Context Sensitivity Recognizing Opportunities & Constraints “An ability to read the context directly affects framing effectiveness.” (1996, p. 80) Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Context Defined How people think What people expect ~~~~~~~~ Being insensitive to context can be destructive. (1996, p. 98) Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Leaders can learn how to: Interpret and evaluate, or read, a context Cultivate a context Recognize the constraints of a context Impact the flow of communication Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Leaders must examine the frame for 5 things: Contextual Influences Permeability Consistency Reality Timing Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Contextual Influences Knowing the culture (values & beliefs) Cultural Norms – thoroughness, speed, valuing, risk-taking, appearance, conformity See DocNott’s notes on culture See AOF p. 83-86 Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Permeability Having the capacity to embrace new elements (a key part of examining the frame) AOF p. 97-90 Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Consistency Based on an internal compass or principles Allows for adaptation to current circumstances p. 90-92 (Example on p. 91) Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Reality Acquisition or development of appropriate mental models Are you making the situation fit your mental model? Are you developing a mental model based on the data of the situation? How do you handle mixed or inconclusive evidence if you have extremely strong beliefs? Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Timing Make timing appropriate through the assessment of the context for the use of: Proactive Framing Retroactive Framing Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Proactive Framing Moving deliberately to improve success, or to head off possible difficulties or failures Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham

Retroactive Framing Reflection and management of meaning after accurate perspective has been regained Dr. Joanne E. Nottingham