Week 2 Readings

Week Two Readings
Public Relations-Theory and Practice "Strategy, Planning and Scheduling" Edited by Jane Johnston and Clara Zawawi
Problem Based Learning
Group Work and Collaorative Writing Booklet By Brian Connery and John L. Vohs

I believe the key messages from this week's readings were;
The main messages from 'Public Relations-Theory and Practice' were with regard to how important strategies can be implemented to great effect within various organisations. Public relations practitioners can guide an organisation's communication and therefore can be one of the most respected and successful departments within an organisation. Public relations practitioners also can effectively handle any crisis and have the responsibility for the companies' corporate image. This chapter also highlighted the importance of effective, two-way communication.

The Group Work Booklet highlighted the practical nature of group work and how important the skills learnt through group work could be applied to later employment. The main message was that group work can be difficult, and common problems do arise however working through these problems is rewarding and every member has something to contribute.

The key message of the 'Problem-Based Learning' is that learning is the student's responsibility and outline how this would start flow of learning and problem solving which will be a very well received skill.

The Key Points in the Readings could be applied to my group's work in that they;
The 'Group Work Booklet' will be helpful in all aspects of the group work project. In particular the information on how to effectively use the meetings, and 'break the ice' as I get to know my group. The Four phases also help to outline a normal pattern for a group task, and lets us know that conflicts do not have a totally negative effect on the assignment. In fact conflict can lead to a stronger solution to the problem.

The Readings made Me think more about Public Relations theory/practice in that;
The 'Strategy, Planning and Scheduling' chapter helped me to think about Public Relations in a professional setting. It highlighted the particular task that are undertaken by Public Relations Practitioners, including leading effective communication through-out an organisation, budgeting, strategic planning and creation of misson and vision statements.

The 'Group Work Booklet' made me think about how important team work skills are, and how these will be a great asset to me when attempting to gain employment.

The Readings related to the other readings I've done in previous weeks in that;
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