What This Document Is
These lecture notes, originating from a COMM 306 Organizational Communication course at West Virginia University (dated November 12, 2013), delve into the complex processes surrounding how individuals integrate into organizational settings. The material focuses on theoretical frameworks used to understand organizational dynamics, particularly concerning newcomer experiences and the ongoing negotiation of structure and meaning within organizations. It explores how communication both shapes and is shaped by organizational structures, and how individuals navigate uncertainty during periods of transition.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is invaluable for students studying organizational communication, organizational behavior, or related fields. It’s particularly helpful for those seeking a deeper understanding of socialization processes, power dynamics, and information seeking behaviors within workplaces. Students preparing for class discussions, working on research projects related to organizational entry, or analyzing case studies of organizational change will find this a strong foundation. It’s best utilized *alongside* assigned readings and class lectures to solidify comprehension of core concepts.
Common Limitations or Challenges
These notes represent a specific lecture’s content and should not be considered a comprehensive textbook or substitute for all course materials. The notes are a record of concepts *discussed* and may not include exhaustive definitions or detailed case studies. It does not offer practical “how-to” guides for managing organizational socialization, nor does it provide solutions to specific organizational communication problems. Access to the full document is required for complete context and detailed explanations.
What This Document Provides
* An overview of Structuration Theory and its application to organizational settings.
* Exploration of the role of information – and the challenges of obtaining it – for new organizational members.
* Discussion of the assimilation process, including stages of anticipatory socialization and organizational encounter.
* Examination of various information-seeking strategies employed by newcomers.
* Insights into the development of organizational identification and potential for disidentification.
* Consideration of the impact of organizational structure (traditional vs. humanistic) on newcomer experiences.
