An introduction to major theoretical perspectives that inform communication scholarship. As the foundational course for the major, emphasis is placed on understanding human communication as a symbolic process that creates, maintains, and alters personal, social, and cultural identities. Students critique research literature in the communication field.
Students practice and critique informative and persuasive presentations.
This course develops students' understanding of the major theoretical approaches to the study of persuasion as a particular type of social influence. Specific attention is given to the processes of interpersonal influence and the media s role in changing social attitudes. Factors influencing interpersonal communication such as language, perception, nonverbal behavior, power, status and gender roles are studied. CO 202 Group Communication Course designed to study the basic characteristics and consequences of small group communication processes in various contexts, including family, education, and work groups. Interaction analysis and team-building are stressed, as well as examining small groups in process.