Communication Arts - COMA 105

Course Description

This survey course is designed to introduce students to Communication as a field of study. Students will learn about theories and research that are fundamental to human communication. Topics of study will include identity, persuasion and influence and how these ideas affect contexts like interpersonal, intercultural, small group and organizational communication, as well as the media. Students will also learn how to apply communication concepts in a variety of settings.

Prerequisites

(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)

Course Competencies

Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• Articulate the value of studying human communication.
• Describe the characteristics of a communication theory.
• Explain the application of theory to the discipline of communication.
• Summarize key components of identity, persuasion and influence as they relate to the study of human communication.
• Differentiate qualitative, quantitative and rhetorical research methods.
• Compare key concepts of verbal and nonverbal communication.
• Apply major theoretical interpersonal and relational concepts to actual human communication experiences.
• Explain barriers that prevent effectiveness in each of the major communication contexts.
• Explain intercultural communication dynamics.
• Deliver an effective oral presentation as a member of a small group.
• Define fundamental models of organizational communication.
• Analyze the effects of media on human communication.

Course Schedule