Using communication as a tool for realizing reforms/changes in the bureaucracy

Corruption has long been an unyielding issue in our country, from one administration to another. Many times our country has ben dubbed as the ‘Sick Man of Asia’ and was even entered Guinness Book of World Records for allegedly the biggest corruption of all times during the time of former president Ferdinand Marcos (Moratalla, n.d.). But what really is corruption. Corruption is the use of public fund, materials and goods in enriching oneself, family and acquaintances. In addition Samura wrote that, corruption is the illegitimate use of office by public officer for personal intention (2009). Furthermore, Quebral added that corruption exists in any society but it is more prevalent in developing countries (2012). Corruption deters development, aggravate poverty and heighten social injustices. In fact, poverty has long been used by politician as their vehicle and ‘glue’ to power.  I’d say, in the Philippines corruption is a way of life. Hearing and watching news about a public official from national or local office charged for violating RA 3019 or ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT is not a surprise to us anymore, we are so accustomed to it that we don’t do anything to counteract this problem. But I guess, we ordinary people can still do something as the former president of India Pratibha Patil said, “Corruption is the enemy of development, and of good governance. It must be got rid of. Both the government and the people at large must come together to achieve this national objective (2012).”  I totally agree with her since behind the different scams done by the past and present administrations were the courageous whistleblowers. They brave themselves to stand among others and tell the nation what they know and witnessed against these public officials. But what instigate them to do it, when in fact their lives and the lives of their families were at risk. Is it because they were not given their part of the bargain? According to them they wanted to vindicate themselves especially their conscience, they claimed that they can’t sleep at night feeling that it was not right to just shut their mouth and do nothing. Therefore, the whistleblowers’ moral values and fear of the Supreme Being hammered them to tell the truth.

Photo Credit [Miranda, J.]. Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=453481268188268&set=a.141864556016609.1073741827.100005791953734&type=3&theater

Hence, what can we Development Communicators do to create reforms in our government? First of all, it is must that we have a deep sense of commitment and acceptance of responsibility (Quebral, 2012). That is to make sure that the changes we are aiming to make will be realized.  Secondly, we need to understand that development means more than economic development. According to Lagerway, development is a total approach. It does not only involve economic programs. The development of people is the main focus (n.d.). Thus, as communicators of development, we motivate and empower people, we help people recognize their potential; we open their eyes into something that they don’t clearly understand, we stimulate their interest, Thereby, the approach is more on human development. And if we can do that then there’s a probability of behavioral change then a course of action. Ong added that for economic development to happen we need to better our social structures, have relative peace and order, highly motivated people, a skilled labor force, a minimum of GRAFT AND CORRUPTION, and so much more. Furthermore, he said that when talking about social justice we talk about moral values (n.d.). Therefore, in my opinion moral development is crucial to help combat corruption. We need to dig deeper our inner selves and remind ourselves again the values and morals our parents and our church had taught us. We need to change our attitude and get ourselves involve. The Moral Recovery Program (Proclamation No. 62) initiated by former president Fidel Ramos in 1992 is a profound development program that aims to inculcate following virtues for national development: teach the rights and duties of citizenship, strengthen ethical and spiritual values, develop moral character and personal discipline, encourage critical and creative thinking, and respect human rights. It stated that there is a need of moral recovery in order to eradicate the social ills that have afflicted us for the past several decades, such as graft and corruption, patronage politics, apathy, etc. It further added that moral recovery is an integral aspect in ensuring success in the government’s economic development and people empowerment programs and projects (GovPh, 1992). I believe this is a holistic approach in helping minimize if not eradicate corruption.

In development communication there are various communication tools used by communicators to empower the people; the Information, Education, and Communication (IEC), photography, mass media, and the internet and social networking sites. So how can I use these communication tools to create reforms in the government? With enough budget and support from stakeholders, making and distributing IEC materials such as leaflet, newsletters, brochures, posters, comics, flyers, t-shirts and caps with anti-corruption messages or information would enhance people’s understanding about corruption. One good example is to inform the people about the Republic Act 3019 or Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act using leaflets or brochures, writing newsletters on the stories of the whistleblowers on what motivate them to come out and disclose the corrupt practices of public officials, and printing short bible verses about corruption on t-shirts, caps and even umbrellas. On the other hand, I can also use photography to instigate awareness as 65 percent of us are visual learners (Brown, 1998). This only mean that we easily learn and pick-up an information through our eyes.  Moreover, photography has the power to bring about change. They evoke emotion and deliver information that can provoke people to action (Transparency International, 2015). Photography enables me to show the people a scenario created by the government not only in my community but also in various places I go to. To mention few, difficulties of farmers due to inaccessible road, traffic rules not totally regulated such as cars parked in each side of the road, unfinished projects or projects that are taking too long to finish such as roads or bridges, the many faces of ubiquitous poverty in the community, and more. Additionally, since most of us use smartphone to shoot videos and capture I would also encourage participation in Social Networking Sites to share their photographs of corruption thus showing the nation what is our government doing. It reminds me how Janet Napoles and the senators involved in the PDAF scam obstinately denied their involvement together; but their partying photographs showed the nation they were liars.  Another useful communication tool is the mass media. Utriainen professed that the media can employ investigative journalism to reveal inequities, and violations and, in an educational sense, reinforce social values that reduce the incidence of corruption in government and business (n.d.).  Therefore, radio and television are the watchdogs, the gatekeepers that can monitor the government and the voice social injustices. The radio, it is commonly described as a mass medium because can reach millions of people anytime of the day and can surpass boundaries. And so, creating meaningful scripts and dramas incorporating corruption or anti-corruption laws and making gag shows that mock the wrongdoings of the corrupt public official are another way of forming awareness and educating people. One good example is I can’t help to share is the ABC 5 show ‘Bayaw’, it is a perfect way to ridicule the politicians and other public officials in our country. Last but not the least; I can also employ the services of the internet and social networking sites. These have been a common ground to communicators who wanted to educate and inform, and a channel to many who wanted to vent their dismay and fury over the government and public officials. As we Filipinos are very social and we love meeting in various social networking sites, I guess it’s perfect to circulate photos and actual videos of personalities and politicians creating news due to grave misconduct. They say fish is caught by its mouth, as the nation once again witnessed how Napoles and her family lavishly lived in California when the blog and videos of her daughter went viral. In addition posting short bible verses and quotes about values and good morals would remind the people what is good and bad. Spreading visual art parodies and information on corruption and anti-graft and corruption laws would give them ideas and therefore guide them in guarding our so called ‘Kaban ng Bayan’.  And again, encourage the participation of the people as the internet and social networking sites are one fast and effective way of mobilizing social issues and information.

As a closing remark, I am truly grateful on the advancement of communication technologies as it has always been steadfast in spreading significant information. From the time of the Estrada’s administration to present, we transparently see what they have been doing to our country. To fellow development communicators let us give our unwavering support to fight corruption and continue to educate and inform the people in our community and our country.

May you have a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!!!

Cheers!

Diaz, Gemma P.

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References:

QUEBRAL, N.  (2012). Development Communication Primer.  Southbound, Penang.

Samura, B. K. (2009, January 25). The Negative Effects of Corruption on Developing Nations: A Perspective on Sierra Leone’s Effort. Retrieve from http://www.carl-sl.org/home/articles/125-the-negative-effects-of-corruption-on-developing-nations-a-perspective-on-sierra-leones-effort-to

Moratalla, N. N. (n.d.). Graft and Corruption: The Philippines Experience. Retrieved from http://unpan1.un.org/intradoc/groups/public/documents/APCITY/UNPAN019122.pdf

Ong, G. V. (n.d.). A Theory of Development Communication. Retrieved from http://cfamedia.org/main/?p=2417

Lagerway, F. (n.d.). Introduction to Development Communication: Its Philosophy and Approach. Retrieved from http://cfamedia.org/main/?p=2427

Utriainen, T. (n.d.). 8^th International Anti-Corruption Conference. Retrieved from http://www.8iacc.org/papers/utriainen.html

Transparency International. (2015, May 5). Capturing Corruption: Global Photo Competition. Retrieved from http://www.transparency.org/news/feature/capturing_corruption_global_photo_competition

E-Com: Practicing e-communication in my organization

In the past, telephone was the fastest communication after which email was the finest way to communicate online. At present, communication has become unprecedented and real-time. You will never miss a friend, a family or a relative from the other side of the globe. You can always talk to them anytime, anywhere through instant messaging or even video chat. That’s how technology advances electronic communication. Moreover, it does not only ease connecting with love ones but it made it possible to anyone to work at the comfort of their homes. It eases communication not only from organization to another but also within the organization.

For someone who works with a company online, I found out that there are many advantages and few restrictions. I got to enjoy working at the comfort of my home on my own pace and use free time productively at home. But what are some of the restrictions? Because the company could not monitor use while doing our job, feedback from the clients had force them to flood us with very long do’s and don’ts at least twice a week. Another thing which really took our freedom is that they created a virtual classroom where student and teacher meet that somehow made it possible for them to visit from time to time to check if the teacher is really doing her job.

The policies are as follows:

1. Be responsible.

Attend classes at all times. Avoid getting in the class late. Respect each other’s time. Always start and end the class on time. In case of emergency, always inform the manager to facilitate looking for a substitute teacher.

2. Make sure internet, laptop or computer and headset are working properly.

Monitor internet speed, check sound setting and headset in order to give the client the best possible service

3. Concentrate while teaching.

Pay attention to the student. Correct and type any mistakes incurred by the student while speaking or writing. Don’t give students games to play. Don’t do anything such as chatting with others or doing something on Facebook. Be honest.

4. Cooperate with the Korea office.

Send Daily Reports on time and Level Test Report every end of the month. Follow rules and regulations. Remember that your attitude affects our clients and the number of clients affects your job.

The creation of policies and change of VOiP used in class due to the misbehavior and abuse of some teachers in using e-communication had created inconvenience to most of us. I myself was quite happy with the use of Skype during class and can freely talk to my student without worrying on a spy but the establishment of new virtual classroom had caused uproar to many teachers. First of all, the classroom requires a higher internet speed which needs an upgrade to many. This means additional burden for teachers. Secondly, anyone from the Korea office can enter the new classroom which teachers complain that would make them uncomfortable therefore disrupting the class. But of course the new policy and technology was strictly implemented and after few months, everyone got accustomed with it.

Furthermore, e-communication has been really helpful in terms of research since we are given students of different background, age and level of English we have to create lesson plans that suit their needs. The availability of various English websites has made it possible for us to do that. IF the student needs purely conversation class, or just reading and vocabulary all we do is to search it on the net then share the link and go on with the class. E-communication has eased the pain of creating lesson plans to each student.

E-communication has created tremendous change in our life. Abuses and dangers are made by the people who are irresponsible on their actions. The good and the bad effects of e-communication should not be blamed to itself but to the people who are using it. So before doing something that will ruin you, think again. Think ten thousand times!

E-Com: The medium is the message

Do you watch TV, what kind of TV programs do you like? How about commercials, how do you feel when it interrupt the program you are watching?

Do you find the radio still useful? Do you still turn it on? Do you have it at home?

What about the internet, do you have internet at home? Do you use mobile internet? What do you use the internet for? Entertainment, education, work?

Anyway, whatever is the purpose of the different medium you are using right now. I do hope it made a great impact on you and the people around you.

Let’s take a look at this short ad I got from the YouTube.

 

So what do you think? What medium is use? What do you think is the message? Before reading the meaning of the “The medium is the message”, I thought the medium is the TV and the message is  “How to get a girlfriend?” but then I found out I was wrong.  Reading some explanation about the “The medium is the message”, I now understand that through that advertisement the medium is to advertise the product, PLDT MyDsl and the message to persuade the viewer to subscribe.

When it comes to understanding these various media, Marshall McLuhan is one of the best to learn from. He’s one of the educators and pioneer of the study of communication and its evolution McLuhan introduced a lot of observations about the impact of new forms of expression and media. He was the one who coined the expression “The medium is the message”.

According to Federman (2004), the way we understood the medium and the message is what we only see with our eyes, its literal meaning. He then explained that “message” is the change of scale or pace or pattern of the new invention or innovation introduced to human affairs. He further added that,

 "A McLuhan message always tells us to look beyond the obvious and seek the non-obvious changes or effects that are enabled, enhanced, accelerated or extended by the new thing.” 

Therefore, the message is not the content the medium is telling us but the transformation it can do to us or the society whether it is good or bad. In other words, we have dig deeper, to read between the lines. What does the message want to tell us?  For example, in weather forecast. We know that usually it tells us what’s going to be the weather today or in a week. But the real message is that the changes of weather pattern. Why is today rainy and tomorrow it’s going to be scorching hot. Why is it freezing this morning then it becomes stormy at noon. Thus, the weather forecast wanted to convey something deeper, climate change. Therefore what can we do prevent it from totally destroying the mother earth?

Take a look on this picture below. What do you think is the message? and the medium?

Baguio City, view from Quirino Hill. Photographed by yours truly. ^_^

So if the message is to create change or action to the receiver, what about the medium? What does the medium really mean? 

"The medium, is an extension of ourselves." 

Hence Bobbit (2011) then said that, medium is not only the extension of our body such as our hands, fingers, legs, feet, brain or our whole physical being but also the media or technologies. Thus, the wheel extends our feet, the phone extends our voice, television extends our eyes and ears, the computer extends our brain, and electronic media, in general, extend our central nervous system. He then added that language is also a medium because it is an extension of our inner thoughts, ideas, and feelings. A good example of medium is the computer. Through it we are able to access the internet; through the message of the internet we have gained numerous information and knowledge. The internet made real-time communication possible. Without the internet the computer would just be a device. We would not have enjoying the comfort and convenience in communication we are having at present. And the internet would be worthless without the computer.

Here's another video on "The medium is the message." I hope it'll help.

So, why is it useful to understand this expression? Federman (2004) wrote that “The medium is the message" enlighten us that awareness on changes in our society shows the presence of a new message, that is, the effects of a new medium. This means that the change that we notice becomes a warning, this warning will then guides us to identify and develop innovations before it becomes pervasive. 

As McLuhan reminds us, 

"Control over change would seem to consist in moving not with it but ahead of it. Anticipation gives the power to deflect and control force." (McLuhan 199)

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References:

Federman, M. (2004, July 23). What is the Meaning of the Medium is the Message? Retrieved September 29, 2015 from http://individual.utoronto.ca/markfederman/article_mediumisthemessage.htm

Bobbit, D. (2011, December 30). Teaching McLuhan: Understanding Understanding Media. A Journal of Rhetoric Writing and Culture. Retrieved September 30, 2015 from http://enculturation.net/teaching-mcluhan

Video Credit:

PLDT Home. (2014, March 28). PLDT HOME DSL Ask Diego [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLKBD_DT2sk

BBC Radio 4. (2015, January 27). The Medium is the Message [Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ko6J9v1C9zE

E-Com: Emergence of Technology

Oh yeah! We are now on the era of the fast changing technology where information is so easy to access and communication is real time. But, do you know electronic communications originated with the telegraph. The telegraph was a simple electrical circuit that transmitted electrical impulses across country via wire. It had two signals, a dot and a dash. This formed a code called Morse code that could be interpreted as words. Eventually, the code would be translated into all languages and became state-of-the-art technology. Because of these, telephone was invented. Then many new innovative and inventions have evolved in communication such as computers, wireless telephone, cell phones and now, the internet. Communications is moving faster and faster. Our communications are becoming more complex and our handsets are become more powerful. Before we become complex, why don’t we discuss the benefits of electronic communication.

Electronic communication is not only beneficial in our daily life but also to the society as a whole. That includes industry, education, workplaces, transportation and home. For personal, work and home use I can confidently say e-communication is convenient economical and instantaneous. With our mobile phone, we can easily get in touch with anyone. Families living apart or companies with affairs around the country or abroad can easily communicate using internet phones such as Skype, Viber, Hang-out or WebEx which is not pricey. E-communication plays a very important role in transportation and security too, in metropolitan areas hailing a taxi isn’t a problem anymore using an application, e-hailing in your phone or computer. Airline and train industries have used e-communication for a long time to avoid train or airplane collision, as well as to report airplane crash or to seek assistance. Industries like the Texas Instrument produces silicon chips that are used in fiber wireless and optic communication technologies.  IBM, the world's largest information technology company produces hardware and software for a line of business servers, storage products, and custom-designed microchips. The presence of electronic communication in major industries has made it possible to have more spread out distribution of work team members have made it useful in sharing information and communicating on projects. The Internet, email, social media and virtual team "rooms" are common tools used for electronic workplace collaboration.

The rapid and constant pace of change in technology is creating both opportunities and challenges in education. Electronics allow students to make their own choices about what they will learn and how they will learn it, thus giving them motivation to learn. Students also enjoy the fact they often get immediate feedback from a computer, that they can connect what they're learning to everyday technology, and that technology can have more engaging. The use electronics in the classroom on a regular basis are able to master technology while they learn. Besides learning actual computer-related skills -- which will likely evolve before they enter adulthood or the workplace -- they also gain confidence around computers.

BOC employee

However, advancement of e-communication doesn’t mean we can do everything we wanted to do. There are certain etiquettes that we need to follow over the internet to protect us from any transgression over the internet. This is what we call “netiquette”. According to Pacio (2012), some of the netiquette that we have to observe are computer courtesy, use of emoticons, being brief online, avoid shouting, be attentive to language issues, think before posting, keep personal information private, obey copyrights law, lend a hand to internet newbie, and be watchful to cyber bullying. I found computer courtesy, think before posting and helping internet newbie quite interesting. In relation to computer courtesy and think before posting netiquette I came across these two news, one was the controversial Balikbayan Box Policy of Bureau of Customs. It was indeed a hot issue because it really hit the sensitive heart of the OFWs but what made them go

ballistic was the Facebook message posted on the wall of one of the Bureau of Customs employee. It certainly boiled their blood that they are ready to shoot. Another was about a nurse working in a hospital in Singapore who was fired and sentenced to four

nurse in Singapore 

months imprisonment not because of stealing or insubordination but because of the seditious remark he posted on his Facebook wall that condemned the Singaporeans. This means that no one can get away from the consequence of one’s action. It again reminds us that we should be responsible in our own doing, think before we post. And don’t hesitate to help those who are new to computers and internet. I had personal experience about it with a classmate last semester. Well I didn’t expect that a professional in the police force doesn’t have any idea how to operate a computer and worse surfing the internet. 

Of so many technological developments we have right now, I can’t think of another innovative technology that I could contribute. But I deem it is a necessity to improve the internet speed in the Philippines. According to Shahani (2015), a report on Asia Pacific done by Akamai shows the Philippines to has the third

lowest average connection speed in the region—2.8 Megabits per second (Mbps) for the first quarter of 2015—much lower than the

global average connection speed, which is 5 Mbps. Moreover, the

Philippines also ranked fourth in terms of lowest peak connection

state of the internet

speed, with 20.3 Mbps—far from the global average of 29.1 Mbps. Big internet service providers are making money from the subscribers who do not get what they actually paid for. Good thing, the government is doing something about it to help improve internet speed of the country. Hoping, we’ll have improved internet performance as soon as possible.

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References:

Pacio, R. D. (2012). Electronic Communication.  

Edwards, G. (2010). History of Electronic Communication. Project Management. Retrieved September 25, 2015 from http://www.brighthubpm.com/monitoring-projects/86450-history-of-electronic-communication/

Alvinology  (2015). Popular Filipino band comments on Edz Ello’s seditious remarks. Yahoo News. Retrieved September 25, 2015 from https://sg.news.yahoo.com/popular-filipino-band-comments-edz-105928061.html

Shahani, L. R. (2015). Why is our internet so slow? Philippine Star. Retrieved September 26, 2015 from http://www.brighthubpm.com/monitoring-projects/86450-history-of-electronic-communication/

Photo Credit:

Florendo, J. [BOC Employee]. Retrieved from https://disqus.com/by/jhunflorendo/

Alvinology.com. [Nurse in Singapore]. Retrieved https://sg.news.yahoo.com/popular-filipino-band-comments-edz-105928061.html

Shahani, L. R. [State of the Internet]. Retrieved http://www.philstar.com/opinion/2015/08/24/1491398/why-our-internet-so-slow

E-Com: The congruence of the course, Development Communication with my present activities

Let me start by giving a brief background of my undergraduate course and work.I'm actually a graduate of Information and Computer Science and been a full-time housewife since 2007. At present I am a freelance online English tutor to non-English speakers. And now, I'm studying Development Communication. So with my Bachelor's degree and work experience, I'm totally out of the way right? I'm sure everybody would say, "Absolutely!". Well, I strongly agree with you. When I enrolled in this course, I know that this is way too far from what I am doing right now. But, as I go on with the course I begin to understand that making a change or a development is not only for the people who had background on Development or Mass Communication or Journalism but for everyone who wanted to make a change. Though of course, an in depth understanding is a plus.

So, let's refresh our mind on what a Development Communication is. According to Quebral (2012), Development Communication is defined as the arts and science of human communication applied to the speedy transformation of a country and the mass of its people from poverty to a dynamic state of economic growth that makes possible greater social equality and a larger fulfillment of human potential. In other word, Development Communication is communicating with conscience. It is a communication not only to create awareness but also to cause an action aided by communication channels but not limited to television, radio, newspapers, brochures, leaflet, posters, photos, comics etc.

Therefore, what is the congruence of Development Communication to my present activities? I guess as a mother, Development Communication would give me the ability to communicate to my children pressing issues that teenagers are facing right now. If I can show them true pictures of teenage pregnancy, drug and alcohol addiction, smoking, bullying, peer pressures etc then it would give them awareness and if they are aware then they will find a way to avoid these issues. Therefore preventing a problem that could ruin their development in the future. Not only to my children but also to moms out there who has the same worries like me.

How about to my work? Many would us would think that having masters would help boosts our career in our workplace. As a freelance English teacher, I guess being able to communicate change to my students by helping them improve their English communicative skills. Even the ability to speak the universal language ~ English can make a difference to the lives of many. To most of my students both young and old, English is their stepping stone to success... towards a better life. The ability to understand and speak English would enable them get a good paying job that would somehow alleviate them from poverty and improve their lives. For some, English help them communicate better when travelling. Thus, it enables them to understand the culture and traditions of the country they visit, learn and gain friends. My businessmen students claim that English communicative skills is vital not only on expanding their business but also in dealing with foreign investors. The power to convince investors invest on their business in their country entails progress ~ creating more jobs and boosting the GDP of their country. Isn't that a development?

As an English teacher to speakers of other language, it enables me to meet people from around the world, learn their culture and tradition, listen to their plight and share my views. And that is all through communication. The knack to develop learning materials that would interest and catch the attention of my students is essential. A catchy and interesting communication material means creating an active and interesting conversation. Therefore, allowing the students to learn well. The skill on using the communication technology is also a must because in my line of work communication takes place online and because I am home most of the time I can only reach people through social networking sites (SNS) and Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP). And that, is how I can make a change... a development through communication.

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Reference

Quebral, N. C. (2012). Development Communication Primer. Retrieved from http://www.southbound.com.my/downloads/QuebralCruzPrimer2012.pdf

E-Com: Choosing to master in Development Communication

As we get older, the chance of getting a job is too slim. It’s way too far to be employable. In the world of employment, competition is and will be always be tough, experience isn’t an edge but continuous education I guess is one factor. In my opinion, continuing education can guarantee us more knowledge and skills thus giving us competence and confidence. So sad, I didn't realize that when I was younger. I thought getting a 4 year degree and having a job is enough, that staying home taking care of my family would be alright, I was wrong. There's still a part of me craving to be a part of something. To be part of an organization, to work with people personally.

Apart from being a housewife, I've been working full-time at home for 6 years, teaching English as a Second Language online. It was really very challenging on my part for the reason that I am not a teacher by profession. So in order to gain knowledge in teaching ESL and train my students effectively, I took up TESOL course (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Language). In this profession, I found out that teaching ESL is not merely about grammar or vocabulary, reading or writing. It is actually the ability to understand the need of your student to communicate himself in his chosen profession. I find this job really exciting because I have met people from different walks of life and different cultures; students, teachers, advertisers, marketing and bank managers, doctors, mothers, IT professionals, flight stewardess as well as hotel and restaurant employees. It is tough and tiring but at the end of the day, it truly feels rewarding. I was able to do my job as a housewife and don't just train my students but I am also learning.

Working as an English as Second Language teacher has motivated me to go back to school again. This time, in Graduate School. Actually, my first option was to take up Masters in English as a Second Language but my availability and workload would make it impossible for me to pursue it. I tried to find an alternative that suits my very limited time. Sure enough, I was directed to the Open University of Benguet State University. Looking at the courses offered, Development Communication attracted my attention. What came to mind right away was that this program might help me learn more about communication but I was worried that this program might require that the student must be a graduate of Mass Communication or Journalism baccalaureate degree. So, I did some research and I found article to read over the internet. I was surprise what I have found out, that communication is different from development communication. Though in order to achieve development, communication is a must. We all know that communication is the act of transferring information, opinions and ideas through verbal, written, gestures or signs. Development communication was created to help alleviate human condition from poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and social inequalities especially in the Third World Countries. I don't have much clear understanding and my knowledge on development communication are all based on what I have read, however I really agree with the concept of development communication maybe because like others, I also want to equip myself with good skill and be able to understand better how to establish development through communication not only to myself, my family but also to others specially to many housewife working full-time on their homes. And to get a good job outside the four corners of my home. These I guess are 2 reasons I decided to enroll and study Development Communication.

Having an idea about Development Communication made me remember the times I had to do something in order that the foreign company I worked with, would pay the new hires fairly and treat their employees politely and nicely. How I reached out some friends who are also housewives, offered them some skills I learned in order to help them get a home based job like me. Now that we are living in the world with fast changing technology especially in the field of communication, I believe that each of us can make a change for development. I hope that I would finish this program I have started, so help me God. 

If you're given the chance to study again; what will you study and why?

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References 

Diouf, J. (1994). Communication, a Key to human development. FAO Corporate Development Repository. Retrieved August 22, 2015, from http://www.fao.org/docrep/t1815e/t1815e01.htm

(2010). Development communication - an approach to democratic public information system. One Stop Center for Services and Information. Retrieved August 22, 2015, http://www.thusong.gov.za/documents/artic_pres/dev_comm.htm#what

Appreciating communication and culture

The second semester is almost over; I’d say it’s been overwhelming, mind blowing yet super inspiring term. It was really worth a try, learning was not limited to communication and culture only but Development Communication as a whole. The instructors were so motivating and the subjects were really interesting. I developed the culture of reading and writing. I met new friends by instigating conversation and I learned how to socially communicate with my instructors which actually I never did before. Through this subject, my long time plan of starting a blog has materialized. Words that were only inside my mind were now what are you reading. Homework were overflowing but I was really happy something changed my everyday routine. Thinking how to start my article was quite a challenge for amateur writer and once I started writing words came pouring down don't know which one to use first. We were tasked to create our own blogs; my very first one was to write about our own definition of culture and even elaborated it further by comparing it to other culture. And of course, culture was not created without communication. I also found out that the Philippines practice collectivist rather than individualist culture. I was more than motivated to dig deeper on my hometown’s culture to understand the collectivist culture better. Through series of reading, observation and

interviewing, I realized that communication is also the reason that our culture has been created, shaped, learned and preserved from one generation to another. Though culture is changing, its underlying foundation is still there. My understanding of culture has greatly increased which truly helped me communicate better. I then recognize that everything we do whether we say it or use gestures is a culture. And every individual or organization has its own unique culture and able to develop new cultures as time goes by. I was able to share developing culture in my workplace too. Communication played a very important role in my journey to my subject Communication and Culture. Why? As the culture of BSU-OU is once a month meeting, most inquires and discussion with classmates took place over the internet and through the Smartphone. Another blog we did was about the importance cultural competency which greatly enlightened me that communication and culture co-exist, without communication there’s no culture and without the knowledge of one’s culture there’s no communication. These two words must work hand in hand in order to establish a better communication. Communication also made it clear to me that it’s not just an exchange of information or conversation between two people or group of people.

Communication is also vital for social change and by understanding the culture of an individual or community that needs change, thus achieving development is possible.