The first communication concept that I want to discuss on this paper is ‘perceptual schema’. Adler & Towne (1999) describe this as the “framework that allow us to organize the raw data we have selected. Five types of schema help us classify ourselves and others (p.97).” The way we communicate with others is determined largely by the way we perceive others. One of the five constructs that Adler & Towne write about is psychological construct, that is, whether the other person is curious, nervous, shy, or anxious. Another construct in perception schema is classification of a person based upon their role, that is, is that person a doctor, lawyer, police person, salesperson. No doubt we immediately take into account the role a person plays socially and communicate in kind. So, if I were to speak with a lawyer I could use terms like onus or adjudicate. The other three constructs are just as important to determining perception and in turn communication.

In reference to application of this principle I have used it all my life intuitively and now after class I am able to elucidate. I have applied this most recently at work because at work I am able to meet new people

In conclusion, I find that much of the coursework was very appropriate to enabling us to understand and utilize our communication concepts. A suggestion for the course would be to delve into the debate exercises in the class. I feel that if we practice some of the principles used in debate we could transfer them into the business field. Debating sharpens the ability to listen and understand the communicator’s statements. Ultimately, I feel I learned many things in this class that I will continue to use.

On Sundays I must especially take care to avoid another communication error, to insure that my congregates are listening. The error of information overload is common in my craft. In order to relay a message to my hearers I must be wary of using too much information. Not only must I as a preacher be sure that my message is clear, with very few points, I must make sure that I keep them focused on the message at the conclusion. Many times I have had opportunity to ask members of churches if they remember what the speaker spoke of on Sunday, and invariably very few remember all of the points. Many times people are busy doing their own things or pressed with worries about work, health, debt or other things to listen effectively.

The next exercise that I feel improved the communication climate was the charade exercise. During that exercise we had to guess names of books or movies through our classmate’s actions. Non-verbal communication was exercised and studied in this game to bring about a winner. Two teams having played and all the students recording movements and perceptions enabled me to formulate some conclusions.

At the midpoint of the debate exercise we had to listen and listen intently because we knew the next step was to repeat the other person’s stance, the important part of the repetition was that it was to be non-judgmental. At the end of the exercise I felt very satisfied with utilizing the principles of communication. After the exercise I was less stressed and frustrated than other communication encounters where I have had to explain my viewpoint on an issue.

I feel that our relationship deepening not only has an excellent effect on listening but also in our speaking. As we continued on in class and exercises I have seen more compassion on the part of the cohort students to communicate short and sweet messages. In communications with the cohort I have seen messages get shorter and care taken to not confusion the receiver with information overload. I have personally tried to shorten my messages and to listen silently.

Another concept learned in class is, the fallacy of causation. This fallacy basically states that the communicator does not want to be completely truthful for fear of causing adverse emotions in the receiver. Many consequences are the result of a person subscribing to this myth of causation. For example, Adler & Towne (1999) state “A second consequence is that you’re likely to begin resenting the person whose behavior you find bothersome. (pg. 169)” According to this definition I have been guilty in relating to my wife under this myth. In my relating with her I have at time felt that saying something would not be constructive because it would bring about a fight. In retrospect, I see that the fight or discussion would have been more constructive than not relating the inform

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