Virtual Communication Tool Part 1 (Comm2503 Small Group Communication)

Instructor’s feedback

Thanks for submitting your worksheet well before the deadline. I appreciate that!

Please go back and review the assignment instructions. You will see that each student must create their own original icebreaker. Unfortunately, your proposed icebreaker is not completely original; a quick Google search shows “Two truths and a lie” is a common, popular activity in groups.

As you see in the instructions, there is no credit earned if your icebreaker is not your own original work. However, I discussed this with my department chair, and we are in agreement that because you submitted your work on time, we are willing to allow you to revise and resubmit this assignment for partial credit.

That said, I’m concerned that you want each of your group members to upload three personal photographs. There are significant issues with this. First, some may not have any photos at all, or any photos they're willing to share. Secondly, you may not realize that individuals in many cultural groups do not want photographs taken of themselves and some cultural groups actually prohibit such photography. (It’s helpful to keep in mind that this online, asynchronous course does not require students to have/use cameras or to post a profile picture of themselves.)

If you choose to revise and resubmit (and I hope you will), you can still use Zoom. Previous classes who used this tool reminded group members of Zoom’s option to keep their profile photos hidden. Their privacy would be protected if you make it clear in the instructions that a webcam/camera is not required. They can listen and speak without being seen. And by doing this—as well as removing the requirement to share personal photographs—you can demonstrate your respect for cultural differences and individuals' desire for privacy.

You could choose to retain the “unique name” part, as long as that is your own original idea and not adapted from anyone or anything else.

The zero recorded in the grade book will be replaced by an actual score if you choose to revise and resubmit this assignment. This offer is open until 11:59 pm Saturday, 9/3/22. If you do not submit an appropriate revision by that time, the zero will unfortunately remain in your grade book.