Communication Courses
COM-100 Introduction to Communication Studies An overview of the study of communication, this team taught course highlights both interpersonal and mass communication as well as public speaking. COM-200 Communication Research Methods An introduction to the basics of research in the field of communication, students learn a variety of research methods including both qualitative and quantitative methods as well as gain hands-on experience in the research process. This course will better prepare students for upper-level communication courses by familiarizing them with the language and process of research done in the field. The course gives students the skills needed to successfully complete their own research for their senior thesis. COM-225 Public Speaking A basic introduction to communication, primarily through public speaking, that stresses organization and delivery of spoken messages. Units include informative speaking, special occasion speaking, the use of language in oral style, audience analysis, and the use of logic and critical thinking in persuasive communication. COM-230 Video Production An introductory study of in-the-field television production, the course concentrates on basic shooting and editing techniques with an emphasis on composition, storytelling and nonlinear editing. All cameras are miniDV digital camcorders; all editing is taught on state-of-the-art AVID systems. COM-260 Interpersonal Communication An introduction to relational communication. The student should increase her sensitivity to communication skills by questioning habits, traditions, and current ideas and behaviors related to personal perception and communication. Through lectures, discussion, activities, and exercises, students will attain the knowledge and skills to become more effective communicators. They will also increase their awareness of everyday communication behaviors. COM-290 Introduction to Mass Communication An introduction to the field of mass communication that deals with the examination of radio, newspapers, magazines, film, television and the internet. The course includes historical backgrounds of each division, career opportunities, current trends, and predictions. It is designed to enhance student appreciation of the various components of mass media. COM-299 Communication Research Project (1.00–3.00 cr.) In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will conduct an original research project that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and the mentor is required for registration. COM-300 Small Group Communication Theory and practice of effective communication in small groups, including stages of group development, role emergence, leadership functions, decision making strategies, conflict management, and the significance of power. COM-310 Introduction to Public Relations Students gain an understanding of the scope of public relations by examining many aspects of the field, including writing and types of campaigns. Students create a communication plan that reflects strategic thinking and incorporates core competencies as well as produce written materials that illustrate an understanding of basic public relations writing skills. COM-320 Media Law An introduction to the history and development of media law in the United States since the early 1900s. Readings and lectures include the First Amendment, libel law, copyright protection, different regulations regarding print and electronic media, regulation of obscene and erotic material, the Freedom of Information Act, the regulation of advertising and telecommunication regulation. Covered topics include, to some degree, the role of ethics and morality as they apply to current media practices such as industry mergers and censorship issues. COM-325 Oral Interpretation of Literature An approach to the study of language and literature that uses physical and vocal performance with analytical writing as the primary means of discovery. Students will develop skills in the analysis and interpretation of selected literary works while developing vocal poise and expressiveness. The process of literary communication will be explored through units on prose, poetry, Shakespearian drama, and literary theory. Principal assignments will be performances along with formal and informal writing assignments. A performance course and a writing intensive course. Prerequisites: ENG-200. COM-350 Business & Professional Communication The nature of communication theory and practice in business and professional settings. Development of individual, dyadic, group, and organizational communication proficiencies. Supervisory/subordinate and peer communication, active listening, group communication, and presentational speaking. Prerequisites: COM-225. COM-360 Writing for the Media The theory and practice of writing for print and broadcast media on an introductory level. Areas of study involve writing for newspapers, magazines, radio news, television news, documentaries, film, and public relations. The course is taught in a seminar-workshop environment. COM-370 Nonverbal Communication Theory and research in nonverbal communication, including environment, space, physical appearance, body movement, eyes and facial expressions, and social cues. Nonverbal communication in personal, workplace, and cultural settings. COM-375 Gender Communication Effects of gender on the interpersonal communication process. Explanations of gender differences, communication about women and men via language and media, and interpersonal communication. COM-380 Communication Ethics This course introduces students to some of the ethical issues that are involved in interpersonal, public, and mass communication. The course begins with a study of the major ethical philosophers including Aristotle, Kant, Buber, and Habermas. Specific issues and case studies emphasize First Amendment rights, censorship, libel, slander, defamation of character, media regulation, and what can and cannot be said in the public arena. Students engage in a review of ethical theories as they relate to communication and ethical problem solving. COM-390 Intercultural Communication This course offers students a survey of contemporary scholarship related to processes of intercultural communication. The course will consider the important role of contexts (social, cultural, historical) in intercultural interactions. We will examine the complex relationship between culture and communication from several conceptual perspectives, concentrating on three: social/psychological, interpretive, and critical. By applying these perspectives students will come to appreciate the complexities and tensions involved in intercultural interactions. This learning process should enhance self-reflection, flexibility and sensitivity in intercultural communication. Offered as CORE 403. COM-400 Special Topics in Communication Seminars will investigate a specific topic from a communication perspective, and address the various communication contexts that are the basis of current pedagogy in the field. These contexts include rhetorical criticism, mass communication, interpersonal communication, and organizational communication. Examples of specific topics include conflict management, persuasion, and mediated communication. May be taken on multiple occasions when topics vary. COM-410 Senior Thesis (2.00 cr.) A guided individual project combining research in some area of communication studies with significant practical application of communication skills (e.g. a major public address, performance, workshop, video, lecture, etc.). This project will be approved in advance and implemented under the supervision of the instructor. A detailed outline and annotated bibliography is required by midterm. COM-425 Media, Culture & Society A critical look at the role of contemporary mass media in our society. It examines the relationship of communication media and popular culture. Topics include media mergers, obscenity and indecency issues in television and radio, “reality” TV programming, current advertising and public relations issues, messaging and imaging in media, and changes in FCC regulations. COM-450 Relational Communication An advanced course focusing on the theories of interpersonal relationships by exploring the developmental, maintenance, and deterioration stages. Explores both verbal and nonverbal messages, listening, and conflict resolution. COM-495 Communication Theory An advanced course focusing on various contemporary theories of interpersonal communication. There will be an emphasis on the theoretical foundations of the study of interpersonal communication in a variety of contexts. COM-498 Honor’s Thesis An honors thesis involves a scholarly scientific project selected by the communication major in consultation with her advisor and subject to departmental approval, which will involve conducting a pilot study focusing on her area of specialization. Research, observation, writing and interpreting results will all be conducted by the student. In addition, the student is required to present her thesis orally in an appropriate setting to an audience. COM-499 Communication Research Project (1.00–3.00 cr.) In conjunction with a communication faculty mentor, the student will formulate and execute a research project at an advanced level of complexity that will culminate in a paper and presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration. Open to junior and senior majors and others by permission. Prerequisites: COM-410 or COM-495. COM-930 Community Internship Communication skills may be applied in a wide variety of contexts. Ongoing internships are available for both concentrations in public relations, the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, Exploris, Dispute Settlement Centers, N.C. Women’s Correctional Institute, N.C. State Government, Triangle Reading Service, Hopeline and local television and radio stations. |
