Development of oral communication skills, including listening skills, through the process of research, analysis, organization, oral presentation and audience reception of messages in selected projects. Criteria for evaluating media content relative to influences and consequences of various programming formats including news, talk, entertainment, and advertising.
Course is designed for non-majors as well as majors.
An introduction to the professional study of communication, including detailed exploration of factors involved in the communication process, effects of media on the communication process, and the importance of the communication process in intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, organizational and intercultural contexts. This course is designed to enhance students' abilities in developing, delivering, and evaluating oral informative and persuasive presentations. In doing so, the focus of theoretical discussion and practical application will be on the use of audience analysis in adapting to presentational situations, source material in developing oral messages, effective organizational designs, oral rather than written language style, advanced presentational aids including media technology, enhanced vocal and physical presentational skills, and appropriate criteria for evaluation. A study of communication in relatively unstructured situations, such as in conversation, on the job, in peer groups, in relationships, and in the family. Students participate in activities designed to enhance communicative awareness and skills in interpersonal contexts.