OGL 481 Pro-Seminar I:

PCA-Symbolic Frame Worksheet

Worksheet Objectives:
1. Describe the symbolic frame
2. Apply the symbolic frame to your personal case situation

Complete the following making sure to support your ideas and cite from the textbook and other
course materials per APA guidelines. After the peer review, you have a chance to update this and
format for your Electronic Portfolio due in Module 6.

1) Briefly restate your situation from Module 1 and your role.

My role in this organization is an internal role as a junior enlisted member of the United
States Air Force.

2) Describe how the symbols of the organization influenced the situation.

Symbolism in the military is strong and frequent due to the historic background that have
shaped each branch. The Air Force stems from the Army and didn’t become it’s own
branch till after WWII. A lot of the symbolism today reflects this, from our uniforms to
our traditions.

In this case, a lot of the military structure and way of life stems from norms and rituals
dating back to the beginning. We salute officers, follows the lawfuls orders of those
appointed above us, and have an oath of duty to keep. It is because of this highly
structured system that the Air Force’s corporate style is able to thrive. Information and
interaction are able to follow based on rank due to our historical heritage paving the way.

3) Recommend how you would use organizational symbols for an alternative course of
action regarding your case.

4) Reflect on what you would do or not do differently given what you have learned
about this frame.

Given the nature of the military, I wouldn’t do anything differently. The military’s
mission, specially the Air Force’s, relies on highly discipline and ready individual’s to
succeed. I wouldn’t change much from how the frame is implemented.
The one change I would make is expand on the symbolism and heritage. Have it’s
member become more aligned with the identity of their branch. I believe this would build
upon the already high levels of organizational commitment currently present. The

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corporate structure is fine, it allows for communication to flow easily and positions to be
recognized and respected.

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Reference or References