Assignment: Introduction to Communication
Follow the directions in each section and answer the questions as comprehensively as possible. Make sure to provide correct citations for the terms and definitions used from the textbook. A high level of analysis should guide your answers, which should be typed underneath each question.
I. Compulsory questions: You must answer all the questions in this section:
1. Briefly describe each of the four types of task-oriented groups and offer an example of each. (8 points)
2. Define stereotyping and, using examples, explain the four ways it hinders intercultural communication. (10 points)
3. An organization inevitably develops its own culture. Identify and describe the six interrelated communication-based elements that help build strong organizational cultures. Using real life or fictional examples, explain how each ensures a strong work culture. Then choose the single element that you think benefits the work culture the most and explain why using your specific example. (12 points)
II. Choose and answer one question from the following three in this section:
4. Your group is having a terrible time making progress toward completing its project for an Introduction to Communication class. There are you, the self-appointed leader (although there didn't seem to be any objection), two members who seem to be trying their best, one who seems competent but a bit disinterested, and a final member who is just plain unpleasant. You are only 2 weeks into the assignment and it is. Take 5 of the 12 suggestions for improving group communication that you think would be of most value to you in this situation and explain how you would move your group to successful completion of its goal.(10 points)
5. Max Weber, in his Theory of Bureaucracy, identified three principles of a well-functioning bureaucracy. Sociologist W. Richard Scott added two more. What are these five principles of a well-functioning bureaucracy? Describe how each contributes to the overall success of a large organization.
6. What is intercultural communication competence and its four levels? What type of thinking does intercultural communication require?