Introduction to
Communication Ethics
Final
Essay Assignment
SAMPLE
Complete all of the steps below. Be
sure to separate each step (indicating clearly which step you are addressing in
each section). Be sure as well to address all of the “prompts” provided. Suggested length: 5-9 (double-spaced, typed) pages.
Step One: Select one
of the communication
ethics case studies explored this semester. As concisely as possible, provide a
narrative detailing the relevant facts
in the case. Be sure the narrative is comprehensive,
including enough detail to provide readers a clear understanding of the case
(carefully avoiding inclusion of extraneous information). Be sure as well that
the narrative is fair and representative of the diverse “voices”
at the heart of the case.
Step
Two: Provide a concise overview of the communication ethics challenge at the heart of
the case. In your overview, be sure to identify
the decision maker(s) clearly. Be sure as well to provide thoughtful
overviews of the competing values and
conflicting obligations confronting the decision maker(s) at the heart of
the case.
Step Three: Provide brief overviews of communicative choices available to the decision maker(s). Be sure to include all viable options meeting the criteria for reasonableness and responsiveness outlined throughout the semester.
Step Four: Identify key values and beliefs
shared by all members of the deliberative community. Be sure to include only directly relevant values, assumptions, and
related beliefs of importance to deliberations in the case.
Step
Five: Identify the communicative choice you believe would best meet the standards of
ethical justification explored throughout the semester. Provide an overview of the most compelling support available for
your choice.
Step
Six: Provide a brief overview of deliberative partners’ concerns
regarding your choice.
Step
Seven:
Craft a complete argumentative essay integrating the information and insights
presented in Steps One-Six. To the
extent possible, create conditions for dialogic engagement demonstrating that
you have heard and understood deliberative partners’ perspective, values,
beliefs, and concerns, and fostering the reader’s abilities to hear and
understand what you are seeking to convey. Be sure the essay meets the shared criteria
and standards for technical competency and presentational skills, as well as
the other guidelines for ethical and effective dialogue, advocacy, deliberation,
and written communication explored throughout the semester as well.