Introduction to Communication Theory

Question 1

Focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts.

Answer 1

Communication

Question 2

According to ________, the term theory refers to the body of theories that constitute our understanding of the communication process.

Answer 2

Littlejohn, 1983

Question 3

Theories are ______ for understanding the world around us. It is possible to use multiple theories to examine our communication.

Answer 3

Lenses

Question 4

What are the 6 characteristics of Theory

Answer 4

SCOPE
PARSIMONY
HEURISTIC VALUE
OPENNESS
APPROPRIATENESS
VALIDITY

Question 5

Refers to the BREADTH of the theory.

Answer 5

SCOPE

Question 6

To its level of SIMPLICITY (brief explanation)

Answer 6

PARSIMONY

Question 7

Is the theory’s ability to GENERATE OTHER theories.

Answer 7

HEURISTIC VALUE

Question 8

When the theory is open this means that it RECOGNIZES other PERSPECTIVES and OPTIONS.

Answer 8

OPENNESS

Question 9

Refers to the fit between the RESEARCH QUESTIONS and theory used to ANSWER it.

Answer 9

APPROPRIATENESS

Question 10

Is the OVERALL WORTH and practicality of a theory which includes value, fit, and generalizability.

Answer 10

VALIDITY