HCOM 420       America Speaks       HCOM 100

CLASSES

SPCH 100:  Introduction to Human Communication

This course is designed to introduce students to human communication studies with an emphasis on interpersonal communication.  The course is designed to introduce basic concepts of human communication with the purpose of assisting students in dealing with their exchanges with others whose backgrounds may be very different from their own.   By focusing on source, message, channel, cultural, verbal, and nonverbal elements, the thrust of the course is on building interpersonal relationships.

SPCH 301:  Liberal Studies in Communication Processes

This course is designed to introduce students to human communication studies as a liberal art.  In short, it is designed to make liberal arts students "communication literate."  A major theme of the course is that communication is interdisciplinary and can be examined in many different disciplines.   Since most students are preparing for careers in elementary education, the primary focus of the class is on information that may make such teachers successful.  The course combines a review of major communication theories with an examination of communication in significant speeches that have shaped our century.

SPCH 300: Introduction to Research in Communication

A field defines itself by its research.  Thus, the study of the methods of inquiry in communication prepare students to understand, complete, and evaluate research of their own.  This course includes a survey of both qualitative and quantitative methods.  In addition to papers that explore problem questions, definitions of constructs, and reviews of literature, students will develop their writing abilities by directed work in style, composition, and grammar.

SPCH 102 Honors:  Public Speaking

Public speaking is a powerful force in society that can help people promote dissemination of knowledge and advance progress.  Indeed, the ability of citizens to exercise democratic responsibilities requires a willingness and an  ability to speak out on important issues.  This course is designed to teach students the basic skills of public communication.  Through a process of preparing five speeches of substance (a speech of introduction, an informative speech, an informative speech with visual aid, a persuasive speech, and a persuasive speech that advances a change in policy) students learn how to express themselves before a variety of audiences.  In addition, honors students are exposed to methods of impromptu presentations.

Honors Seminar:  Critical Thinking

The strength of rule by the governed depends on the ability of citizens to think clearly and soundly.  This seminar is designed to help honors students to develop their abilities in analyzing propositions, marshalling evidence, mapping out arguments, using logic, recognizing fallacies, building cases, and engaging the thoughtful refutation. To meet these goals students participate in classroom exercises, out of classroom activities in a variety of settings, and oral activities.  Students engage in seminar work as part of a year-long class in critical thinking and effective communication.

SPCH 332:  Processes of Social Influence

The role of persuasion in influences decisions is the central part of this course.  Covering source, message, audience, and situational variables, this course takes a practical view of the ways in which basic theories may enlighten one's selection of effective persuasion strategies.