1 Elements of Communication: Movie Analysis (Pretty Woman) Student’s Name Institutional Affiliation Date 2 Introduction Human beings are naturally social creatures, and as such, will endeavor to connect and interact with each other. Communication is one of the mechanisms people use to attain these outcomes. The terminology communication can be traced back to a Latin term meaning ‘to share’ (Burgoon et al., 2021). It is generally defined as the purposeful and active exchange of information amongst two or more persons who pass on or receive the intended message via a standard system of symbols and signs. Communication can take various forms, and as such, learning how to interpret the different verbal and non-verbal messages can help people understand them and avoid ambiguity or miscommunication. In line with this, the paper will provide an in-depth analysis of the movie ‘Pretty Woman,’ seeking to identify the various communication elements within the movie. Analysis of the Communication Elements Within the Movie ‘Pretty Woman’ Non-Verbal Messages The movie has various scenes where characters use non-verbal messages when speaking to each other. Most people assume that communication only takes place verbally. This assumption is flawed considering, various studies have intimated that the majority of the communication occurs non-verbally. When people talk about communication, they often refer to the words they are using or those they can hear (Burgoon et al., 2021). Even though this might be true, communication goes beyond the mere use of words and the meaning people derive from hearing these words. More often than not, when a person is talking, they will inadvertently end up relaying implicit messages, irrespective of whether they are doing this intentionally or not. These implicit messages are mainly expressed via non-verbal cues (Burgoon et al., 2021). When speaking, the common non-verbal messages people relay include their facial expressions, tone 3 and pitch of voice, body language, and the physical distance between the parties (Burgoon et al., 2021). Learning how to identify and interpret these non-verbal cues correctly is vital. This is because doing so gives a person the chance to gather supplementary information and meaning, which is often hidden behind the words a communicator might be using. One of the scenes within Pretty Woman where this communication element manifests itself is during the first interaction between Edward and Vivian. After noticing Edward’s Ferrari, Vivian approaches it and leans in to strike a conversation with him. Vivian asks him whether he is looking for a date, and Edward responds by stating, “what’s that?” After Vivian clarifies what she said before, Edward asks her for directions to get to Beverly Hills. Shocked by the response, Vivian responds by stating, “What?” and then drops the come-on comment as she enquires whether Edward is really lost. When dropping the come-on tag, Vivian contorts her lips and pulls her head slightly back. This interaction has two major non-verbal messages. The first one manifests itself when Vivian approaches Edward’s car. She leans into the car to reduce the physical distance between them. This is a non-verbal message to Edward that she is willing to engage in a conversation with him. The other non-verbal cue manifests itself when Vivian drops the ‘come on’ tag after Edward asks for her help getting to Beverly Hills. Edward is able to correctly identify this non-verbal cue and interpret it, considering he informs Vivian that indeed he is lost. In this case, Vivian’s words and her facial expression were in tandem since they allowed Edward to perceive the shock Vivian was trying to express. Conflict in Communication Conflict is another communication element I was able to identify within the movie. Conflict denotes an expressed struggle involving inter-dependent parties who are dealing with incompatible goals, interference, and limited resources (Vasilopoulos et al., 2018). For a conflict 4 to exist, an expressed struggle, which goes beyond a mere disagreement’s confines, must be present. On some occasions, a conflict can manifest itself verbally during a conversation, especially when a party uses certain words that indicate its existence (Vasilopoulos et al., 2018). Conflict within a conversation can also be expressed non-verbally. For instance, when a party shoots a mean look at the other party or when they use a harsh tone when speaking to the other party. A key point to note is that a conflict will more often than not take place between parties who are interdependent in one way or another (Vasilopoulos et al., 2018). What this means is that the actions or conduct of one individual should impact the well-being of the other individual. On their way to Beverly Hills, Vivian and Edward are engaged in a conversation about how dangerous Vivian’s job is. Vivian informs him that not only is she better at sex but also practices safe sex. Edward then states, “Very good. You ought to have that printed up on your business card. In response, Vivian states, “If you’re making fun of me, I don’t like it.” Finally, Edward states, “Sorry. If I did, I didn’t mean to.’ From this interaction, one can deduce that a conflict between the two has emerged since Vivian is angry that Edward is making fun of her. However, Edward uses compromise as a conflict management style by apologizing and indicating that he meant no offense with the comment. By doing this, Edward is able to prevent the conflict from escalating. Active Listening Active listening is very important during a conversation. This is because it allows a person to send a message to the person speaking that they are following and understanding what the individual is saying (Spataro & Bloch, 2018). It also helps build trust by making the individual speaking feel as if their words matter to the listener. Active listening generally denotes paying full attention to a speaker. Therefore, an active listener focuses on their communication 5 partner and expresses interest and engages meaningfully during the conversation. Nodding, smiling, or even providing non-judgmental feedback are some of the ways a person can show a speaker that they are actively listening to what is being said (Spataro & Bloch, 2018). From the various scenes in the movie involving Edward and Vivian, one can deduce that he is an active listener. For instance, when they are at his penthouse, Vivian guesses that Edward is a lawyer. He responds by stating, “And why do you say that?’ From this, one can see that Edward not only listened to Vivian but also heard what she said. He was able to do this by paying keen attention to what Vivian was saying, an aspect that allowed Edward to provide her with appropriate feedback. Due to this, the conversation between the parties was able to continue. Self-Esteem Self-esteem denotes the value people attach to themselves, and whether they disapprove or approve of the characteristics a person believes they possess (Lee, 2019). An individual’s selfesteem is a vital element of their inner being, and as such, it has an impact on how they communicate with the people around them and how a person responds to the feedback they receive (Lee, 2019). When people approve of themselves and the attributes they possess, they will inadvertently have high self-esteem, and this will manifest itself when they are speaking. Edward has high self-esteem. This comes to the fore during a conversation with Mr. Kross when he tells Edward, “So young man, I understand you are trying to take over my company.” In response, Edward states, “Please don’t patronize me, Mr. Kross. Our ages mean nothing here.” This comment surprises-both David and Mr. Kross, who end up staring at each other in shock. From these comments, one can deduce that Edward has high self-esteem, considering he believes that he is competent enough to negotiate a deal with Mr. Kross despite being significantly younger than him. 6 Conclusion The four communication elements highlighted within the paper are not the only ones within the movie “Pretty Woman.” The analysis of the scenes and the subsequent discussion of the identified communication elements point out the importance of these elements during a conversation. For instance, active listening can allow a person to not only understand what the speaker is saying but also connect and form a relationship with them. Conflicts are, at times, unavoidable, especially during a conversation. However, using the right conflict management style, just as Edward did, can help a person to deal with the conflict before it gets worse. 7 References Burgoon, J. K., Manusov, V., & Guerrero, L. K. (2021). Nonverbal communication. Routledge. Lee, I. S. (2019). Study on Self-esteem, Communication Skills, and Empathy in Junior College Students. Journal of the Korea Academia-Industrial cooperation Society, 20(10), 358365. Spataro, S. E., & Bloch, J. (2018). ‘Can you repeat that?’ Teaching active listening in management education. Journal of Management Education, 42(2), 168-198. Vasilopoulos, T., Giordano, C. R., Hagan, J. D., & Fahy, B. G. (2018). Understanding conflict management styles in anesthesiology residents. Anesthesia & Analgesia, 127(4), 10281034. 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.