COURSE DESCRIPTION

Emphasizes principles and practical application of effective interpersonal communication behaviors and rhetorical sensitivity within personal, professional and social relationships. Lecture 3 hours per week.

GENERAL COURSE PURPOSE

Provides students with practice communicating in everyday situations in a variety of social contexts.

ENTRY LEVEL COMPETENCIES

Fluency in Standard American English. Recommend proficiency in reading and writing at English 111 level.

COURSE OBJECTIVES/EDUCATIONAL OUTCOME

Students will understand and appreciate the complexity of interpersonal communication in common, everyday situations by demonstrating their own communication patterns and by showing tolerance and understanding of others.

MAJOR TOPICS TO BE COVERED

A. Perception and self-concept

B. Trust and self-disclosure

C. Empathy and understanding

D. Verbal and nonverbal messages

E. Communication roles and expectations

F. Defensive and supportive communication

G. Listening and responding

H. Assertiveness and feedback

I. Conflict management

J. Communication styles

K. Intercultural communication

L. Power in relationships

A. Small group exercises and role play

B. Analysis of relational communication as portrayed in film

C. Book reports on books dealing with interpersonal communication

D. Group presentations