Course Description
Communication Theory and Practice (TCOM 3000) MWF 11:45-12:50 TBA In the past, this course has focused on quantitative vs. qualitative approaches to communication theory. However, in order to better suit the goals and needs of TCOM practitioners, we have altered the course content. We will survey theory related to workplace communication, evaluate case studies, and write critical reflections on applied theory. 4 hours, no prerequisites.
Instructor
Required Texts
Prof. David Bedsole dbbedsole@king.edu Phone: 4873 Office Hours: On Blackboard + by appointment
Dainton, M, & Zelley, E. (2011). Applying communication theory for professional life: a practical introduction. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications. Others as assigned.
Course Outcomes
• • • •
Demonstrate recollection and understanding of communication theory by participating in cooperative exams. Explore communication theory further by authoring short papers and delivering informal presentations. Critically apply communication theory by collaboratively authoring course wiki and discussing case studies. Develop a deep understanding of the relationship of theory to practice, and the difference between practitioner and professional.
TCOM Program Objectives •
•
Students will construct written messages (technical data, instructions, information) in conventional formats and genres with no errors in formatting, grammar, or punctuation. Students will employ techniques of competent oral communication in technical and professional situations.
Evaluation Methods
Grading Scale
20%: Two cooperative exams (see explanation on Bb) 20%: Two short papers with informal presentations 20%: Class participation (preparedness, contribution to discussion and review of case studies) 40%: Online participation (this consists almost entirely of contribution to the course wiki) A more specific rubric will be given for major assignments. But in general: A (90-100) indicates superior work and effort. In a work setting, you would likely be commended or promoted. B (89-80) indicates a high degree of work and effort. In a work setting, you might be commended. C (79-70) indicates meeting minimum expectations. In a work setting, your job would probably be safe. D (69-60) indicates a lack of minimal effort. In a work setting, you might be warned or reprimanded. F (below 60) indicates work and effort well below minimum. In a work setting, pack your bags; you would likely be terminated.
Community Practices
Late Work Policy Work submitted after the class period it is due will be docked one letter grade for each day late. Timeliness is critical, because late work delays class activities. Please note, also, that all work is to be submitted via Blackboard. There is a way to check and see if you have attached your work (I will demonstrate in class). If I open your assignment and there is nothing attached, it is late. It is your responsibility to ensure that it is attached at the time of submission.
Technology Policy In my experience, laptops in class are seldom used for note taking. This is a discussion-based class; we need to see your face. Please do not use your laptop in class. Please do not text or take phone calls in class. If you do so, I will count you absent.
Absence Policy You will be granted three absences, no questions asked. Use these like you would use sick days at work. Unless it is a major assignment due date, you will be allowed to make up the work. After that, your absences will be “unpaid�; your final average will be lowered 2 points for each unexcused absence. So, if you miss five classes and your final average is 98, it will drop to a 94. As you know, 7 absences mean automatic class failure. Three counts of tardiness count as an absence.
Participation Policy This is a discussion-based class, with two prime directives: 1) read the assignments before class, and 2) discuss them during class. Adherence to these two directives will cover a multitude of sins. Failure to adhere to these two directives will seriously hamstring your ability to do well in this class. Please do not think that you can pass this class by deciding not to purchase this textbook, read it, or discuss it during class. As you can see from the syllabus, class participation, in person and online, is a full 60% of your grade.
Assignment Explanations Detailed assignment explanations are posted on Blackboard.
Honor Code
Accommodation of Special Needs Changes & Schedule
On my honor, I pledge to abide by the King College policies described in the Student Handbook. I understand that students of King College are to be honest in words and actions, in particular, not to lie, cheat, plagiarize, or steal. I pledge to conduct myself in a manner based on Christian values and to require the same of fellow students. I understand that a violation of this Honor Code may result in my appearance before the Honor Council. *Academic Dishonesty and Academic Sanctions are addressed in detail in the King College Student Handbook. These sections are applicable to all King College courses and students. If you are a student with a disability and desire assistance or accommodation, please notify the instructor prior to the second class meeting. The instructor will notify the students in a timely manner of any changes to the syllabus. This syllabus will be available on Bb.
Date
Do Before Class
Do During Class
What is Due
Introduction to Communication Theory 1/17
Obtain textbook
Intro to class Explore Bb
1/19
Read Dainton 1-13
Discuss intro to communication theory
1/21
Read Dainton 15-32
Online class (asynchronous)
Online class participation (before following meeting)
1/24
Evaluate case studies 1 & 2
Discuss case studies 1&2
Case studies 1 & 2
Theory Development
Explaining Theories of Cognition and Intrapersonal Communication 1/26
Read Dainton 33-54
Online class (asynchronous)
1/28
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss theories of cognition
1/31
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss intrapersonal communication
2/2
Evaluated case study 3
Discuss case study 3
Online class participation (before following meeting)
Case study 3
Explaining Theories of Interpersonal Communication 2/4
Read Dainton 55-76
Online class (asynchronous)
Online class participation (before following meeting)
2/7
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss interpersonal communication
2/9
Evaluate case study 4
Discuss case study 4
Case study 4
Online class participation (before following meeting)
Explaining Theories of Group Communication 2/11
Read Dainton 77-97
Online class (asynchronous)
2/14
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss group communication
2/16
Evaluate case study 5
Discuss case study 5
Case study 5
Explaining Theories of Organizational Communication 2/18
Read Dainton 99-119
Online class (asynchronous)
2/21
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss organizational communication
2/23
Evaluate case study 6
Discuss case study 6
Online class participation (before following meeting)
Case study 6
Looking Back 2/25
No class
2/28
Review for midterm
3/2
Midterm
3/4
Activity TBA
Spring Break
Topic proposal for paper I due by today
Midterm
Explaining Theories of Persuasion 3/14
Read Dainton 121-141 Online class
(asynchronous)
Online class participation (before following meeting)
3/16
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss theories of persuasion
3/18
Evaluate case study 7
Discuss case study 7
Case study 7
3/21
Paper I and Presentations
Presentations
Paper I and Presentation
3/23
Paper I and Presentations
Presentations
Paper I and Presentation
Explaining Theories of Leadership 3/25
Read Dainton 143-160 Online class
(asynchronous)
3/28
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss theories of leadership
3/30
Evaluate case study 9
Discuss case study 8
Online class participation (before following meeting)
Case study 8
Explaining Theories of Mediated Communication 4/1
Read Dainton 161-180 Online class
(asynchronous)
Online class participation (before following meeting) Topic proposal for paper II due by today
4/4
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss mediated communication
4/6
Evaluate case study 9
Discuss case study 9
Case study 9
4/8
Paper II and Presentations
Presentations
Paper II and Presentation
4/11
Paper II and Presentations
Presentations
Paper II and Presentation
Explaining Theories of Culture 4/13
Class Activity TBA
4/15
Read Dainton 181-205 Online class
(asynchronous)
4/18
Bb readings as assigned
Online class participation (before following meeting)
Discuss theories of culture
What Should a Communicator Do? 4/20
Evaluate case study 10
Discuss case study 10
4/22
Read Dainton 207-222 Online class
(asynchronous)
4/25
Bb readings as assigned
Discuss what a communicator should do
4/27
Evaluate case study 11
Discuss case study 11
Case study 10 Online class participation (before following meeting)
Case study 11