Course Description
COMM 110 Public Speaking (3 units)
Provides a practical and theoretical introduction to the fundamental principles of public speaking through an audience-centered approach, and a forum for practicing public speaking skills. Students discover, develop, and criticize ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, presentation, and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. Critical thinking & listening skills are realized through speaker and audience analysis. Speeches are delivered in both impromptu (spontaneous) and extemporaneous (prepared) modes.
COMM 127 Argumentation and Debate (3 units)
Methods of critical inquiry and advocacy. Identifying fallacies in reasoning and language, testing evidence and evidence sources, advancing a reasoned position, and defending and refuting arguments. Includes researching and analyzing significant social issues, propositions, political issues, presentations, evaluations of oral and written arguments, and evidence through written and oral discourse.
COMM 130 Interpersonal Communication (3 units)
Introduction to various forms of interpersonal communication within relationships in personal and professional contexts, with an emphasis on both verbal and nonverbal communication. Focus on theoretical and practical considerations of behaviors which facilitate or block successful private discourse, and the role interpersonal communication plays in the formation and maintenance of identity. Class presentations are required.
COMM 140 Small Group Communication (3 units)
Explores current principles and theories of various types of group communication, examining group development, groups tasks and roles, group processes, and the role of collaboration in critical thinking. Students interact in a variety of group projects, exploring their role within groups, leadership, diversity in groups, problem solving, conflict management and decision making. Oral presentations are required.
COMM 150 Intercultural Communication (3 units)
Examines theory and knowledge of effective communication within and between cultures. Provides for the development of a more global communication perspective and greater appreciation of other cultures through increased awareness of, and sensitivity to different cultural viewpoints influenced by variables including language, verbal and nonverbal communication, and cultural values.
COMM 180 Introduction to Communication Studies (3 units)
A survey of the discipline of communication studies with emphasis on multiple epistemological, theoretical, and methodological issues relevant to the systematic inquiry and pursuit of knowledge about human communication. This course explores the basic history, assumptions, principles, processes, variables, methods, and specializations of human communication.
COMM 695 Independent Study (0.5- 3 units)
Designed for students who are interested in furthering their knowledge via self-paced, individualized instruction provided in selected areas or directed study to be arranged with instructor and approved by the division dean using the Independent Study Form. Varying modes of instruction can be used -- laboratory, research, skill development, etc. For each unit earned, students are required to devote three hours per week throughout the semester. Students may take only one Independent Study course within a given discipline.