Course Description
COMM 110 Public Speaking (3 units)
A practical and theoretical introduction to the principles of public speaking and a forum for developing public speaking skills. The course covers researching, analyzing, and presenting perspectives on critical issues as well as the organization, composition, presentation, and evaluation of informative and persuasive speeches. Critical thinking and listening skills are developed through speaker and audience analysis. Speeches are delivered in both extemporaneous and prepared modes.
COMM 127 Argumentation and Debate (3 units)
This course develops methods of critical inquiry and advocacy and provides foundational knowledge and practice of public speaking. 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; and executing presentations and evaluations of oral and written arguments. Course covers how, within a democratic society, to communicate ideas using informative and persuasive evidence through written and oral discourse. Adapting argumentation language sensitive to diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and accessibility.
COMM 130 Interpersonal Communication (3 units)
Introduction to verbal and nonverbal communication within personal and professional relationships. The course focuses on theoretical foundations and practical considerations of behaviors as well as the role interpersonal communication plays in the formation and maintenance of identity. Well-prepared faculty-supervised 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.