Communication Studies
Communication Studies
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches.
This course will introduce students to the field of Communication Studies. Communication theories and foundational principles of communication will help students recognize and use this complex, dynamic, and often misunderstood process. Students will explore the various contexts of communication such as interpersonal, intercultural, gender, and group communication.
This course provides training and practice in the theory and principles of effective group discussion techniques. Emphasis will be on the examination of group behavioral theory and the testing of that theory with practical applications. This course will address the theory, application, and evaluation of group communication processes, including problem solving, conflict management, decision making, and leadership.
This course introduces the principles and techniques of oral interpretation, analysis, and communication of literature. Students will apply the use of voice and body to convey meanings and nuances in literary works in all genres.
This course will examine and practice critical thinking—both inductive and deductive—necessary for structuring arguments, stating and supporting opinions, and clarifying ideas. The course will provide training in listening for analysis of the reasoning of other speakers and in identifying their evidence. Curricular and co-curricular debate will be the testing ground for the validity of reasoning.
This course provides an introduction to intercultural communication principles and processes. It leads to a greater appreciation of other cultures through increased awareness of, and sensitivity to, different cultural viewpoints. Topics include cultural characteristics such as language, verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, and technology across many different cultures. This course allows students to examine and improve their intercultural communication competence and also covers such topics such as ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation, and physical abilities. Students will gain an appreciation and comparison of communication among diverse groups within the larger context of American culture.
This course examines interpersonal communication theory and processes including verbal and nonverbal channels, the role of self-concept in communication, assertiveness, listening styles, and conflict management. It provides skills practice in handling personal and professional communication situations. Individual and small group activities will be used to demonstrate principles of interpersonal communication.
This course is a survey of mass communication and the interrelationships of media with society including history, structure, and trends in a digital age. Included are discussions of theories and effects, economics, technology, law and ethics, global media, media literacy, and social issues, including gender and cultural diversity. It offers students an overview of all phases of mass communication and communication technology in this information-conscious society, and the effects of media on themselves and others.
This course offers specialized study opportunities for students who wish to pursue projects not included in the regular curriculum. Students are accepted only by a written project proposal approved by the discipline prior to enrollment.
This course introduces argumentation theory, practice and the methods of critical inquiry and advocacy. Identifies fallacies in reasoning and language, testing evidence and evidence sources, advancing a reasoned position, and defending and refuting arguments. Emphasis will be placed on research, using evidence, and detecting fallacies. Practice debates on class-selected topics will take place throughout the course of the semester.
This upper division course will have an emphasis on oral and written communication in business and management settings. Focus will include analysis of interpersonal communication, multicultural communication, and conflict resolution in a business setting. Students will explore business communication methods with an emphasis on planning, organizing and preparing presentations, memorandum, and reports. Students will develop and demonstrate specific speaking and writing skills applicable to professional-type settings, including creating documents and oral presentations that are clear, concise, compelling, and correct. Special attention will be placed on using precise and persuasive language to achieve business goals while also addressing cultural, ethical and professional considerations.