Analyze how the data you collected this semester helps us to understand some of the larger theoretical issues of interpersonal communication.
In this paper, you should provide an introduction that briefly restates the two field situations you previously analyzed and raises the interesting questions that emerged from that data.
In the body of the paper, you should include your theoretical framework, that is, the course readings that you find most help you to interpret your data. Summarize the basic argument of the key theoretical concepts you will use. Cite at least three readings. In your interpretation of data, you will need to analyze your transcriipts in relation to the course readings you have selected. Does your data support or complicate the theoretical arguments found in the readings? How? Be sure to present enough of your own data (your evidence) so that a reader will be able to assess your argument. You can do this by using direct quotations from your transcriipt as evidence. Also, discuss similarities and differences in your data across the different conversations that you recorded. Don’t force your evidence to fit all of the facets of a theory in the book. Remember that some of the most interesting work happens when we push beyond previous theories to discover new things.
In your conclusion, note what the theories you cite explain best about your data and what they do not explain about it. How do you account for any lack of fit between the theory and your data? Explain how you might revise or qualify the theory in relation to your data.
