Integration, Critique, & Practical Application (ICP) – Foundational Communication Theories (EVT, URT, or CAT) (500 words)
Step 1: Choose ONE foundational theory we discussed/learned about this week (EVT, URT, or CAT) to critique using the evaluation standards from WT Ch. 2, & 3 (integration & critique). You will also discuss the worth of this theory academically and practically while further examining the value of this theory in practical terms.
Step 2: Define and describe the theory in your own words
Step 3: Write a one paragraph describing the integration concepts – tradition, context, and approach to knowing. You should not simply list the integration concepts or repeat what is in the text but describe why or how it fits here given what you know about traditions, contexts, approaches to knowing, and theory.
Step 4: 1-2 paragraphs critiquing the theory using the evaluation criteria (scope, logical consistency, parsimony, utility, testability, heurism, test of time). You DO NOT need to discuss all of these. Instead, discuss the most relevant for you to demonstrate your understanding of the criteria and theory. Additionally, do not simply repeat what is discussed in the text.
Step 5: 1 paragraph examining the value or worth of the theory both academically and practically (generally or you may also choose to examine it’s worth in a given profession or particular personal endeavor)
Step 6: 1-2 paragraphs applying the theory to a real-life situation or scenario. Describe the situation, discuss how the theory helps you better understand the situation, see it differently, or how it moves you to social change? How does it help you explain, predict, understand human behavior and communication interactions? How might you reframe the situation to better serve you, see it from another perspective or make better sense of it? In other words, end with what you learned about yourself, others, or human behavior in general from viewing the situation through the lens of this theory.
