Let’s talk about the SEVEN traditions of communication theory during week SEVEN of my Queens University COM 601 course. Coincidence? I think not. I’m sure this is some sign that the odds are ever in our (my classmates and I) favor for final grades.
In the beginning of this communication course, just a few weeks ago, we were introduced to the seven traditions of communication theory:
Semiotic, Phenomenological, Cybernetic, Sociopsychological, Sociocultural, Critical, Rhetorical
A few of the discussion post assignments required us to apply the tradition of our choice to theories, personal experiences, and even movies. The traditions I leaned towards most were phenomenological (people understand and perceive situations based on experiences they have lived through) and sociocultural (people define who they are based on their relationships and interactions with others). These made the most sense to me because I truly believe that people are influenced by their previous life events, and who they are surrounded by. These factors can affect the way someone comprehends, relays, and responds to messages.
The communication accommodation theory is a theory that stuck out to me the most. It reminded me of times when I was still living with my parents and my dad would talk on the phone. My mom and I would always play the game, “Who’s he talking to?” We could make guesses based on his tone of voice and phrases he chose to use. Even though we all have separate unique identities, it is interesting to see how we show variations of our identity when communicating with certain people.
Tierra Thomas 