SYLLABUS SPEECH 1318: INSTRUCTOR: INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION Dr. EARNEST BURNETT, II OFFICE: B-230 PHONE: OFFICE HOURS: (281)-756-3613 e-mail (eburnett@alvincollege.edu) M/W 11-1pm; TTh 12:30-1pm; 2:30-4:30pm; Friday 10-11am COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course provides students with the opportunity to learn about the research and theories involved in Interpersonal Communication. This course also provides students with worthwhile options in a variety of interpersonal situations and discusses the theory, research, and evidence bearing on these choices. TEXT: Devito, J. A. (2009). The interpersonal communication book. Allyn & Bacon: NY. (This textbook is in the ACC bookstore, you must purchase this text) 1
SUPPLEMENTAL TEXTS: Adler, R.B., Rosenfeld, L.B., & Towne, N. (2009). Interplay: The process of interpersonal communication. Oxford: NY. (You do not have to purchase the text) METHODOLOGY: MEETING AND TIME LOCATIONS: LEARNING OUTCOMES: Web-based instruction, online discussion, online communication, online testing, and online submission of assignments. Course conducted through MYBLACKBOARD. Although we will not meet face to face, you are expected to log into this course every 1-2 days. The objective of this course is to make you cognizant of the Interpersonal Communication process mindfully. You for the most part, engage in this process mindlessly. This is one of the many reasons why you do not communicate as effectively as you should in your interpersonal interactions. By understanding the concepts involved in the Interpersonal Communication process, you can begin to alleviate some of your communication problems. When you do this, you can implement these theories and concepts of Interpersonal Communication strategically yet ETHICALLY into your everyday lives. 2
GRADING PROCEDURES: This class will offer a total of 100 points based upon percentages. Emphasis is placed upon the Mid-Term and Final exam. Exam I 20% (12/26/09) Mid-Term 25% (12/30/09) Exam III 20% (1/4/10) Final Exam 35% (1/7/10) Total: 100% *Extra credit is available at the Instructor s discretion. GRADING SCALE: 90-100=A 80-89 =B 70-79 =C 60-69 =D Below 60 =F ACADEMIC DISHONESTY: In a rugged individualistic society like ours, it s embedded into the culture to do whatever you can to succeed. Some even believe that the ends justify the means. However, morality is also a part our society and in this classroom it is very important and at this college. Cheating is (never) an option. It s a choice that you make and in this classroom if you are caught doing it, you will gravely suffer the consequences and punished to the degree parallel to the college as stated in the student handbook. Yes, it is an old saying but, in this class, honesty is the BEST policy! THERE ARE NO MAKE-UP EXAMS! Your missing an exam, has to be a legitimate one. (The burden of proof will rest upon you). However, you are allowed to take exams in advance. No special concessions will be made on your behalf. 3
Expectations Enrolling in an online class can be rewarding yet challenging. It takes discipline and focus. Life has a way of challenging us when we are seeking educational opportunities so when you are faced with that challenge, do not be afraid to come by my office and talk to me. I am here to help not to hinder your progression. However: 1. Students are expected to obtain a textbook and log into the course using MyBlackboard before the second day of class 2. Students are expected to allocate a minimum of 10 hours per week on textbook and handouts in order to prepare for the exams. 3. Students are expected to have an operable computer that can access the curse website. Any technical problems on the students side WILL NOT be an acceptable excuse for not completing the exam. However, students are not penalized if there are technical issues in MyBlackboard if the instructor is notified of such an issue from the MyBlackboard office. Technical Problems Any technical problems or issues with logging into MyBlackboard should be directed to Dena Faust. She can be contacted at dfaust@alvincollege.edu or 281-756-3728. Her office is in D-207. Office hours are Mon/Tues 7:30am-5:00 pm; Wed 7:30am- 1:30am, Thurs 7:30-5:00, Friday 7:30-4:00. 4
COURSE SCHEDULE *I RESERVE THE RIGHT TO MODIFY THE SCHEDULE, IF NECESSARY. Week One Week Two Week Three Week Four Week Five Week Six Week Seven Week Eight Importance of Interpersonal Communication (power point) Chapter 1 of Devito s text The Self Concept (power point) Chapter 3 of Devito s text Chapter 2 and 3 (Perception) Exam I. The Importance of Language in Interpersonal Communication. (This information is in the handout) Chapter 9, Devito, Interpersonal Relationships Chapter 6, Devito, Non-Verbal Communication Chapter 12, Devito, Conflict and Interpersonal Communication Chapter 13 Devito, Power and Interpersonal Communication 5
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