The lectures provided unique ethical lessons, which are interesting to learn. For instance, the ethical implications of communication draw on the everyday interaction of culture and people. We examined texts that impart audiences and the impact of choices as a means to understand ethical theories. Among the intriguing lessons include freedom of expression. With the freedom of expression, I learned that I could be sued for what I tweet and blog. I learned about the rights of communication in school, as well as privacy and theories relating to the topic. What I really preferred is the different learning way for the course. Dr.Z randomly split into small groups and each group chooses a case study related to the assigned topic. The impressive case study from the course is strategic communication management. The case study is remarkable owing to the concept involved, which relates to theories of ethics taught in class. It is easy to relate and interpret the case.
Two important ethical lessons
One of the most impact lessons I learned from the lecture was honesty. As a journalist, it is important to stay true to the audience and yourself. When we had watched the film, Shattered Glass, in-class time. It is unethical for Glass to lie to his audience and co-workers. It is a significant mistake for a journalist. What’s more, I learned four classic theories of ethics in the course. They are rule-based thinking, end-based thinking, the Golden rule, and Aristotle’s Golden Mean which could help journalists how to approach decisions and put into perspective what consequence is the most important.
One case study impressed me the most
We have analyzed lots of case studies. The one that impressed me the most is on Stephen Glass. I was first introduced to this case in news ethics. After we watched the movie in class, I deeply understood this is a great case to start the course. It is a real-life story about Stephen Glass with his act of lying to people raising questions on the integrity of the journalism of America. The young journalist lost fame after the discovery of fabricating his news stories. As he continued to lie to colleagues and the public, Grass faced the terrible consequences of dishonesty. His fictional story ultimately not only lost his reputation but also destroyed the image and trustworthiness of the New Republic.
Impact of the Course on Future Career and Life
Comm409 will impact my future career. It is helpful in my future public relations field. As a representative of a particular brand, I have an ethical view of the information provided to the audience and are more likely to be loyal to them than to the organization. This course also taught me how to make a decision in difficulty. The most important is Comm409 taught me always to speak the truth and do not deceive anyone in life. Last but not least, the course is critical in my life since it shapes how I communicate with others and express myself. For instance, I will express myself professionally in a context that requires me to and carry myself with dignity in other areas. The course will help communicate with friends and family. I will be able to discern when one is not telling the truth.
Reflection of the Course
Overall, Comm409 has been exciting, and Dr.Z is very helpful. He is my favorite Chinese professor at Penn State University. We have a great time and interesting talking in his office hours. I really enjoy his course and want to continue a good relationship with him. The different learning ways, presentations enhance my learning experience. I have managed to learn a lot from the course, make friends, and, importantly, discover my weaknesses in communication, which I have improved significantly.