The following scenario will enhance your ability to manage your online self-presentation. As you watch the first video, recall what you’ve learned about competent mediated communication, and then complete the Your Turn prompts. Finally, watch the Take Two! video to explore how this scenario could have gone differently.
1. The Problem
While hanging out with friends, Danielle imitates how her boss flirts with customers, totally unaware that her friend Tim is shooting a video of her performance. The next day, Danielle is horrified to discover that Tim has posted the video online. She asks to meet with him right away.
2. Your Turn
Observations. Reflect on how Danielle and Tim communicated in this scenario by answering the following questions:
- Which character do you identify with more in this situation? How would you feel if you were in his or her situation?
- Where were the missed opportunities to practice competent communication?
Discussion. In class or with a partner, share your thoughts about the interaction between Danielle and Tim and work to answer the following questions:
- Can you understand both perspectives?
- What could Tim and Danielle have done differently?
3. Take Two!
What if things had gone differently? Watch the Take Two! video to see one possible example of how the conversation might have gone if Tim and/or Danielle had communicated differently. As you watch the video, consider where the dialog reflects communication competence. After watching the video, answer the questions below:
- Did Tim and/or Danielle take advantage of opportunities that they missed in the first scenario? Which ones?
- Did their different actions result in a more productive encounter? Please explain.