# data[].attributes.body
After introducing the branch of computer-mediated communications, we will now look at a few issues that arises due to the widespread use of online technology for communications.

# data[].attributes.body
Communications and New Media is a broad discipline that covers a range of topics and sub-fields. Here are some additional topics you can read up on.

# data[].attributes.body
Lastly, we will explore the realm of popular culture and how communication and new media contributes to the rise of this new field.

# data[].attributes.body
In this section you will learn about Communications & New Media as a social science discipline and its relevance in today's world.

# data[].attributes.body
Is communication common sense? Contrary to popular belief, there are actually many technicalities and underlying concepts in the field of Communication & New Media studies.

In this video, Alexander Lyon describes communication studies and provides a brief overview of what communication entails.

# data[].attributes.body
With the advent of the Internet and more advanced forms of technology today, traditional communication platforms and mass media are increasingly losing their relevance.

This short video introduces some of the new media types we see today.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
New Media - R093: Creative iMedia in the Media Industry

# data[].attributes.headline
1.3 Why Do We Study Communications & New Media?

# data[].attributes.subject
1.3 Why Do We Study Communications & New Media?

# data[].attributes.body
Why is communications important? This video summarises the relevance of communications to our world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Why Study Mass Communication? | College Majors | College Degrees | Study Hall

# data[].attributes.body
In this section, you will find 9 sections with curated resources on Communications & New Media:

1. Introduction to Communications & New Media

2. Communication & New Media Concepts

3. Communications & New Media Research

4. Computer-Mediated Communication

5. Media Effects

6. Environmental Communication

7. Health Communication

8. Popular Culture

9. Other Topics

# data[].attributes.body
After an introduction to the discipline, we will now dive into some key concepts and theories in Communications & New Media.

# data[].attributes.body
Models of communication are simplified representations of the complex communication process. This video introduces the 3 main models of communication.

# data[].attributes.body
Perception is how we make sense of things and interpret the world. In this video, Emily McWorthy explains the 3 main stages of perception: Selection, Organisation and Interpretation.

# data[].attributes.body
In this section, you will learn how to conduct communications & new media research and write a communications & new media paper.

# data[].attributes.headline
3.1 The Process of Writing a Communications & New Media Paper 

# data[].attributes.subject
3.1 The Process of Writing a Communications & New Media Paper 

# data[].attributes.body
What is a communications research paper? This short guide describes the key characteristics of communication studies writing, such as:

1) Selection of research problem/topic

2) Review of relevant literature

3) Statement of research question/hypothesis

4) Determine appropriate method and design

5) Data collection

6) Analysis and interpretation

7) Presentation

# data[].attributes.body
The field of Communications & New Media comprises many topics and sub-fields. This rough guide provides some tips on how to choose a research topic.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
LibGuides: Communication Studies: Tips for Choosing a Research Topic

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
LibGuides: Communication Studies: Tips for Choosing a Research Topic

# data[].attributes.body
This short video explains how you can write a strong thesis statement for your paper.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Write a STRONG Thesis Statement | Scribbr 🎓

# data[].attributes.body
A literature review is an essential component of any research paper to demonstrate your understanding of your topic, identify knowledge gaps and inspire research. This guide explains how you can write your literature review.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Literature Reviews – The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This handout will explain what literature reviews are and offer insights into the form and construction literature reviews.

# data[].attributes.headline
3.5 How to Find Academic Materials For Your Research Paper?

# data[].attributes.subject
3.5 How to Find Academic Materials For Your Research Paper?

# data[].attributes.body
The Singapore National Library Board (NLB) gives you access to various academic and newspaper databases. Watch this video to learn how you can access these databases and find academic materials for your research paper.

# data[].attributes.headline
3.6 Types of Research in Communications & New Media

# data[].attributes.subject
3.6 Types of Research in Communications & New Media

# data[].attributes.body
This article explains the 3 main types of communication research: Quantitative, qualitative and rhetorical.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Students interested in earning a graduate degree in communication should have at least some interest in understanding communication theories and/or conducting communication research. As students advance from undergraduate to graduate programs, an interesting change takes place - the student is no longer just a repository for knowledge. Rather, the student is expected to learn while also creating knowledge. This new knowledge is largely generated through the development and completion of research in communication studies. Before exploring the different methodologies used to conduct communication research, it is important to have a foundational understanding of the field of communication.

Overview of Communication

Defining communication is much harder than it sounds. Indeed, scholars have argued about the topic for years, typically differing on the following topics:

Breadth: How many behaviors and actions should or should not be considered communication.

Intentionality: Whether the definition includes an intention to communicate.

Success: Whether someone was able to effectively communicate a message, or merely attempted to without it being received or understood.

However, most definitions discuss five main components, which include: sender, receiver, context/environment, medium, and message. Broadly speaking, communication research examines these components, asking questions about each of them and seeking to answer those questions.

As students seek to answer their own questions, they follow an approach similar to most other researchers. This approach proceeds in five steps: conceptualize, plan and design, implement a methodology, analyze and interpret, reconceptualize.

1. Conceptualize: In the conceptualization process, students develop their area of interest and determine if their specific questions and hypotheses are worth investigating. If the research has already been completed, or there is no practical reason to research the topic, students may need to find a different research topic.

2. Plan and Design: During planning and design students will select their methods of evaluation and decide how they plan to define their variables in a measurable way.

3. Implement a Methodology: When implementing a methodology, students collect the data and information they require. They may, for example, have decided to conduct a survey study. This is the step when they would use their survey to collect data. If students chose to conduct a rhetorical criticism, this is when they would analyze their text.

4. Analyze and Interpret: As students analyze and interpret their data or evidence, they transform the raw findings into meaningful insights. If they chose to conduct interviews, this would be the point in the process where they would evaluate the results of the interviews to find meaning as it relates to the communication phenomena of interest.

5. Reconceptualize: During reconceptualization, students ask how their findings speak to a larger body of research - studies related to theirs that have already been completed and research they should execute in the future to continue answering new questions.

This final step is crucial, and speaks to an important tenet of communication research: All research contributes to a better overall understanding of communication and moves the field forward by enabling the development of new theories.

Communication Research Methods

In the field of communication, there are three main research methodologies: quantitative, qualitative, and rhetorical. As communication students progress in their careers, they will likely find themselves using one of these far more often than the others.

Quantitative Research

Quantitative research seeks to establish knowledge through the use of numbers and measurement. Within the overarching area of quantitative research, there are a variety of different methodologies. The most commonly used methodologies are experiments, surveys, content analysis, and meta-analysis. To better understand these research methods, you can explore the following examples:

Experiments: Experiments are an empirical form of research that enable the researcher to study communication in a controlled environment. For example, a researcher might know that there are typical responses people use when they are interrupted during a conversation. However, it might be unknown as to how frequency of interruption provokes those different responses (e.g., do communicators use different responses when interrupted once every 10 minutes versus once per minute?). An experiment would allow a researcher to create these two environments to test a hypothesis or answer a specific research question. As you can imagine, it would be very time consuming - and probably impossible - to view this and measure it in the real world. For that reason, an experiment would be perfect for this research inquiry.

Surveys: Surveys are often used to collect information from large groups of people using scales that have been tested for validity and reliability. A researcher might be curious about how a supervisor sharing personal information with his or her subordinate affects way the subordinate perceives his or her supervisor. The researcher could create a survey where respondents answer questions about a) the information their supervisors self-disclose and b) their perceptions of their supervisors. The data collected about these two variables could offer interesting insights about this communication. As you would guess, an experiment would not work in this case because the researcher needs to assess a real relationship and they need insight into the mind of the respondent.

Content Analysis: Content analysis is used to count the number of occurrences of a phenomenon within a source of media (e.g., books, magazines, commercials, movies, etc.). For example, a researcher might be interested in finding out if people of certain races are underrepresented on television. They might explore this area of research by counting the number of times people of different races appear in prime time television and comparing that to the actual proportions in society.

Meta-Analysis: In this technique, a researcher takes a collection of quantitative studies and analyzes the data as a whole to get a better understanding of a communication phenomenon. For example, a researcher might be curious about how video games affect aggression. This researcher might find that many studies have been done on the topic, sometimes with conflicting results. In their meta-analysis, they could analyze the existing statistics as a whole to get a better understanding of the relationship between the two variables.

Qualitative Research

Qualitative research is interested in exploring subjects' perceptions and understandings as they relate to communication. Imagine two researchers who want to understand student perceptions of the basic communication course at a university. The first researcher, a quantitative researcher, might measure absences to understand student perception. The second researcher, a qualitative researcher, might interview students to find out what they like and dislike about a course. The former is based on hard numbers, while the latter is based on human experience and perception.

Qualitative researchers employ a variety of different methodologies. Some of the most popular are interviews, focus groups, and participant observation. To better understand these research methods, you can explore the following examples:

Interviews: This typically consists of a researcher having a discussion with a participant based on questions developed by the researcher. For example, a researcher might be interested in how parents exert power over the lives of their children while the children are away at college. The researcher could spend time having conversations with college students about this topic, transcribe the conversations and then seek to find themes across the different discussions.

Focus Groups: A researcher using this method gathers a group of people with intimate knowledge of a communication phenomenon. For example, if a researcher wanted to understand the experience of couples who are childless by choice, he or she might choose to run a series of focus groups. This format is helpful because it allows participants to build on one another's experiences, remembering information they may otherwise have forgotten. Focus groups also tend to produce useful information at a higher rate than interviews. That said, some issues are too sensitive for focus groups and lend themselves better to interviews.

Participant Observation: As the name indicates, this method involves the researcher watching participants in their natural environment. In some cases, the participants may not know they are being studied, as the researcher fully immerses his or herself as a member of the environment. To illustrate participant observation, imagine a researcher curious about how humor is used in healthcare. This researcher might immerse his or herself in a long-term care facility to observe how humor is used by healthcare workers interacting with patients.

Rhetorical Research

Rhetorical research (or rhetorical criticism) is a form of textual analysis wherein the researcher systematically analyzes, interprets, and critiques the persuasive power of messages within a text. This takes on many forms, but all of them involve similar steps: selecting a text, choosing a rhetorical method, analyzing the text, and writing the criticism.

To illustrate, a researcher could be interested in how mass media portrays "good degrees" to prospective college students. To understand this communication, a rhetorical researcher could take 30 articles on the topic from the last year and write a rhetorical essay about the criteria used and the core message argued by the media.

Likewise, a researcher could be interested in how women in management roles are portrayed in television. They could select a group of popular shows and analyze that as the text. This might result in a rhetorical essay about the behaviors displayed by these women and what the text says about women in management roles.

As a final example, one might be interested in how persuasion is used by the president during the White House Correspondent's Dinner. A researcher could select several recent presidents and write a rhetorical essay about their speeches and how they employed persuasion during their delivery.

Mixed Methodology

Taking a mixed methods approach results in a research study that uses two or more techniques discussed above. Often, researchers will pair two methods together in the same study examining the same phenomenon. Other times, researchers will use qualitative methods to develop quantitative research, such as a researcher who uses a focus group to discuss the validity of a survey before it is finalized.

The benefit of mixed methods is that it offers a richer picture of a communication phenomenon by gathering data and information in multiple ways. If we explore some of the earlier examples, we can see how mixed methods might result in a better understanding of the communication being studied.

Example 1: In surveys, we discussed a researcher interested in understanding how a supervisor sharing personal information with his or her subordinate affects the way the subordinate perceives his or her supervisor. While a survey could give us some insight into this communication, we could also add interviews with subordinates. Exploring their experiences intimately could give us a better understanding of how they navigate self-disclosure in a relationship based on power differences.

Example 2: In content analysis, we discussed measuring representation of different races during prime time television. While we can count the appearances of members of different races and compare that to the composition of the general population, that doesn't tell us anything about their portrayal. Adding rhetorical criticism, we could talk about how underrepresented groups are portrayed in either a positive or negative light, supporting or defying commonly held stereotypes.

Example 3: In interviews, we saw a researcher who explored how power could be exerted by parents over their college-age children who are away at school. After determining the tactics used by parents, this interview study could have a phase two. In this phase, the researcher could develop scales to measure each tactic and then use those scales to understand how the tactics affect other communication constructs. One could argue, for example, that student anxiety would increase as a parent exerts greater power over that student. A researcher could conduct a hierarchical regression to see how each power tactic effects the levels of stress experienced by a student.

As you can see, each methodology has its own merits, and they often work well together. As students advance in their study of communication, it is worthwhile to learn various research methods. This allows them to study their interests in greater depth and breadth. Ultimately, they will be able to assemble stronger research studies and answer their questions about communication more effectively.

Note: For more information about research in the field of communication, check out our Guide to Communication Research and Scholarship.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Guide to Communication Research Methodologies: Quantitative vs Qualitative Research

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Students interested in earning a graduate degree in communication should have at least some interest in understanding communication theories and/or conducting communication research. As students advance from undergraduate to graduate programs, an interesting change takes place - the student is no longer just a repository for knowledge.

# data[].attributes.body
We will now learn how to analyse quantitative data, which primarily deals with statistics and numbers. This video summarises the main concepts and methods used in analysing quantitative data.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Quantitative Data Analysis 101 Tutorial: Descriptive vs Inferential Statistics (With Examples)

# data[].attributes.body
Another form of data analysis is the interpretation of qualitative data, which is non-statistical and typically more descriptive. This video highlights the key concepts and methods in qualitative data analysis.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Qualitative Data Analysis 101 Tutorial: 6 Analysis Methods + Examples

# data[].attributes.body
Here are some more useful tips on writing a communications & new media research paper.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Writing Center * University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What this handout is about

This handout describes some steps for planning and writing papers in communication studies courses.

Courses in communication studies combine material from the humanities, fine arts, and social sciences in order to explain how and why people interact in the ways that they do. Within communication studies, there are four different approaches to understanding these interactions. Your course probably falls into one of these four areas of emphasis:

Interpersonal and organizational communication: Interpersonal communication concerns one-on-one conversations as well as small group behaviors. Organizational communication focuses on large group dynamics.

Rhetoric: Rhetoric examines persuasion and argumentation in political settings and within social movements.

Performance studies: Performance studies analyze the relationships among literature, theater, and everyday life.

Media/film studies: Media and film studies explore the cultural influences and practical techniques of television and film, as well as new technologies.

Understanding your assignment

The content and purpose of your assignments will vary according to what kind of course you are in, so pay close attention to the course description, syllabus, and assignment sheet when you begin to write. If you'd like to learn more about deciphering writing assignments or developing your academic writing, see our Writing Center handouts on these topics. For now, let's see how a general topic, same-sex friendships, might be treated in each of the different areas. These illustrations are only examples, but you can use them as springboards to help you identify how your course might approach discussing a broad topic.

Interpersonal communication

An interpersonal communication perspective could focus on the verbal and nonverbal differences and similarities between how women communicate with other women and how men communicate with other men. This topic would allow you to explore the ways in which gender affects our behaviors in close relationships.

Organizational communication

Organizational communication would take a less personal approach, perhaps by addressing same-sex friendships in the form of workplace mentoring programs that pair employees of the same sex. This would require you to discuss and analyze group dynamics and effectiveness in the work environment.

Rhetoric

A rhetorical analysis could involve comparing and contrasting references to friendship in the speeches of two well-known figures. For instance, you could compare Aristotle's comments about Plato to Plato's comments about Aristotle in order to discover more about the relationship between these two men and how each defined their friendship and/or same-sex friendship in general.

Performance studies

A performance approach might involve describing how a literary work uses dramatic conventions to portray same-sex friendships, as well as critiquing how believable those portrayals are. An analysis of the play Waiting for Godot could unpack the lifelong friendship between the two main characters by identifying what binds the men together, how these ties are effectively or ineffectively conveyed to the audience, and what the play teaches us about same-sex friendships in our own lives.

Media and film studies

Finally, a media and film studies analysis might explain the evolution of a same-sex friendship by examining a cinematic text. For example, you could trace the development of the main friendship in the movie Thelma and Louise to discover how certain events or gender stereotypes affect the relationship between the two female characters.

General writing tips

Writing papers in communication studies often requires you to do three tasks common to academic writing: analyze material, read and critique others' analyses of material, and develop your own argument around that material. You will need to build an original argument (sometimes called a "theory" or "plausible explanation") about how a communication phenomenon can be better understood. The word phenomenon can refer to a particular communication event, text, act, or conversation. To develop an argument for this kind of paper, you need to follow several steps and include several kinds of information in your paper. (For more information about developing an argument, see our handout on arguments). First, you must demonstrate your knowledge of the phenomenon and what others have said about it. This usually involves synthesizing previous research or ideas. Second, you must develop your own original perspective, reading, or "take" on the phenomenon and give evidence to support your way of thinking about it. Your "take" on the topic will constitute your "argument," "theory," or "explanation." You will need to write a thesis statement that encapsulates your argument and guides you and the reader to the main point of your paper. Third, you should critically analyze the arguments of others in order to show how your argument contributes to our general understanding of the phenomenon. In other words, you should identify the shortcomings of previous research or ideas and explain how your paper corrects some or all of those deficits. Assume that your audience for your paper includes your classmates as well as your instructor, unless otherwise indicated in the assignment.

Choosing a topic to write about

Your topic might be as specific as the effects of a single word in conversation (such as how the use of the word "well" creates tentativeness in dialogue) or as broad as how the notion of individuality affects our relationships in public and private spheres of human activity. In deciding the scope of your topic, look again at the purpose of the course and the aim of the assignment. Check with your instructor to gauge the appropriateness of your topic before you go too far in the writing process.

Try to choose a topic in which you have some interest or investment. Your writing for communications will not only be about the topic, but also about yourself-why you care about the topic, how it affects you, etc. It is common in the field of communication studies not only to consider why the topic intrigues you, but also to write about the experiences and/or cognitive processes you went through before choosing your topic. Including this kind of introspection helps readers understand your position and how that position affects both your selection of the topic and your analysis within the paper. You can make your argument more persuasive by knowing what is at stake, including both objective research and personal knowledge in what you write.

Using evidence to support your ideas

Your argument should be supported with evidence, which may include, but is not limited to, related studies or articles, films or television programs, interview materials, statistics, and critical analysis of your own making. Relevant studies or articles can be found in such journals as Journal of Communication, Quarterly Journal of Speech, Communication Education, and Communication Monographs. Databases, such as Infotrac and ERIC, may also be helpful for finding articles and books on your topic (connecting to these databases via NC Live requires a UNC IP address or UNC PID). As always, be careful when using Internet materials-check your sources to make sure they are reputable.

Refrain from using evidence, especially quotations, without explicitly and concretely explaining what the evidence shows in your own words. Jumping from quote to quote does not demonstrate your knowledge of the material or help the reader recognize the development of your thesis statement. A good paper will link the evidence to the overall argument by explaining how the two correspond to one another and how that relationship extends our understanding of the communication phenomenon. In other words, each example and quote should be explained, and each paragraph should relate to the topic.

As mentioned above, your evidence and analysis should not only support the thesis statement but should also develop it in ways that complement your paper's argument. Do not just repeat the thesis statement after each section of your paper; instead, try to tell what that section adds to the argument and what is special about that section when the thesis statement is taken into consideration. You may also include a discussion of the paper's limitations. Describing what cannot be known or discussed at this time-perhaps because of the limited scope of your project, lack of new research, etc.-keeps you honest and realistic about what you have accomplished and shows your awareness of the topic's complexity.

Communication studies idiosyncrasies

Using the first person (I/me) is welcomed in nearly all areas of communication studies. It is probably best to ask your professor to be sure, but do not be surprised if you are required to talk about yourself within the paper as a researcher, writer, and/or subject. Some assignments may require you to write from a personal perspective and expect you to use "I" to express your ideas.

Always include a Works Cited (MLA) or References list (APA) unless you are told not to. Not giving appropriate credit to those whom you quote or whose ideas inform your argument is plagiarism. More and more communication studies courses are requiring bibliographies and in-text citations with each writing assignment. Ask your professor which citation format (MLA/APA) to use and see the corresponding handbook for citation rules.

This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Make a Gift

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Communication Studies - The Writing Center * University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What this handout is about This handout describes some steps for planning and writing papers in communication studies courses. Courses in communication studies combine material from the humanities, fine arts, and social sciences in order to explain how and why ... Read more

# data[].attributes.body
After learning about communication & new media concepts and research, we will now dive into a sub-field of communication: Computer-Mediated Communication

# data[].attributes.headline
4.1 What is Computer-Mediated Communication?

# data[].attributes.subject
4.1 What is Computer-Mediated Communication?

# data[].attributes.body
Computer-mediated communication is a sub-field of communication & new media that encompasses various forms of human communication through networked computers. This video introduces the branch of computer-mediated communication (10:13 onwards) and briefly explains key concepts and models in communications.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mediated Communication #1: Introduction to Mediated Communication

# data[].attributes.body
Unlike traditional forms of communication, Computer-mediated communication has the added advantage of utilising computers and technology as a medium for communication. This short article summarises the key features of computer-mediated communications.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A working definition of computer-mediated communication is "communication between different parties separated in space and/or time, mediated by interconnected computers." The computer network acts as a communication medium just as if it were a printed book containing text and graphics or a video broadcasting system. However, the computer brings certain characteristics to the communication process that the majority of previously available communication media did not offer.

14.2.1 Highly Interactive Communication

The first of these characteristics is the capability of supporting complex processes of interaction between the participants. The computer combines the permanent nature of written communication with the speed and to some extent the dynamicism of spoken telephone communication. Unlike the limited interactivity available in other forms of computer-based leaming such as CAI, the possibilities for interaction and feedback are almost limitless, being a function of the creativity and personal involvement of the participants in the on-line discussion.

The feedback messages do not have to be preprepared and stored, as is the case with CAI. Also, the participants are able to some extent to express within their messages not only the bare content but also their personal viewpoints and, to a limited extent, the emotional overtones that may be present. Thus, the potential for interaction in a CMC system is both more flexible and potentially richer than in other forms of computer-based education.

14.2.2 Multi-Way Communication

Another aspect of the communication process is that it is essentially multiway communication. At the very least, the communication is two-way, as in the case of two people exchanging messages in an electronic-mail environment. More often, however, the communication is multiway, between all the participants of a group who may receive and respond to messages from all the other participants.

One point that should be considered is whether unlimited multyway communication is in fact always desirable within an educational situation. Many participants in computer conferencing have expressed frustration and disappointment With the difficulty they have had in sorting out relevant from irrelevant information, because there are so many participants contributing messages on a variety of different topics. One approach to creating some order in this chaos is through the development of special-purpose educational CMC software environments that may break down a complex conference into subthemes and issues held in separate "areas"," as if in separate rooms in a convention center (for example, CoSy, PARTIcipate). Another approach is through the use of hypertext environments (see Chapter 22) that automatically link the incoming messages so that the users of the CMC system can get a clear idea of the structure of previous discussion. Such hypertext environments have also been applied to breaking down a large group of participants into small groups for intensive discussion, replicating in the on-line environment the classroom-based techniques of seminars or case study (Romiszowski & Chang, 1992; Chang, 1994). The latest windows-based conferencing systems allow participants to view a list of messages in a conference and then to point and click on those they wish to read. This facilitates greater selectivity for users than the old command line systems.

14.2.3 Synchronous or Asynchronous Communication

Finally, the communication process may have both synchronous and asynchronous characteristics. By synchronous communication, we understand communication between two or more people in real time, such as classroom-based, face-to-face discussion, or a telephone conversation. In asynchronous communication, the participants are not on-line at one and the same time, as in the case of correspondence by letter or fax. The interesting aspect of using the computer as a communication medium is that it is possible to use it at will both as a synchronous communication medium like a telephone or an asynchronous communication medium like a letter-writing or fax system, depending on what is ideally required by the particular situation (Rawson, 1990; Sheffield & McQueen, 1990). We will later explore these characteristics of synchronous and asynchronous communication in a computer-mediated environment, identifying potential benefits in different situations for each one of these modalities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A working definition of computer-mediated communication is "communication between different parties separated in space and/or time, mediated by interconnected computers." The computer network acts as a communication medium just as if it were a printed book containing text and graphics or a video broadcasting system.

# data[].attributes.body
Misinformation, often known as fake news, is the spread of false or incorrect information. In this video, Blake Simpson explains the effect of misinformation on our society and how it is becoming a growing trend.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Misinformation, the media, and the role you're playing in both | Blake Simpson | TEDxNashville

# data[].attributes.body
Unlike misinformation, disinformation is the deliberate action of spreading false information, in an attempt to mislead or influence people. This video explains the concept of disinformation and how it can potentially divide a society.

# data[].attributes.body
Apart from misinformation and disinformation, online harms are also negative media effects from the use of online communication, which can include online harassment, hate speech, cyberbullying and doxxing. This report summarises the key types of online threats experienced in the digital space.

# data[].attributes.body
Does the media control what we think? In this video, we learn about the Cultivation Theory, with a primary focus on television as an early form of media.

# data[].attributes.body
This video introduces the Spiral of Silence Theory, which states that an individual's perception of the distribution of public opinion influences that individual's willingness to express their own opinions. This stems from the fear of isolation and incongruity from the majority opinion.

# data[].attributes.body
This video introduces the field of public relations and explores the different types and functions of public relations.

# data[].attributes.body
How do you convince an audience? This video explains the 4 main rhetorical appeals used in persuasion: Ethos, Pathos, Logos and Kairos

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
An Introduction to Kairos: Persuasion beyond ethos, logos and pathos

# data[].attributes.body
Interpersonal communication is an area in communication studies that focuses the exchange of information between 2 or more people, with the intention to accomplish relational and personal goals through the use of verbal and non-verbal cues.

# data[].attributes.body
In computer-mediated communications, we are often exposed to the different technological advancement that influences the way we communicate. This video explains the diffusion of innovation theory and how technological innovations are adopted in computer-mediated communications.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Diffusion of Innovation Theory: The Adoption Curve

# data[].attributes.body
This video introduces the Uses and Gratifications Theory, which explains why a person uses a particular media form.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Why do we watch TV? | Uses and Gratification theory explained

# data[].attributes.body
While misinformation and fake news are increasingly becoming pervasive, they can still be identified. In this video, we will learn some tips on how to overcome fake news.

Here are some more resources on identifying misinformation:

How to Spot Fake News

How to Spot Misinformation Online

# data[].attributes.body
Apart from personal measures to detect misinformation and disinformation, many countries around the world are also enacting policies and campaigns to stop the spread of falsehood. This article summarises some of the key policies and measures by some countries around the world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A guide to anti-misinformation actions around the world - Poynter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A global leader in journalism. Strengthening democracy.

# data[].attributes.body
After learning about the harmful media effects of computer-mediated communication, we will now take a look at another branch of communications: Environmental Communication.

# data[].attributes.headline
6.1 What is Environmental Communication?

# data[].attributes.subject
6.1 What is Environmental Communication?

# data[].attributes.body
Environmental communication is the dissemination of information and the implementation of communication practices that are related to the environment. This short video introduces the branch of environmental communication and how it is significant to our world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Life Cycle Thinking & Environmental Management

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What is environmental communication - part 1

# data[].attributes.headline
6.2 Importance of Environmental Communication 

# data[].attributes.subject
6.2 Importance of Environmental Communication 

# data[].attributes.body
In this TED Talk, Jeannine Bartz shares the importance of communication in affecting environmental impact. While it is vital to communicate the negative consequences of inaction, it is more effective to discuss about the positive effects of environmentalism and sustainability.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Power of Communication in Affecting Environmental Impact | Jeannine Bartz | TEDxKerrisdaleLive

# data[].attributes.body
Another important aspect of environmental communications is the use of digital media to communicate ideas and address environmental issues. This short video introduces the concept of digital media.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Digital Media: Introduction to Digital Media (07:01)

# data[].attributes.body
When we talk about environmental communication, it is inevitable that we will discuss about the ongoing environmental issues today. In this video, we will learn about some of the most pressing environmental issues affecting the world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Top 10 Major Global Environmental Issues In The World - List Of Global Environmental Problems [2021]

# data[].attributes.body
Moving on, we will explore another branch of communications: Health Communications

# data[].attributes.body
In this video, Dr. Bruce Lambert succinctly summarises the field of health communication and it's importance to our society.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Center for Communication and Health at Northwestern

# data[].attributes.body
In this video, we learn about the theory of planned behaviour, which is a theory that links beliefs to behaviour. The theory maintains that three core components, namely, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control, together shape an individual's behavioural intentions.

# data[].attributes.body
An area of study under health communication is the effectiveness of graphic and health warning labels to tackle health issues such as smoking or obesity. In this news interview, healthcare experts discuss the effectiveness of these labels.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Should Junk Food Have Graphic Health Warning Labels to Help Tackle Obesity? | Good Morning Britain

# data[].attributes.body
Popular culture is the set of practices, beliefs, and objects that embody the most broadly shared meanings of a social system. It includes media objects, entertainment and leisure, fashion and trends, and linguistic conventions, among other things.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Why Pop Culture?: Alexandre O. Philippe at TEDxMileHigh

# data[].attributes.body
In this video, Dr. Matthew Hale introduces a few key concepts in the study of popular culture. From videos and gaming culture to memes and films, these foundational concepts are essential for understanding popular culture.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What is Popular Culture and What is Pop Culture Studies

# data[].attributes.body
In this video, we learn about one of the main theories that underpin the rise of popular culture, which is the communication accommodation theory. This theory explains how we adapt our communication when we interact with others.

# data[].attributes.body
When we talk about popular culture, it is also important to understand why popular culture became popular in the first place. In this video, we explore the concept of semiotics, which is one of the most fundamental topics that contributes to the appeal and salience of popular culture.

# data[].attributes.body
Another aspect of semiotics is the concept of the signifier and the signified. In this video, we learn the differences between these 2 concepts and how they combine to form a sign.

# data[].attributes.body
This short article summarises some of the most fundamental principles and theories of intrapersonal communication. Unlike interpersonal communication, intrapersonal communication is done with oneself and occurs within the individual.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Intrapersonal Communication Theories offer invaluable insights into the complex process of communicating with oneself. These theories explore the dynamics of self-talk, self-awareness, and internal reasoning, playing a crucial role in personal growth and decision-making. Understanding these theories is key to mastering the art of intrapersonal communication, facilitating a deeper connection with oneself, improved mental well-being, and more effective interactions in daily life.

List of Intrapersonal Communication Theories

Intrapersonal Communication Theories provide a deep understanding of the internal processes influencing how we think, feel, and communicate with ourselves. These theories range from psychological frameworks to models explaining self-perception and internal dialogue. They are essential in exploring self-awareness, decision-making, and personal growth, offering insights into how we process and respond to information internally.

Johari Window Model:

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:

Self-Discrepancy Theory:

Cognitive Dissonance Theory:

Social Penetration Theory:

Describes the development of deeper self-understanding. Social Penetration TheoryDeveloped by Altman and Taylor, this theory describes how interpersonal relationships develop through gradual layers of self-disclosure and vulnerability.
Example: "Delving into my deeper thoughts and feelings helps me understand myself better."

Transactional Analysis:

Looking Glass Self:

Suggests that self-perception is influenced by how others perceive us. Looking Glass Self TheoryCooley's theory suggests that a person's self-concept is shaped largely by how they believe others perceive them.
Example: "I sometimes see myself through others' eyes, which affects my self-esteem."

Schutz's Interpersonal Needs Theory:

Uses and Gratification Theory:

Narrative Theory:

Symbolic Interactionism:

Spiral of Silence Theory:

Expectancy Violations Theory:

Uncertainty Reduction Theory:

Elaboration Likelihood Model:

Self-Perception Theory:

Mindfulness Theory:

Self-Efficacy Theory:

Self-Determination Theory:

Impression Management Theory:

Involves how people attempt to influence the perceptions of others and themselves. Impression Management Theory Describes how individuals attempt to control the impressions others form of them in social interactions.
Example: "I'm aware of how I try to influence how others, and sometimes I, perceive myself."

Each theory provides a unique lens through which Intrapersonal Communication can be understood, offering valuable insights into self-awareness, personal growth, and internal processing.

Intrapersonal Communication Theories offer invaluable insights into the complexities of internal dialogue and self-awareness. This guide has highlighted a variety of theories, each shedding light on different aspects of personal communication and thought processes. Understanding these theories is crucial for enhancing self-awareness, improving decision-making, and fostering personal growth, making them indispensable tools for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their interactions with the world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
🤝 Enhance your understanding of self with Intrapersonal Communication Theories. Essential tips for introspection and self-discovery. #IntrapersonalInsights 💬