ? Text and context form a loop (see next slide) Types of Loops ? Charmed Loop ? Paradox or Strange Loop The Force of Rules ? Pre-figurative force ? Practical force ? Contextual force ? Implicative force Systems Theory The Relational Approach Basic Assumptions ? People are purposeful systems ? Communication defines relationship ? Can not NOT Communicate Dimensions of Relationships ? Control ? The right to define and direct the interpersonal system Dimensions of Relationships ? ? Control Trust ? ? ? Reward Dependability Vulnerability Pattern Confidence Pattern Dimensions of Relationships ? ? ? Control Trust Intimacy ? Constrains behavior Coding Relational Messages ? Focus of relational coding scheme ? Nature of messages ? Digits Coding Relational Messages ? ? ? ? Focus Nature Digits Types of messages Patterns of Relational Control ? ? Complementarity Symmetry ? ? Competitive Symmetry Submissive Symmetry Politeness Theory A Study of Face-Threatening Acts Politeness Theory ? Politeness ? Face is a cultural universal Defined Characteristics of Face ? Face is social and public ? Face is situated ? Face is claimed ? We are emotionally invested in face ? Cooperative motivation to honor face Different Aspects of Face ? Own and Other’s Face ? Positive Face ? Negative Face Face Threatening Acts: FTAs ? Focus is on how we respond to threats to another’s face. ? Requests are inherently face-threatening because they ask people to do things they would not normally do. Strategies for Making FTAs ? Commit the FTA directly and bluntly. ? Commit the FTA on record with positive face redress. ? Commit the FTA on record with negative face redress (minimize disrespect or intrusion). ? Commit FTA off record. ? Simply not do the FTA. Positive Face ? 1. Speaker threatens positive face by criticizing or condemning the other person. Statements at this level would include criticisms, reprimands, accusation, contempt, ridicule and disapproval. Level 1 Example ? “Who do you think you are? You party and drink too much and when you drink you have the mouth of a Chinese clock and the brain of a retarded chicken.’ ? “I don’t care what your excuses are. You’re always late. Get here on time or your out.” Positive Face ? 1. Speaker threatens positive face by criticizing . . . ? 2. Strategies that acknowledge positive features of persuadee’s positive face but balance both threatening and supportive statements. Positive Face 2 Examples ? “You’re a good friend but this being late all the time is threatening to mess up our friendship and our jobs.’ ? “Look four or five times is no big deal, but every other day is upsetting the other employees and is making me look bad.” Positive Face ? 3. Strategies that directly approve of the of persuadee’s positive face by providing approval, praise, liking, etc. Positive Face 3 Examples ? “You’ve been doing a heck of a job and your pulling more than your fair share of the load. I know that’s why you’ve been coming in later. But . . .’ ? “Mary you’re a wonderful roommate and a good friend. I can talk to you when I can’t talk to anyone else.” Autonomy Granting/Negative Face ? 1. Deny autonomy of persuadee through overt use of power inherent in the speaker’s role. Negative Face 1 Example ? “Be here on time or I’ll report you to the boss and you’ll be fired.’ ? “You’re not going to party in the room so much. That’s all there is to it.” Negative Face ? 2. Strategies that implicitly acknowledge the ability of peruadee to reason through the situation and grant him/her freedom to act. Negative Face 2 Example ? “If you keep this partying up it will hurt your grades.’ ? “If everyone was late nothing would get done.” Negative Face ? 3. Strategies that explicitly acknowledge the autonomy of persuadee by encouraging him or her to come to their own conclusion about the actions needed given the constraints of the situation. Included at this level are statements indicating a desire not to coerce. Negative Face 3 Example ? “I know I’m not your mother and I can’t make you do anything but think about the kind of relationship you want us to keep here.” Situational Features Relevant to FTAs ? Power (P) ? Distance ? Rank ® (D)

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.