Moral, ethical, and cross-cultural dimensions of messages.
Messages, whether advertisements, blog posts, or even casual social media updates, carry more weight than we often realize. Their interpretation varies across diverse worldviews, personal opinions, and moral frameworks, making it crucial to be intentional and thoughtful in what we put into the world.
To communicate effectively, one must not only craft messages with precision but also analyze them from multiple perspectives. This practice fosters understanding and reduces the risk of misinterpretation. The way statements are worded, framed, or delivered can significantly shape their reception, creating either clarity or confusion.
By recognizing the moral, ethical, and cultural dimensions influencing how messages are received, we can refine our communication into clear, impactful, and inclusive expressions of ideas. This thoughtful approach ensures our words contribute meaningfully to conversations and resonate across diverse audiences.
Research Methods
In my junior fall, I took a research methods course with Dr. Ray, where a semester-long project challenged us to design and execute a research study. Collaborating with my partner, Abbi O’Leary, we developed a qualitative study exploring how Generation Z reacts to targeted advertisements.
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Our study evolved as the project progressed, which became one of the most enjoyable aspects of the experience. To gather data, we curated a focus group consisting of Plymouth State University students and local community members. Through this process, we uncovered meaningful and impactful insights into how ads resonate with Generation Z.
Interpretation
Facilitating the focus group required careful attention to both verbal and non-verbal responses. With participants' consent, we audio-recorded the discussions, allowing us to analyze the nuances of their reactions more thoroughly.
Our research revealed that Generation Z is more likely to engage with brands they feel a personal connection to. Interestingly, each participant interpreted advertisements differently, shaped by their unique moral, ethical, and personal backgrounds.
As a facilitator, I gained invaluable firsthand experience in analyzing how individuals interpret and respond to messages, particularly in light of the moral and ethical dimensions of advertising. This project deepened my understanding of the complexities of communication and its influence on diverse audiences.
