Abstract This paper takes a look at how, within a culture, the symbolic system is able to bring together and give meaning to the personal and social relationships that make up a society
From the Paper "One such form of nonverbal communication is symbolism which is only second to body language in terms of its primacy, ancient beginnings, and lasting endurance. Anthropologist Edward Sapir provided one of the earliest general formulations of a behavioral approach to symbolic communication, writing that "every cultural pattern and every single act of social behavior involves (symbolic) communication in either an explicit or an implicit sense,, (1931, p. 78). He also maintained that because communication is fundamentally symbolic in nature, it is dependent on the nature of the relationships and understandings that exist between individuals. This belief of Sapir implies that the cultural context in which symbols are created plays a fundamental role in, not only, the meaning attributed to a symbol, but also the physical and psychological shape a symbol will take. "
Abstract This paper provides a detailed analysis of the dynamics underlying consumer behavior. The author provides an in depth explanation about what consumer psychology involves, emphasizing perspectives on how advertising works , consumer-based response measures and present state of knowledge about measures of advertising effectiveness.
From the Paper "Consumer psychology is the study of the dynamics underlying consumer behavior specifically concentrating on the use of psychological concepts and methods to explain, predict and influence behavior (Assael, 1992). Consumer psychology perspectives on how advertising works therefore puts much weight on the psychological dimensions of individuals as consumers and how advertising effects them. In other words, consumer psychology attacks the subject of advertising from a psychological point of view. The behavior outcome of advertising (the consumption of produce or a service) is therefore a complex interplay of many aspects. This is because humans are complex individuals and the process involves many levels of psychological functioning on behalf of the individual."
Abstract This paper provides details on implementing and managing successful Internet Based Distance Education (DE) Programs. Distance Education is one of the fastest growing areas in higher education institutions today and like the technology that drives it, distance education is evolving, as are the skills required. The author looks at the requirements necessary to manage and run the program.
From the Paper "Distance education programs have a propensity to grow exponentially if they are done well. Many institutions begin their distance education programs by offering a limited number of courses and they use the technology they already have in place because they are unsure of how well the courses will work or how many students will enroll. By comparison, institutions that have good distance education programs plan them from the ground up. They implement the information technology infrastructure before they begin building their classes. This helps to solve the problems before they begin. Successful distance education programs also have the necessary support staff in place before beginning course development. By providing faculty with training and technical support the quality of teaching materials is improved."
Abstract This essay describes conflict resolution with specific reference to third party intervention (in the form of mediation and arbitration). In addition, it argues that third party intervention is not a simple, objective technique that can solve any conflict situation, but that in essence, the effect of third party intervention (such as mediation and arbitration) is dependant on many different psychological processes. These psychological processes are examined. Finally, the essay views the effectiveness of third party intervention in the South African context. In doing the above, the essay defines certain processes such as conflict, mediation, arbitration and third party intervention.
From the Paper "According to Erasmus et al, conflict is an extremely complex phenomenon that can be caused by many different sources (such as two parties competing for the same job or two parties having differing value systems or ideologies). In order to effectively manage conflict, it is necessary to identify the actual causes of the conflict (Erasmus et al, 1992). In addition, conflict can arise in virtually any social setting and it can be between or within nations, organizations, groups or individuals (Rubin, 1994).There are four different classifications of organizational conflict given by Erasmus et al. These are intrapersonal conflict, (conflict that occurs within the individual due to tasks, roles and interests which do not match the individual's expertise), interpersonal conflict (conflict between two individuals), intragroup conflict (conflict among the members of the same group), and intergroup conflict (conflict between two groups, such as between a trade union and management) (Erasmus, et al, 1992)."
Tags: african, arbitration, conflict, context, interventions, mediation, party, south, third
Abstract This essay traces the history and development of theories and approaches to group behavior. The author provides a brief definition of what a "group" is, followed by an analysis of some of the major theorist's beliefs about group behavior. The author then examines some of the more recent work done on group behavior. Finally, the author looks at ways in which the theories covered can be used practically in a work situation.
From the Paper "According to Cartwright and Zander, group dynamics is a field dedicated to the understanding of the nature of groups, the laws of their development, and the interrelations "between individuals, other groups and larger institutions" (Cartwright & Zander, 1968). Although evidence of psychological work on groups dates as far back as the 19th century (as will be shown in the essay's look at the work of Tripplet), Cartwrite and Zander claim that the study of group behavior only became an identifiable field towards the end of the 1930?s, but that it is a field that has experienced rapid growth since then (Cartwright & Zander, 1968). In addition, Morland, Hogg and Hains claim that interest in groups declined during the late 1970?s, remained low during the 1980's and then rose again during the 1990's (when most of the research relied heavily on laboratory experiments with a very individualistic emphasis) (Moreland, Hogg & Hains, 1994)."
Abstract A look at the effects of propaganda during war with special reference to the war in Kosovo. The writer argues that opinions do not simply exist; they are always formed. Usually, it is propaganda that produces the most effective results and especially when the question of concern is war. Both NATO and Slobodan Milosevic took advantage of propaganda using the media as a communicator.
From the Paper "Everybody pretends to know the truth about this war. Yet, they all have difficulties defining truth. The reason is that people confuse knowing the truth with having an opinion. And opinions do not simply exist; they are always formed. Usually, it is propaganda that produces the most effective results. This war was not an exception."
Abstract This paper looks into stereotypes, biases, and prejudices on television and in other media sources. The author looks at how television has changed over the past decade, and its impact on society, especially children.
From the Paper "In today's ever diversifying society one detrimental problem that remains is that of stereotypes and biases. Do the people in our country need to see more negative portrayals than they already are" Within certain types of media, minorities and women are often times portrayed negatively. Within this research paper, two television shows will be analyzed in terms of age, race, gender, target audiences, socioeconomic differences, stereotypes and biases, clothing and presentation, and the role of characters. Aside from the characters in the television shows, products being advertised will also be evaluated. Often times an advertising company will choose a target audience and present the goods in a specific style, meaning the company will choose different age brackets, background voices, and special effects. Most importantly, the effect these shows have on children will be discussed. Children look at television characters as role models, and this research paper will test these programs to see if integrity and proper moral standards are displayed.?
Abstract This paper discusses strategy for running a successful election campaign, using Hillary Clinton in 2004 as a model. The author deals with media image, coverage, advertising and issues, as well as the glass ceiling and how the general public chooses a candidate for the presidency.
From the Paper "Conducting a successful bid for the presidency is an arduous task at best, and there are many things to consider when beginning one's election campaign. Media coverage, advertising, image and issues are just a few of the factors that work together to make or break a would-be president. How do you know how and when to focus on what?'
Tags: ceiling, clinton, election, general, glass, image, media, politics, president, public
Abstract This paper briefly explains the challenges of communicating with an instructor and a class in a distance learning situation. It explores the types of distance learning, what the instructor should do, and its pros and cons.
From the Paper "As both a student and a teaching participant in several online classes and exchanges over the past three years, I have often wondered how my experience with distance learning compared to others. I sought articles that studied both large numbers of students and small groups, and looked at the classes through the lenses of both student and teacher. My experience as a student was with two online classes at Ohio University-Zanesville. The first, in 1997, was through a microwave system that allowed us to see, hear and talk to the instructor and the students at two other OU branches; the format was lecture and brief class discussion."
Abstract This paper demonstrates the success of the Nazi's anti-Jewish propaganda in the 1930's.The author examines the effect of the German policies and how these impacted the developments of the Holocaust.
From the Paper " Because the German people accepted the anti-Semitic policies, they could be carried out. The enforcement of these laws eventually led to what is now known as the Holocaust. By killing the German Jews the way he did, Hitler was one step closer to creating the Aryan nation he had envisioned. The National Socialists said that for a government to be successful, it had to promote the well being of its race, including removing any factors that might disrupt this. The Aryan people were the race of Nazi German; the Jews were a threat to them. Hitler removed them from the equation. By 1939, he had been an effective leader in creating a successful National Socialist State."
Tags: hitler, holocaust, ii, nazi, war, world, Jews, policies
Abstract This paper examines the way the media aids in the construction of identities. The author argues that the media controls certain images present on television, newspapers and other forms of communication, which shape stereotypes and identities. The paper focuses on the depiction of the Asian population with a careful analysis of the stereotyping of Asian men.
From the Paper "While watching the news on television, one may notice a skewed proportion of Asian men to Asian women. A close examination will show that Asian women fill the roles of news anchors, while Asian males are situated as field reporters. Asian men and women's education and experience have no function in the determination of these roles. Things are never what they appear to be; the just American society does not practice equality. Although one may imagine that talent and education determine one's compatibility for the spotlight, the fact is image plays the most important role. Yen Le Espiritu's concept of controlling images help to explain how the media portrays Asian men with such a negative identity that it creates what Stuart Hall calls positions of identification, or predetermined roles that they are confined within. The controlling images present in television, newspaper, and other mediums of communication construct negative stereotypes for Asian men, creating for them an identity that is unfavorable for television news. From the images present in the media, Asian men construct for themselves a position of identification: one with no association with television news."
Abstract This paper looks at the role that the media plays in portraying and delivering news with special reference to the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Towers. The author argues that the way the media depicts news creates a situation in which reality becomes indistinguishable from film making. The media's use of techniques such as slow motion, repetition, development of characters and formation of anticipation in the audience in delivering news, is so similar to the way films are made, that to discern between boundaries of the media and real life becomes impossible.
From the Paper "The Spectacle of horror, which took place on September 11th 2001, has left daunting unforgettable memories in the minds of all on lookers. The events of that day influenced so many individuals because of the vast reach of the media in our day-to-day lives. What happened on September 11th 2001 leaves many believing that real life has become indistinguishable from the movies. The increase in media control has taken off with in the cultural industry over the last 30 years. Televisions became mainstreamed into the family home in the 1970's with the invention of colour TV. These days more then 11 million Canadians have cable television. The mega trend of corporate capitalism in the post-industrial world has 7.5 million households online. Hollywood and American cinema account for the 2nd largest product surplus in North America. Ironically before the September 11th 2001 tragedies top grossing industry was the Airline Industry. Both the film and airline industries have seen drastic declines in profits since September 11th 2001."
Tags: cultural, industry, media, role, terrorism, war, cinema, movie
Abstract This paper provides the reader with an understanding of the problems and concerns with communicating with the elderly. The writer interviews four elderly individuals and refers to several journal articles to detail the various communication issues that can arise when it comes to the elderly population. The author argues that advanced communication systems makes it harder to communicate with the elderly.
From the Paper "Communication is the very foundation of our daily lives. We communicate our wants and desires as well as the things that we are doing to handle other people's wants and desires. It is also the way we get things done. If we were to suddenly lose the ability to communicate then we would be at a severe disadvantage in life. This very problem can occur in the elderly population based on the changes that they face when they reach their golden years. There is not only a communication gap because of the differences in lifestyles and eras than when they were young, but there are also health considerations that can affect the ability to effectively communicate. Many senior citizens find themselves becoming increasingly frustrated in their attempts to communicate with the world and as a result of that frustration they withdraw and become reclusive. This can cause them to deteriorate faster because of the lack of human contact, therefore communication in the world of the elderly is an essential skill and one that must be adjusted to adapt to their new place in the time line of life."
Abstract This paper discusses the role of television propaganda during times of war. The paper attempts to discern problems or controversies in specific areas of media communications. It also provides an overview of the September 11 attacks on the USA.
From the Paper "War on television has been the subject of both fictional accounts and extensive, often compelling news coverage. War has been the prime inspiration of a number of television movies and series along with political cartoons and talk shows. This almost always leads to propaganda which can be defined as the systematic propagation or discrediting of a given doctrine or cause by circulating polemical material such as posters of leaflets. The facts in a propaganda campaign are manipulated in such a way so as to bring about a gradual but significant change of public opinion (Glasgow University Media Group, 1985). As a result of such campaigns a large number of people are directed to think in a particular direction. The basic idea behind a propaganda campaign can be a product, an ideology, a position or a point of view even though the general assumption remains that propaganda is directly related to political events. This usually causes propaganda to be associated with negative connotations. Thus simply put propaganda can be described as the dissemination of information through persuasion and is said to be an art that can be carried out through all forms of communication (Young, 1992). However for reasons of space and clarity the following essay will focus on the effect of television propaganda during times of war."
Tags: September, 11, media, communication, government, talk, shows, telecast, society
Abstract This paper takes a look at the new phenomenon of text messages on cellular phones especially as they relate to teenage culture.
From the Paper "The negative effects of the mobile phone are also becoming evident with regard to teenagers, the champion texters. There is some concern within the teaching profession that literacy skills are being lost, as vowels and grammar are ignored. While parents share these fears, they are encouraged by suggestions that text messaging may be safer than voice calls, as the mobile is not held close to the head when writing, sending or receiving SMS."
