Reflections on a Consecrated Education
Christ really is the ultimate communicator! -- Anonymous
As I reflect on the past ten semesters (four at the LDS Business College and six at BYU-Idaho) spent doing homework, I feel many emotions. I feel blessed. I think I accomplished something worthwhile. I used my time wisely. I think I applied myself (truth be told more than the average student). When I believe something is essential, I stick with it until I accomplish it. Despite constant difficulty, I have acquired many marketable skills. I feel optimistic regarding my future, including my future employment.
I wish to briefly describe the top five concepts I learned while earning my undergraduate in Professional Communication. These five concepts are simple but powerful. I list them from least to greatest in importance as based on my opinions and observations.
NOTE: Notice the spiritual implications. It is a big part of what I do and who I am. If you do not believe in God, I ask you to overlook those spiritual implications respectfully. Try and focus on how these skills, as presented through concepts, make for a more qualified employee. Also, you will notice that some thoughts contain more than one idea. Again, I ask you to bear with me. Lastly, please pay close attention to the word all. I am a firm believer that one of the most powerful words used in all of scripture is the word all. I use the word all many times throughout this piece because it has meaning to me.
Concept #5 - The Inverted Pyramid & Feature Writing
Communication professors often explained the intricate details behind the inverted pyramid. The inverted pyramid takes the most newsworthy aspects and arranges them from the most to least important. For example, during the summer of 2015, I interned at a small radio station in Idaho Falls, Idaho called Rich Broadcasting. I wrote news stories. Specifically, I wrote news stories using the inverted pyramid. Half-way through the internship, this news story was reported:
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYO. - Rangers in Yellowstone National Park rescued a New York tourist who stumbled backward into a canyon while trying to take a picture. The 71-year-old man tumbled about 25 feet Sunday evening before he stopped his fall by bracing his body and feet against a small crevice in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Officials say the man was extremely lucky because he stopped himself just short of a 200-foot drop. A park rescue team then pulled the man back to the rim using ropes and pulleys.
Notice how the most newsworthy topic is first, and then it is described and explained with further details.
I wish to briefly describe the top five concepts I learned while earning my undergraduate in Professional Communication. These five concepts are simple but powerful. I list them from least to greatest in importance as based on my opinions and observations.
NOTE: Notice the spiritual implications. It is a big part of what I do and who I am. If you do not believe in God, I ask you to overlook those spiritual implications respectfully. Try and focus on how these skills, as presented through concepts, make for a more qualified employee. Also, you will notice that some thoughts contain more than one idea. Again, I ask you to bear with me. Lastly, please pay close attention to the word all. I am a firm believer that one of the most powerful words used in all of scripture is the word all. I use the word all many times throughout this piece because it has meaning to me.
Concept #5 - The Inverted Pyramid & Feature Writing
Communication professors often explained the intricate details behind the inverted pyramid. The inverted pyramid takes the most newsworthy aspects and arranges them from the most to least important. For example, during the summer of 2015, I interned at a small radio station in Idaho Falls, Idaho called Rich Broadcasting. I wrote news stories. Specifically, I wrote news stories using the inverted pyramid. Half-way through the internship, this news story was reported:
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYO. - Rangers in Yellowstone National Park rescued a New York tourist who stumbled backward into a canyon while trying to take a picture. The 71-year-old man tumbled about 25 feet Sunday evening before he stopped his fall by bracing his body and feet against a small crevice in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Officials say the man was extremely lucky because he stopped himself just short of a 200-foot drop. A park rescue team then pulled the man back to the rim using ropes and pulleys.
Notice how the most newsworthy topic is first, and then it is described and explained with further details.
NOTE: When we are discussing newsworthiness, I note two things:
1) What makes a news story newsworthy? Newsworthy stories have a significant effect on people. The more influence a story has on people, the more it is newsworthy. It is just that simple. I try not to get tied down with meaningless details. Compelling news, important news focuses on the welfare of people.
2) What is the most newsworthy story told in world history? Isn't it obvious? Christ atoned for the sins of all humankind. Again, why so newsworthy? Because it has the most significant effect or influence, if you will, on all people in every time period. The atonement makes repentance possible.
Now, I turn my attention to feature writing. Feature writing is storytelling. I recall Emily Whitlock saying that in a class called Advanced Media Writing. Feature writing involves many steps (e.g., a synopsis, a headline (the best headlines hook the reader in), graphics, illustrations, a nugget (the single sentence takeaway - 'the so what'), transitions (best to use direct quotes acquired through interviewing), a conclusion, etc.). However, I want to focus for a moment on the nugget. In all feature writing pieces, the nugget will always be a delayed lead. For example, I wrote a feature piece for the same Advanced Media Writing class I mentioned earlier. William Conway Morris:
1) What makes a news story newsworthy? Newsworthy stories have a significant effect on people. The more influence a story has on people, the more it is newsworthy. It is just that simple. I try not to get tied down with meaningless details. Compelling news, important news focuses on the welfare of people.
2) What is the most newsworthy story told in world history? Isn't it obvious? Christ atoned for the sins of all humankind. Again, why so newsworthy? Because it has the most significant effect or influence, if you will, on all people in every time period. The atonement makes repentance possible.
Now, I turn my attention to feature writing. Feature writing is storytelling. I recall Emily Whitlock saying that in a class called Advanced Media Writing. Feature writing involves many steps (e.g., a synopsis, a headline (the best headlines hook the reader in), graphics, illustrations, a nugget (the single sentence takeaway - 'the so what'), transitions (best to use direct quotes acquired through interviewing), a conclusion, etc.). However, I want to focus for a moment on the nugget. In all feature writing pieces, the nugget will always be a delayed lead. For example, I wrote a feature piece for the same Advanced Media Writing class I mentioned earlier. William Conway Morris:
--"One night, after spending seven long days trudging through the snowy hills east of Morgan, Utah, William came home. Opening the large wooden door, William muttered underneath his breath, “Those guys want meat.” William briefly thought about the frostbite one of the men suffered during his trip.
Suddenly, little eight-year-old Henry excitedly ran to his father, William knelt on one knee, and they embraced.[i] “Have you been watching your mother and brother like I asked you too?” asked William. Henry nodded and made his way towards the kitchen. William is glad to be home despite the soon awaited unpleasant conversation with his wife, Amanda.
Slowly William rose and walked towards the kitchen. Attempting to lessen the looming tension, William said, “I smell something good.” Amanda wasn’t her usual happy self. She hugged her husband, asked him to sit down, and started plating his lamb chops. “The movers came today,” explained Amanda, her back towards her husband. With a calm voice, William said, “It's for the best.” The Morris family is experiencing a pivotal point in their lives; they are moving to central Idaho.
Notice the delayed lead and how all the rest is just details leading up to it. Notice also how the delayed lead encourages the audience to think more deeply about the characters and their precarious situation.
NOTE: When we are discussing storytelling, I note two things:
1) What are the elements found in all stories? Again, I try to simplify the answer down to the most fundamental parts. The answer has two components. The two aspects found in all storytelling are people and things (e.g., people interacting with people and people interacting with things). Examples include: Sir Elton John entertains people, Denzel Washington does theater, or Dr. Phil advises his guests. I recall Elder David A. Bednar, Increase in Learning, explaining that concept. God divides all of His creations into two parts: things that act and things that are acted upon (basically people and things).
2) What makes any story worthwhile to be told? I recall studying for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) two years ago. It was a challenge — a long and tedious process. However, a Princeton study guide helped me realize something important. All stories are worthwhile to be told because they contain either a) a problem (usually having a negative connotation) or b) a change (usually having a positive connotation). Although I want to keep pace with the writing here, I will note that problems align well with solutions. Problems and solutions are beautiful cause and effect relationships that make storytelling so compelling. While studying the scriptures, I have noticed that all problems are solved by obeying God's commandments, which in turn help us develop Christ-like attributes. Obedience is the solution to all of life's challenges.
Concept #4 - Mass Media and Society
Professor Lee Warnick clearly outlined the nine types of media that make up all mass media. Briefly, I wish to describe them with clear definitions. Again, simple but powerful. I think defining and categorizing keywords is smart and productive. Several terms are defined by asking Google. Ok, Google, what are newspapers?
TEXT MEDIA
Books. Books are collections of information. I define information as a combination of observed facts or opinions regarding people and things. As stated at the top of all webpages within this portfolio--INFORMATION IS POWER!
Newspapers. Newspapers are publications (usually issued daily or weekly) consisting of folded, unstapled sheets and containing news, feature articles, advertisements, and correspondence.
Magazines. Magazines are periodical publications containing articles and illustrations, typically covering a particular subject or area of interest.
BROADCAST MEDIA
Music. Music is the organization of sound(s).
Films/Movies. Films and movies use motion pictures/images to communicate messages.
Radio. Radio is the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves of radio frequency, especially those carrying sound messages.
Television. Television is a system for transmitting visual images and sound that are reproduced on screens, chiefly used to broadcast programs for entertainment, information, and education.
INTERACTIVE MEDIA
Video Games. Video Games are played by electronically manipulating images produced by a computer program on a television screen or other display screen.
EVERYTHING MEDIA
Suddenly, little eight-year-old Henry excitedly ran to his father, William knelt on one knee, and they embraced.[i] “Have you been watching your mother and brother like I asked you too?” asked William. Henry nodded and made his way towards the kitchen. William is glad to be home despite the soon awaited unpleasant conversation with his wife, Amanda.
Slowly William rose and walked towards the kitchen. Attempting to lessen the looming tension, William said, “I smell something good.” Amanda wasn’t her usual happy self. She hugged her husband, asked him to sit down, and started plating his lamb chops. “The movers came today,” explained Amanda, her back towards her husband. With a calm voice, William said, “It's for the best.” The Morris family is experiencing a pivotal point in their lives; they are moving to central Idaho.
Notice the delayed lead and how all the rest is just details leading up to it. Notice also how the delayed lead encourages the audience to think more deeply about the characters and their precarious situation.
NOTE: When we are discussing storytelling, I note two things:
1) What are the elements found in all stories? Again, I try to simplify the answer down to the most fundamental parts. The answer has two components. The two aspects found in all storytelling are people and things (e.g., people interacting with people and people interacting with things). Examples include: Sir Elton John entertains people, Denzel Washington does theater, or Dr. Phil advises his guests. I recall Elder David A. Bednar, Increase in Learning, explaining that concept. God divides all of His creations into two parts: things that act and things that are acted upon (basically people and things).
2) What makes any story worthwhile to be told? I recall studying for the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) two years ago. It was a challenge — a long and tedious process. However, a Princeton study guide helped me realize something important. All stories are worthwhile to be told because they contain either a) a problem (usually having a negative connotation) or b) a change (usually having a positive connotation). Although I want to keep pace with the writing here, I will note that problems align well with solutions. Problems and solutions are beautiful cause and effect relationships that make storytelling so compelling. While studying the scriptures, I have noticed that all problems are solved by obeying God's commandments, which in turn help us develop Christ-like attributes. Obedience is the solution to all of life's challenges.
Concept #4 - Mass Media and Society
Professor Lee Warnick clearly outlined the nine types of media that make up all mass media. Briefly, I wish to describe them with clear definitions. Again, simple but powerful. I think defining and categorizing keywords is smart and productive. Several terms are defined by asking Google. Ok, Google, what are newspapers?
TEXT MEDIA
Books. Books are collections of information. I define information as a combination of observed facts or opinions regarding people and things. As stated at the top of all webpages within this portfolio--INFORMATION IS POWER!
Newspapers. Newspapers are publications (usually issued daily or weekly) consisting of folded, unstapled sheets and containing news, feature articles, advertisements, and correspondence.
Magazines. Magazines are periodical publications containing articles and illustrations, typically covering a particular subject or area of interest.
BROADCAST MEDIA
Music. Music is the organization of sound(s).
Films/Movies. Films and movies use motion pictures/images to communicate messages.
Radio. Radio is the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves of radio frequency, especially those carrying sound messages.
Television. Television is a system for transmitting visual images and sound that are reproduced on screens, chiefly used to broadcast programs for entertainment, information, and education.
INTERACTIVE MEDIA
Video Games. Video Games are played by electronically manipulating images produced by a computer program on a television screen or other display screen.
EVERYTHING MEDIA
The Internet. The Internet is a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities, consisting of interconnected networks using standardized communication protocols a.k.a. The King of all mass media!
Professor Lee Warnick taught me two exciting ideas that helped me understand why the mass media is essential. First, the mass media serves two purposes: entertainment and education. All media seeks to either entertain their audiences and inform their audiences. Second, the more effort it takes to consume a particular type of media, the higher the reward (e.g., reading a book vs. watching a movie).
NOTE: When we are discussing the mass media, I note two things:
1) What is the best type of media to consume? The answer, books. The scriptures encourage us to seek knowledge out of the best books, which is ironic because the scriptures are the best books in and of themselves! Specifically, studying the scriptures is the best way to get more out of our media consumption.
NOTE: Music is also a great way to consume information and learn.
2) Why are the scriptures the best type of media to consume? The scriptures (although they require the most time, resources, and concentration, effort if you will) generate the best results. Scripture study sharpens the mind, softens the heart, increases our motivation, refines our behaviors, and allows us to become more like God. Scripture study is an underrated commandment, for sure.
Concept #3 - Principles of Design
The principles of design are beautifully simple and simply beautiful. I recall Professor Joel Judkins teaching them to me as if it were just a few weeks ago. Principles are simple, foundational, unchanging truths. They will always be the best method for accomplishing things. Principles have withstood the test of time and for a good reason. The principles of design number in four. They are as follows:
Proximity
Proximity deals with strategic spacing. It involves evenly spacing text and visuals either horizontally or vertically. Proximity also leaves white space for the eye to rest. Proximity makes the design better looking. A good example that uses white space (literally by the way) comes from a project I did for a visual media class. Notice the excellent use of white space in the top-right hand corner.
Professor Lee Warnick taught me two exciting ideas that helped me understand why the mass media is essential. First, the mass media serves two purposes: entertainment and education. All media seeks to either entertain their audiences and inform their audiences. Second, the more effort it takes to consume a particular type of media, the higher the reward (e.g., reading a book vs. watching a movie).
NOTE: When we are discussing the mass media, I note two things:
1) What is the best type of media to consume? The answer, books. The scriptures encourage us to seek knowledge out of the best books, which is ironic because the scriptures are the best books in and of themselves! Specifically, studying the scriptures is the best way to get more out of our media consumption.
NOTE: Music is also a great way to consume information and learn.
2) Why are the scriptures the best type of media to consume? The scriptures (although they require the most time, resources, and concentration, effort if you will) generate the best results. Scripture study sharpens the mind, softens the heart, increases our motivation, refines our behaviors, and allows us to become more like God. Scripture study is an underrated commandment, for sure.
Concept #3 - Principles of Design
The principles of design are beautifully simple and simply beautiful. I recall Professor Joel Judkins teaching them to me as if it were just a few weeks ago. Principles are simple, foundational, unchanging truths. They will always be the best method for accomplishing things. Principles have withstood the test of time and for a good reason. The principles of design number in four. They are as follows:
Proximity
Proximity deals with strategic spacing. It involves evenly spacing text and visuals either horizontally or vertically. Proximity also leaves white space for the eye to rest. Proximity makes the design better looking. A good example that uses white space (literally by the way) comes from a project I did for a visual media class. Notice the excellent use of white space in the top-right hand corner.
Alignment
Alignment deals with strategic positioning. It involves arranging text and visuals with a flushed left alignment or a flushed right alignment. Professor Judkins encouraged the students to avoid using a center alignment because it makes the whole composition appear weaker. Alignment makes the messages within the design more clearly communicated. Notice how every single webpage found inside this website has a flushed left alignment!
Repetition
Repetition deals with strategic reiteration. It involves repeating text and visuals throughout a design. It consists of repeating page numbers, font sizes, and colors in specific places. Repetition helps audiences better follow the elements found within the communication design. Notice the good use of repetition with colors, font sizes, and essential ideas within this communication portfolio, which make for a more cohesive design.
Contrast
Contrast deals with strategic differentiation. It involves placing light-colored text or visuals against dark color backgrounds or vica versa. Contrast is the most simple principle of design. However, if you used it correctly, it creates a striking visual effect. The best distinction is black on white and white on black. Again, notice how every single webpage found inside this website uses sharp contrast.
NOTE: When we are discussing the principles of design, I note two things:
1) Do the scriptures implement the principles of design effectively? The answer is a resounding, yes! All words and visuals are spaced, arranged, repeated, and contrasted with precision and accuracy. The systematic publishing of information is best accomplished by a) contemplating the principles of design and b) applying them. The scriptures are visually cohesive and beautifully presented.
2) Do the principles of design apply only to visual effects? The answer is no. The principles of design apply to two other communication areas: writing and storytelling. Notice how words evenly spaced are easier to read. Notice how repeated words reinforce important messages with greater clearly. In terms of storytelling, good storytellers contrast people with other people (e.g., Darth Vader battles Luke Skywalker, Simba confronts Scar, Batman fights crime).
Concept #2 - The Active Voice
I first learned about the active voice when I took a class called Advanced Media Writing. At first glance, the idea did not seem like anything too impressive. However, the active voice is the second most important concept I learned while completing my undergraduate. The best way to build a well written/spoken sentence is by using the active voice. The active voice has three parts a) a subject b) a verb and c) an object. A website called literary devices defined the active voice this way:
-- "In grammar, an active voice is a type of a clause or sentence in which a subject performs an action and expresses it through its representative verb. When a subject acts directly, it is in the active voice. It then uses a transitive verb to show the action.
Style guides usually encourage the use of active voice because it is clear and direct. For example, "Some customers prefer mulled ale. They keep their mugs on the hob until the ale gets as hot as coffee. A sluggish cat named Minnie sleeps in a scuttle beside the stove" (The Old House at Home, by Joseph Mitchell). All of these sentences are in the active voice, as the verbs "refer," "keep," "get," and "sleep" are in active mode."
NOTE: All examples are in the present tense, and even though I meant not to be sexist, all subjects were males.
Simple Well Written Examples of the Active Voice:
Complex Well Written Examples of the Active Voice:
NOTE: When we are discussing the active voice, I note two things:
1) What are some well-written statements used in the scriptures? Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden. Cain murdered Abel. Moses parted the Red Sea. Christ atoned for the sins of all mankind. Joseph Smith saw and conversed with the Father and the Son. Brigham Young led the saints. Modern-day apostles and prophets testify of Christ.
Alignment deals with strategic positioning. It involves arranging text and visuals with a flushed left alignment or a flushed right alignment. Professor Judkins encouraged the students to avoid using a center alignment because it makes the whole composition appear weaker. Alignment makes the messages within the design more clearly communicated. Notice how every single webpage found inside this website has a flushed left alignment!
Repetition
Repetition deals with strategic reiteration. It involves repeating text and visuals throughout a design. It consists of repeating page numbers, font sizes, and colors in specific places. Repetition helps audiences better follow the elements found within the communication design. Notice the good use of repetition with colors, font sizes, and essential ideas within this communication portfolio, which make for a more cohesive design.
Contrast
Contrast deals with strategic differentiation. It involves placing light-colored text or visuals against dark color backgrounds or vica versa. Contrast is the most simple principle of design. However, if you used it correctly, it creates a striking visual effect. The best distinction is black on white and white on black. Again, notice how every single webpage found inside this website uses sharp contrast.
NOTE: When we are discussing the principles of design, I note two things:
1) Do the scriptures implement the principles of design effectively? The answer is a resounding, yes! All words and visuals are spaced, arranged, repeated, and contrasted with precision and accuracy. The systematic publishing of information is best accomplished by a) contemplating the principles of design and b) applying them. The scriptures are visually cohesive and beautifully presented.
2) Do the principles of design apply only to visual effects? The answer is no. The principles of design apply to two other communication areas: writing and storytelling. Notice how words evenly spaced are easier to read. Notice how repeated words reinforce important messages with greater clearly. In terms of storytelling, good storytellers contrast people with other people (e.g., Darth Vader battles Luke Skywalker, Simba confronts Scar, Batman fights crime).
Concept #2 - The Active Voice
I first learned about the active voice when I took a class called Advanced Media Writing. At first glance, the idea did not seem like anything too impressive. However, the active voice is the second most important concept I learned while completing my undergraduate. The best way to build a well written/spoken sentence is by using the active voice. The active voice has three parts a) a subject b) a verb and c) an object. A website called literary devices defined the active voice this way:
-- "In grammar, an active voice is a type of a clause or sentence in which a subject performs an action and expresses it through its representative verb. When a subject acts directly, it is in the active voice. It then uses a transitive verb to show the action.
Style guides usually encourage the use of active voice because it is clear and direct. For example, "Some customers prefer mulled ale. They keep their mugs on the hob until the ale gets as hot as coffee. A sluggish cat named Minnie sleeps in a scuttle beside the stove" (The Old House at Home, by Joseph Mitchell). All of these sentences are in the active voice, as the verbs "refer," "keep," "get," and "sleep" are in active mode."
NOTE: All examples are in the present tense, and even though I meant not to be sexist, all subjects were males.
Simple Well Written Examples of the Active Voice:
- John plays baseball.
- Hank collects minerals.
- Micheal attends prom.
Complex Well Written Examples of the Active Voice:
- Mark Hamill attends an Oxford sponsored, question and answer session.
- Chef Gordon Ramsay chastises Hell's Kitchen contestants.
- President Donald J. Trump declares a national emergency to allocate additional funding to build a wall at the southern border.
NOTE: When we are discussing the active voice, I note two things:
1) What are some well-written statements used in the scriptures? Adam and Eve were cast out of the Garden of Eden. Cain murdered Abel. Moses parted the Red Sea. Christ atoned for the sins of all mankind. Joseph Smith saw and conversed with the Father and the Son. Brigham Young led the saints. Modern-day apostles and prophets testify of Christ.
2) What is an excellent example of a well-written gospel headline? Genesis 1:1 - "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth." I love this scripture. It is powerful for many reasons, which include:
This verse:
Concept #1 - Audience Analysis
Hindsight is always greater. I recall working as a watercraft inspector in the summer of 2014. I was working for Utah State Parks trying to keep Quagga and Zebra mussels out of Bear Lake. The employees and I would 'decontaminate' all watercrafts that operated within 'infested' waters. We used those popular terms often as we performed our everyday tasks. Anyway, during the slow times, all employees had two options a) play on their phones or tablets or b) read books. I chose to read books. I felt it was a wiser choice.
I recall reading a small yet well-written textbook called A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking. Throughout the textbook, the author refers to a concept called 'audience analysis.' The author defines audience analysis as "the process of gathering and analyzing information about audience members with the explicit aim of adapting [one's] message to the information [one] uncovers" (Page 36). Personally, I define audience analysis a bit differently. I think audience analysis is the systematic gathering and analyzing of information from the audience with the explicit aim of adapting one's message to meet the needs and wants of the audience. Indirectly, this definition communicates the importance of focusing on needs rather than wants. At any rate, I feel that learning about audience analysis has refined my communication abilities, but how?
Think for a moment about the ideas that make up building a strong resume. How does one build a strong resume? One needs several skills including but not limited too:
Still, all is in vain. Why? Because the resume lacks personalization. It lacks careful adaptation. Thus, it is less effective. My argument here is simple. The best resumes, truth be told the best forms of media, are the ones that maintain an audience-centered-approach to all steps in the process. Carefully selecting words and phrases that resonate well with future, potential employers are not just underrated but prove to be very useful and fruitful when writing and presenting one's resume.
NOTE: When we are discussing audience analysis, I note two things:
This verse:
- Maintains an audience-centered approach by clearly stating essential truths sooner rather than later.
- Uses an outstanding prepositional phrase that indicates when the event occurred, at the beginning of time!
- Strategically uses the active voice (subject-verb-object agreement).
- Uses an active verb, creation (some say that the verb is the most critical part of speech because it relates to most if not all other parts of a sentence).
- Describes one of the grand functions of Godhood--mainly creating worlds without number.
- Logically outlines the sequences of what came first, second, and third. The heavens were created before the earth and before humankind received a temporal body.
- Clearly outlines the ideas of God's plan of salvation--mainly heaven, earth, creation, and eternal progression.
Concept #1 - Audience Analysis
Hindsight is always greater. I recall working as a watercraft inspector in the summer of 2014. I was working for Utah State Parks trying to keep Quagga and Zebra mussels out of Bear Lake. The employees and I would 'decontaminate' all watercrafts that operated within 'infested' waters. We used those popular terms often as we performed our everyday tasks. Anyway, during the slow times, all employees had two options a) play on their phones or tablets or b) read books. I chose to read books. I felt it was a wiser choice.
I recall reading a small yet well-written textbook called A Pocket Guide to Public Speaking. Throughout the textbook, the author refers to a concept called 'audience analysis.' The author defines audience analysis as "the process of gathering and analyzing information about audience members with the explicit aim of adapting [one's] message to the information [one] uncovers" (Page 36). Personally, I define audience analysis a bit differently. I think audience analysis is the systematic gathering and analyzing of information from the audience with the explicit aim of adapting one's message to meet the needs and wants of the audience. Indirectly, this definition communicates the importance of focusing on needs rather than wants. At any rate, I feel that learning about audience analysis has refined my communication abilities, but how?
Think for a moment about the ideas that make up building a strong resume. How does one build a strong resume? One needs several skills including but not limited too:
- Strong writing skills.
- Implementing the principles of design.
- Putting the most important details first.
Still, all is in vain. Why? Because the resume lacks personalization. It lacks careful adaptation. Thus, it is less effective. My argument here is simple. The best resumes, truth be told the best forms of media, are the ones that maintain an audience-centered-approach to all steps in the process. Carefully selecting words and phrases that resonate well with future, potential employers are not just underrated but prove to be very useful and fruitful when writing and presenting one's resume.
NOTE: When we are discussing audience analysis, I note two things:
1) What makes the Sermon on the Mount such a moving speech? Was it the use of anaphora (using successive words and phrases in one's sentencing structure)? Was it the beautiful blend of explanation, quoting of scripture (anything Christ says becomes scripture truth be told), proper use of questions, or the wise implementing of compelling testimonial experiences? Was it the perfect eye contact He made with His audience? Was it because Christ Himself is the actual creator of the world, which made His words more credible? Is it considered by many to be the most significant speech ever given or recorded because Christ spoke sincerely from the heart while informing, persuading, and marking a special occasion simultaneously?
Indeed, all these questions raise many thought-provoking answers but keep in mind, what we are discussing here--audience analysis! I will unrelentingly propose that the most significant cause and effect in all the communication process is knowing and adapting one's messages to first, meet people's needs and second, their wants. That fact is no more self-evident than in Christ's message to the large gathering of people near the Sea of Galilee. I imagine Christ taking the time and resources required, beforehand, to laugh, cry, and listen to the needs of the people. After gathering and analyzing the required information, He spoke to the multitude. Blessed are those that keep God's commandments!
2) How does one teach, effectively, the doctrines and principles of the gospel? The Preach My Gospel manuel outlines the four concepts needed to teach well and consistently. They include:
All four concepts are essential to teaching the gospel. They are vital. However, imagine if a missionary or Sunday school teacher does not contemplate students needs and wants. Again, as stated previously, all communication efforts are in vain. The best teachers explain doctrines and principles, quote scripture, ask thought-provoking questions, and bear testimony with the intent of adapting the message to meet the audience's needs and wants.
I end as I began, as I as I reflect on the past ten semesters (four at the LDS Business College and six at BYU-Idaho) spent doing homework, I feel many emotions. I feel blessed. I think I accomplished something worthwhile. I used my time wisely. I think I applied myself (truth be told more than the average student). When I believe something is essential, I stick with it until I accomplish it. Despite constant difficulty, I have acquired many marketable skills. I feel optimistic regarding my future, including my future employment.
Thank you for reading my thoughts, comments, and opinions regarding the top five concepts I learned while earning my undergraduate in Professional Communication. These five concepts are simple but powerful. I look forward to learning more about Professional Communication and refining my skills wherever life takes me!
Indeed, all these questions raise many thought-provoking answers but keep in mind, what we are discussing here--audience analysis! I will unrelentingly propose that the most significant cause and effect in all the communication process is knowing and adapting one's messages to first, meet people's needs and second, their wants. That fact is no more self-evident than in Christ's message to the large gathering of people near the Sea of Galilee. I imagine Christ taking the time and resources required, beforehand, to laugh, cry, and listen to the needs of the people. After gathering and analyzing the required information, He spoke to the multitude. Blessed are those that keep God's commandments!
2) How does one teach, effectively, the doctrines and principles of the gospel? The Preach My Gospel manuel outlines the four concepts needed to teach well and consistently. They include:
- Explaining gospel doctrine and principles using your own words.
- Quoting scripture adding prophetic authority to the presented concepts.
- Asking thought-provoking questions inspiring others to make better choices.
- Bearing testimony invites the Holy Ghost to bear witness further.
All four concepts are essential to teaching the gospel. They are vital. However, imagine if a missionary or Sunday school teacher does not contemplate students needs and wants. Again, as stated previously, all communication efforts are in vain. The best teachers explain doctrines and principles, quote scripture, ask thought-provoking questions, and bear testimony with the intent of adapting the message to meet the audience's needs and wants.
I end as I began, as I as I reflect on the past ten semesters (four at the LDS Business College and six at BYU-Idaho) spent doing homework, I feel many emotions. I feel blessed. I think I accomplished something worthwhile. I used my time wisely. I think I applied myself (truth be told more than the average student). When I believe something is essential, I stick with it until I accomplish it. Despite constant difficulty, I have acquired many marketable skills. I feel optimistic regarding my future, including my future employment.
Thank you for reading my thoughts, comments, and opinions regarding the top five concepts I learned while earning my undergraduate in Professional Communication. These five concepts are simple but powerful. I look forward to learning more about Professional Communication and refining my skills wherever life takes me!