Instructions:
- The reflective assignment should be substantive and a minimum of 4- 6 pages (1000-1500 words)
- Ensure you use proper grammar, word choice, syntax, and writing mechanics.
- Properly cite and reference any direct quotes from class or outside material using APA format.
- Please make sure you use short “direct” quotes from the readings to engage the reader a bit and mix up your writing
Assignment prompt: I will include all materials associated with this assignment (please make sure to cite from the course readings/ textbook)
In this Journal Entry written assignment, you will explore concepts and variables related to attitudinal advocacy, investigate alternatives to traditional receiver-centered persuasion, analyze issues pertaining to activism and political communication on social media, and critically evaluate the information deficit model. This multifaceted task will help you understand the complexities of communication strategies, particularly in the context of social and political discourse.
Part 1: Attitudinal Advocacy:
- Identify Concepts and Variables:
- Define attitudinal advocacy and its key components.
- Identify and explain at least two variables that influence the effectiveness of attitudinal advocacy campaigns. Consider factors such as message framing, emotional appeals, audience characteristics, and cultural context.
- Explain Alternatives to Traditional Persuasion:
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- Research and describe two alternative approaches to traditional receiver-centered persuasion.
- Compare these approaches with traditional persuasion techniques, highlighting their advantages and limitations.
- Discuss how these alternatives can be used effectively in attitudinal advocacy campaigns.
Part 2: Activism and Political Communication on Social Media
- Analyze Issues in Activism and Political Communication on Social Media:
- Investigate the role of social media in modern activism and political communication.
- Identify and analyze two significant challenges or issues arising when activism occurs on social media platforms.
- Discuss how these challenges impact the effectiveness and credibility of activist messages.
- Case Study Analysis:
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- Select a recent case of political activism on social media.
- Describe the campaign, its goals, strategies, and overall impact.
- Evaluate how well the campaign navigated the challenges of social media activism and whether it effectively engaged its target audience.
Part 3: Critique of the Information Deficit Model:
- Understanding the Information Deficit Model:
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- Define the information deficit model.
- Explain its underlying assumptions about communication and persuasion.
- Discuss how this model traditionally views the relationship between experts and the public regarding knowledge dissemination.
- Critique and Contemporary Relevance:
- Critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of the information deficit model in today’s information-rich environment.
- Provide examples of situations where the model might still apply and where it falls short in explaining the complexities of communication, especially in science, politics, and public discourse.
Link to reading/ podcast:
- Facts Aren’t Enough: The Psychology Of False Beliefs-https://www.npr.org/2019/07/18/743195213/facts-arent-enough-the-psychology-of-false-beliefs
- Changing Our Minds-https://www.npr.org/programs/ted-radio-hour/1056207681/changing-our-minds