COMM 105 Assignment 2 Guide: Putting Values into Action with Ethics and Goals

Introduction: Why Values Matter in a World of AI and Viral Trends

In June 2026, as generative AI tools like ChatGPT-5 and viral apps like BeReal and Threads continue to shape how we communicate and make decisions, the need for a strong personal value system has never been greater. For students in COMM 105: Values, Ethics, and Community, Assignment 2 challenges you to put your values into action through a structured plan. This tutorial provides original, non-AI-generated guidance to help you complete each component of the assignment while avoiding plagiarism and academic integrity pitfalls. Whether you're mapping values onto Schwartz's circumplex or writing a personal ethics statement, these insights will help you create a meaningful, accountable representation of your values.

Understanding the Assignment's Core Components

COMM 105 Assignment 2 consists of seven parts: a cover page, a values system assessment (schematic and written analysis), a goal hierarchy (schematic and written analysis), a habit change plan, a personal ethics statement, and references. Each section builds on the previous one, forming a cohesive plan for a values-driven life. The key is to be honest, reflective, and specific, using your own experiences rather than generic examples.

Values System Assessment: Mapping Your Core Values

Begin by revisiting the core values you identified in Assignment 1. Schwartz's circumplex model organizes values into ten categories: self-direction, stimulation, hedonism, achievement, power, security, conformity, tradition, benevolence, and universalism. For example, if you value 'innovation' (a form of self-direction) and 'community service' (benevolence), you might place them on opposite sides of the circumplex, indicating potential tension. In your schematic, overlay your values onto the template provided in Canvas. Below the model, copy your definitions from Assignment 1. If you revise any values, add a sentence explaining why—for instance, 'I replaced 'wealth' with 'financial independence' because it better reflects my long-term goals.'

Written Analysis: Consistency and Tension

In your 300-word analysis, assess how consistent your values are. For example, if you value both 'adventure' (stimulation) and 'stability' (security), you might experience tension when choosing between a risky startup job and a safe corporate role. Describe a specific hypothetical scenario: 'Imagine I'm offered a promotion that requires relocating to a new city, conflicting with my value of 'family closeness' (tradition).' Use course concepts like value conflict and self-regulation to explain how you would navigate such tensions. Avoid generic statements; tie everything back to your own values.

Goal Hierarchy: Structuring Your Aspirations

Your goal hierarchy should have three high-level SMART goals, four to five mid-level goals, and five to seven low-level goals. For instance, a high-level goal could be 'Launch a sustainable fashion brand within five years' (achievement, self-direction). Mid-level goals might include 'Complete a business plan by December 2026' and 'Secure $10,000 in seed funding by June 2027.' Low-level goals could be 'Research eco-friendly materials for two hours every Saturday' or 'Attend three networking events per month.' Use landscape orientation for your diagram and indicate cross-linkages, such as how 'Research materials' supports both 'Business plan' and 'Funding.'

Written Rationale: Why Your Hierarchy Works

In your 300-word rationale, explain how your hierarchy increases the likelihood of achieving high-level goals. Reference self-regulation concepts like goal setting theory (Locke & Latham) or the habit cycle. For example, 'Breaking down 'Launch a brand' into weekly research habits leverages the specificity principle, making the goal less overwhelming.' If you use external research, cite it properly (e.g., 'Latham & Locke, 2002'). Show how your sub-goals create a clear path, with each lower-level goal serving as a stepping stone.

Habit Change Plan: Using the Habit Cycle

List three habits that support your goals. For each, identify the cue, routine, and reward. For example, to support your goal of 'Secure funding,' a habit could be 'Review financial statements every Monday at 9 AM' (cue: Monday morning alarm; routine: open spreadsheet and analyze; reward: check off a task and feel productive). Another habit: 'Send one follow-up email after every networking event' (cue: end of event; routine: draft email; reward: sense of progress). Ensure your plan demonstrates understanding of the habit cycle as discussed in class—cue triggers routine, routine leads to reward, which reinforces the habit. Keep it under 400 words.

Personal Ethics Statement: Committing to Change

Your 450-word ethics statement should commit to making a difference at UBC Sauder. Draw from your values and goals. For instance, 'I commit to using my privilege to mentor first-generation students, aligning with my value of 'social justice' (universalism).' Be specific: 'I will volunteer at the Sauder Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion office for at least two hours per week.' Connect to current trends—perhaps mention how AI ethics or data privacy relate to your field. Avoid vague promises; instead, outline concrete actions and accountability measures, like 'I will review this statement every semester with my academic advisor.'

Academic Integrity and AI Use

Remember: AI tools like ChatGPT are strictly prohibited for this assignment. UBC's policies treat AI-generated content as cheating. To prove originality, keep drafts and use track changes in Word or version history in Google Docs. If you're unsure whether a source is acceptable, ask your TA. Plagiarism includes copying from classmates or online samples, so always write in your own voice.

Final Tips for Success

Start early: Draft each section separately and revise for coherence.
Use specific examples: Instead of 'I value honesty,' say 'I value honesty because my parents modeled it during a family business dispute.'
Follow formatting: Convert to PDF, name file as Last5NumbersOfStudent#-Sec#-AssignmentName.pdf, and combine all pages into one file.
Proofread: Read aloud to catch errors and ensure your tone is professional yet personal.

By following this guide, you'll create an assignment that reflects your unique values and sets a foundation for ethical decision-making in your career and community.