DESCRIPTION:
Consider a theory that you found interesting this semester. This could be a
theory that you found to be a good explanation of human communication, or a
theory that you found out-of-date or problematic. First, review relevant
literature regarding the theory. Second, test the theory!
In a 3-6 page paper, use scholarly, peer-reviewed journal articles to
review theoretical literature. You are expected to review a minimum of
five theoretically-relevant scholarly journal articles (peer-reviewed)
After your literature review, you are to conduct (COVID-friendly)
informal research. This could consist of distributing a survey or
performing a social experiment. You must have a minimum of 15
participants. Please collect their contact information (see FAQs).
Share your findings! Include a graph, chart, or relevant display of your
findings. Be sure to also explain the findings. For instance, what question
is being answered? (e.g., I predicted that XYZ would happen in
hypothesis two. Findings support this as 40% of participants…)
Lastly, consider your findings. Do your findings support or refute the
existing body of research? How so? Please explain any unusual findings,
or any special considerations such as culture, age, environment, etc
Critical thinking is extremely important here.
You are expected to follow APA style. If you are unfamiliar with APA please
visit Purdue Owl’s website for in-text and reference citations. Also see the
example posted in your ‘Final Paper’ folder on UBLearns.
EXAMPLE*
You are interested in understanding more about Expectancy Violations Theory (EVT). You begin
by reviewing literature on EVT, with emphasis on physical touch. Specifically, you discuss the
theoretical background, underpinnings, and experimental research. Next, you begin to test
occasions when you might get a positive response by unexpectedly asking strangers for hugs.
You test out your behavior in three locations: (1) the library, (2) the grocery store, and (3) an art
festival. You find that people respond much more positively to your hug-initiative at the art
festival. You consider the nonverbal expectations that exist at the library and grocery store versus
an art festival. In addition you consider the culture of these various environments in your
discussion.
*Because EVT was used in an assignment, EVT is off limits for this assignment.