To receive full credit for this activity, please post THREE TIMES (3x) – once as an original post, once as a metaphor post relying to a classmate, and once as a discussion post. Please label the metaphor and discussion posts. Each post should be relatively brief; I’m hoping for a conversation and your classmates are more likely to read and therefore respond to short yet meaningful posts.
Original Post: You will be required to submit an original post before replying to your classmates. Fill in the blank for any ONE of the following questions. Do not answer more than one question. There are no right or wrong answers – this is based entirely on your personal perspective.
Fighting with a coworker is like …
Fighting with my significant other is like …
Fighting with my parent(s) is like …
Fighting with my sibling is like …
Fighting with my boss is like …
Fighting with [choose a relationship of your own] is like …
Metaphor Post: Respond to a classmate’s posts by (1) identifying the central metaphor they used to describe what conflict is like (see pp. 51-59). Do your best to use an existing metaphor – either as defined in the textbook or as defined in the How We Perceive Conflict lecture. Next, based on this metaphor, (2) identify what you believe this person’s background system is. Explain how you came to your conclusion in two sentences or less (short and sweet).
Do your best to respond to a post that does not already have a reply. If you do reply to a post that already has a reply, be sure you are not just reiterating what has already been said. Do not add a third reply to a single original post.
Discussion Post: Let’s talk about it! Respond to a classmate’s example by doing one of the following things:
Relate to them by expressing a similar viewpoint.
React with surprise, sadness, positivity, or whatever you may feel, and explain why.
Ask questions about their experience to understand their perspective better, especially if your viewpoint is very different.
Answer classmates’ questions when you know the answer or can provide insight.
The purpose of the discussion post is to have class discussion. This should look like a written version of what a classroom conversation would be like. This means you should follow usual classroom etiquette:
Treat each other with respect. Do not put your fellow classmates down.
Ask for clarification when you don’t understand. Be conscious of your tone.
Come to the discussion prepared. You will not be able to participate effectively if you have not completed the readings.
Make sure your comments are relevant to the discussion and that you are using appropriate vocabulary/jargon.
Be prepared to explain your position when you are challenged, but try not to react defensively; we’re all here to learn from each other.
Be a good “listener”. Read your classmates’ post and in their entirety.
Come with an open mind. This will help you learn from others’ perspectives even if you disagree.
For full credit make sure you:
Post three times (original, metaphor, discussion)
Label your metaphor and discussion posts
Answer BOTH questions in the metaphor post.
Keep your posts brief (to encourage more dialogue, less monologue)
