In CP task 3.1, you were asked to assess your communication style preference (high of low context). There are, of course, benefits and drawbacks to each style, and one cannot say that one style is always better than the other.

PART 1

It is important to think about the way people perceive communication styles. If you do not understand other people’s approach to communication, it can lead to frustration. Below are some adjectives that might be attributed to either high or low context communication. Create a chart similar to the one below in your Coursework Portfolio Journal. Organize the adjectives to show how low and high context communication might be perceived. (call this CP Task 4.1)

ambiguous                 rude                            aggressive                 dishonest                 

vague                         repetitive                    insensitive                 elusive

tactless

full of irrelevant information                       lacking real opinions

preoccupied with the problem                   unable to focus on a problem

HIGH CONTEXT	LOW CONTEXT

PART 2

Analyze the following two emails. Then in about 120 words, (1) explain which is the high context example, (2) the advantages and drawbacks of each, and then (3) based on this comparison, explain which of the two you would prefer to send and which you would prefer to receive.

#1

Dear Staff:

We would like to remind staff that the use of company computers is restricted to work-related duties only. Please do not use company computers for personal emails, online shopping, gaming, etc. Employees who wish to do so are requested to use their breaks and lunchtime and to use their own devices.

#2

Dear Staff:

We understand the need to communicate with family and friends during work hours. There are also times when we need to take care of personal matters during work, and take breaks from a busy work schedule. However, we believe these are best done when they do not interfere with the workday and do not involve our carefully programmed computers.