Communication Audit Project -HRMN 302 CONNECTIONS Core competencies: Analytic Inquiry Use of Information Resources This assignment allows you to demonstrate mastery of the course outcomes : Apply communication theories to organizational communication challenges Analyze and assess the communication dynamics of an organization through the completion of a communication audit SHRM Competency: Consultation – The ability to provide guidance to organizational stakeholders. PROBLEM What are the communication challenges organizations face today? Once they are identified, how does an organization overcome these challenges and improve their communication flow? In this three-part assignment, you will first conduct a communication audit to assess organizational communication within an organization of your choice. A communication audit is a method of research that reveals how your stakeholders view your organization’s communication methods and effectiveness. We will provide you with a survey (below) that you will use to measure this perception, and you will administer it in your organization. You will then analyze and synthesize the results of the data obtained from your audit efforts and select one critical communication challenge in your organization, conduct research and develop suggestions for addressing that specific communication challenge. Last, you will present the result of your audit, your research, and suggestions for improvement in a presentation. Your goals: ‘Administer the communication audit in your organization. This should be an organization you work for or have access to such as a school or church organization. ‘Analyze and synthesize the results of the data from the communication audit. ‘Based on the communication audit identify one critical communication challenge that needs to be addressed within your organization. ‘Create and deliver a presentation that provides the results of your audit with suggestions for improvement based on the data obtained from the audit and the literature on organizational communication. Directions: Assume you are the Director of Human Resources at your chosen organization. You are tasked with conducting a communication audit and presenting the results to leadership. Your goal in conducting the communication audit is to identify one main communication challenge within an organization that needs to be addressed. You will complete the following tasks: 1. Conduct a communication audit survey. In order to obtain valid results, you want to survey between 8 to 10 people. You may print out the survey and distribute it in person for completion, or you may administer it online, for example, using Survey Monkey or Google Forms. The survey includes questions that tap into five different areas of organizational communication: (1) Receiving information from others, (2) Sending information to others, (3) Sources of information, (4) Timeliness of information, and (5) Channels of communication. Within these five areas of organizational communication, identify one major area of concern to address based on the responses from the survey. 2. You will then analyze and synthesize the results of the data obtained from your audit effort and create your Audit Report using the format below. 3. Based on the communication audit identify one critical communication challenge that needs to be addressed within your organization. Research the scholarly literature for recommendations about how the organization can address this issue. 4. Create and deliver a presentation that provides the results of your audit with suggestions for improvement based on the data obtained from the audit and the literature on organizational communication. FORMAT Audit Report: Communicate the results of the Communication Audit by developing an audit report, using APA format. Include a title slide with your project title (e.g., “Communication Audit”), the organization’s name, your name, class, instructor, and date. Present an introduction that describes your research methodology and provides details of the survey administration, response rate, and characteristics of the survey population. Develop a professionally-written narrative in which you show the data using appropriate tables, charts, and graphs. Include a detailed analysis followed by a summary of your findings, using the example in the “Collecting and Analyzing Data” file in the content area. Identify the top communication challenge from your survey, and present your recommendations to strengthen this communication challenge, based on the scholarly literature. In the appendix, present the survey questions and the number of responses for each question. Your report should be professional and creative. You must have a minimum of 3 reliable sources in your citations. Use APA format for the in-text citations you use to support your arguments. Don’t forget to check your spelling! As a friendly reminder, all words must be yours and your own typing. You may not copy text directly from a source. Presentation: Communicate the results of the Communication Audit by developing a presentation, using APA format. Include a title slide with your project title (e.g., “Communication Audit”), the organization’s name, your name, class, instructor, and date. Present an introduction that describes your research methodology, providing details of the survey administration, response rate, and characteristics of the survey population. Clearly present a narrative to describe the data using appropriate tables, charts, and graphs. Include a detailed analysis followed by your findings. Identify the top communication challenge from your survey, and present your recommendations to strengthen this communication challenge, based on the scholarly literature. In the appendix, present the survey questions and the number of responses for each question. Your presentation should be professional and creative. Adding audio and/or visual elements on the slides is highly recommended. Text should be the proper size for viewing during a presentation. Your presentation will need title and citation slides. You must have a minimum of 3 reliable sources in your citations. Use APA format for your citations. Don’t forget to check your spelling! As a friendly reminder, all words must be yours and your own typing. You may not copy text directly from a source. You may use presentation software of your choice. Examples include (but are not limited to): ‘o Powerpoint o Powerpoint with audio recording o Animot0 o Google Docs- presentation o GoAnimate o Prezi PLEASE NOTE: Your presentation software should not incur any costs. You are responsible for understanding how to use the software. You will need to submit your work in a format that can be easily opened by your colleagues and the instructor. You need to include the results of your survey. ** Be sure to review the rubric for grading criteria before you begin working on and submitting this assignment** Due Date Nov 30, 2021 11:59 PM Collecting and Analyzing the Data from Your survey In this handout you will see an example of a chart with the responses from 8 participants. Note that I have color coded the questions to make it easier for you to identify which area of communication these questions address (there are 5 areas that the survey addresses): 1-7 Receiving Information from Others 8-14 Sending Information to Others 15-23 Sources of Information 24-29 Timeliness 30-37 Channels of Information If you look at the average score for each item, you will be able to tell where the organization scored low. For example, note that in the second section (Sending Information to Others) several items were scored very low, including # 9, # 11 and # 13. Thus, I can say that this organization seems to have some gaps in the first area -Sending Information to Others . My second step would be to go to the literature and see what can we do about this? What are some suggestions to specifically improve these areas? I would give recommendations USING SCHOLARLY SOURCES. What are two other areas that scored low? Remember that for this assignment you need to identify ONE area of concern, as shown by the data, and then give recommendations. Remember to add your table similar to this one in the appendix so that the reader can see the scores and confirm that you have really identified the areas that scored low. Person Person Person Person Person Person Person Person Questions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Average 1 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 2.875 2 4 3 4 3 4 3 4 4 3.625 3 2 2 3 3 3 2 3 3 2.625 4 4 4 5 4 4 5 4 4 4.25 5 1 2 2 4 3 2 2 2 2.25 6 5 4 4 4 5 3 4 4 4.125 7 3 2 3 2 1 2 3 3 2.375 8 5 5 5 4 3 3 4 5 4.25 9 1 1 1 3 2 2 2 1 1.625 10 5 5 4 4 5 4 4 5 4.5 11 3 1 2 1 3 1 1 3 1.875 12 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 5 4.875 13 1 1 1 2 1 3 3 1 1.625 14 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5 4.75 15 1 3 1 1 1 1 2 1 1.375 16 5 5 5 5 5 5 3 5 4.75 17 2 1 1 1 3 1 2 2 1.625 18 5 5 4 5 3 5 2 5 4.25 19 1 1 3 1 3 2 2 1 1.75 20 5 5 5 5 2 5 4 5 4.5 21 1 2 3 1 3 1 1 1 1.625 22 5 5 5 2 3 5 5 5 4.375 23 1 1 1 5 3 1 3 5 2.5 24 5 5 5 5 2 5 3 2 4 25 1 1 1 3 1 5 4 5 2.625 26 2 5 5 3 3 2 2 1 2.875 27 5 5 2 5 1 5 4 5 4 28 5 2 5 4 5 1 2 1 3.125 29 3 5 1 2 1 5 2 5 3 30 3 1 5 1 5 1 2 1 2.375 31 5 5 1 1 1 5 2 5 3.125 32 5 1 5 4 4 1 4 1 3.125 33 2 5 5 5 4 5 4 2 4 34 4 1 2 3 2 1 2 5 2.5 35 2 5 5 2 3 2 3 5 3.375 36 4 1 1 4 3 5 3 3 3 37 1 2 5 3 1 5 1 3 2.625 COMMUNICATION AUDIT SURVEY Based on the Questionnaire Survey by the International Communication Association Instructions Please circle your responses on the survey form. Please answer all questions since each is important for possibly improving the operation of your organization. If there are any questions which do not apply to you, leave them blank. If there are questions which you do not understand, please ask us about them. We appreciate your patience for this important survey. There is a total of 37 questions divided into 5 sections: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Receiving information from others Sending information to others Sources of information Timeliness of information Channels of communication PLEASE MARK ONLY ONE RESPONSE TO EACH QUESTION 3 Communication Audit Survey Receiving Information from Others Instructions for Questions 1 through 7 1 = Very Little 2 = Little 3 = Some 4 = Great 5 = Very Great This is the amount of information I receive now 1. How well I am doing in my job 1 2 3 4 5 2. My job duties. 1 2 3 4 5 3. Organizational policies 1 2 3 4 5 4. Pay and benefits. 1 2 3 4 5 5. How technological changes affect my job 1 2 3 4 5 6. Mistakes and failures of my organization 1 2 3 4 5 7. How I am being judged 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 4 Communication Audit Survey Sending Information to Others Instructions for Questions 8 through 14 1 = Very Little 2 = Little 3 = Some 4 = Great 5 = Very Great This is the amount of information I receive now 8. Reporting what I am doing in my job 1 2 3 4 5 9. Reporting what I think my job requires me to do 1 2 3 4 5 10. Reporting job-related problems 1 2 3 4 5 11. Complaining about my job and/or working 1 2 3 4 5 12. Requesting information necessary to do my job 1 2 3 4 5 13. Evaluating the performance of my immediate supervisor 1 2 3 4 5 14. Asking for clearer work instructions 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 5 Communication Audit Survey Sources of Information You not only receive various kinds of information, but can receive such information from various sources within the organization. Instructions for Questions 15 through 23 1 = Very Little 2 = Little 3 = Some 4 = Great 5 = Very Great This is the amount of information I receive now 15. Subordinates (if applicable) 1 2 3 4 5 16. Co-workers in my own unit or department 1 2 3 4 5 17. Individuals in other units or departments in my organization 1 2 3 4 5 18. Immediate supervisor 1 2 3 4 5 19. Department meetings 1 2 3 4 5 20. Middle Management 1 2 3 4 5 21. Formal management presentations 1 2 3 4 5 22. Top management 1 2 3 4 5 23. The “grapevine” 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 6 Communication Audit Survey Timeliness of Information Indicate the extent to which information from the following sources is usually timely (you get information when you need it — not too early, not too late). Instructions for Questions 24 through 29 1 = Very Little 2 = Little 3 = Some 4 = Great 5 = Very Great This is the amount of information I receive now 24. Subordinates (if applicable) 1 2 3 4 5 25. Co-workers 1 2 3 4 5 26. Immediate supervisor 1 2 3 4 5 27. Middle management 1 2 3 4 5 28. Top management 1 2 3 4 5 29. The “grapevine” 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | 7 Communication Audit Survey Channels of Communication The following questions list a variety of channels through which information is transmitted to employees. Please circle the response which best indicates: (1) the amount of information you are receiving through that channel Instructions for Questions 30 through 37 1 = Very Little 2 = Little 3 = Some 4 = Great 5 = Very Great This is the amount of information I receive now Topic Area 30. Face-to-face contact between two people 1 2 3 4 5 31. Face-to-face contact among more than two people 1 2 3 4 5 32. Telephone 1 2 3 4 5 33. Written (memos, letters) 1 2 3 4 5 34. Bulletin Boards 1 2 3 4 5 35. Internal Publications 1 2 3 4 5 36. Internal Audio-Visual Media (Videotape, Films, Slides) 1 2 3 4 5 37. External Media (TV, Radio, Newspapers) 1 2 3 4 5 | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Purchase answer to see full attachment

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.