MANT 221 COMMUNICATION SKILLS 2011 COURSE OUTLINE 1st semester 18 points 0.1500 efts Course prerequisites MANT 111 or BSNS105, and MANT 112 or MANT 102 or any 108 points Course Focus This paper aims to provide students with a strong framework for the development of practical communication skills in organisation settings. One major aim of this paper is to stimulate you to think about what, why and how you communicate. Another is to develop a critical understanding of communication theory, process and techniques at organisational, managerial and personal levels. In this paper this is achieved by evaluating theories and experiential activities. The paper guides you through an intensive exploration of the field of business communication. Through the process you should become a more effective communicator in both formal and informal communication settings. Taking this paper involves attending two lecture workshops each week (each class lasts two hours), where you will participate in individual and teamwork. The value and enjoyment you experience while taking this paper depends on your participation. We all need to be able to communicate effectively. Employers are requiring graduates to be increasingly more skilled in their language abilities including reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. You must know how to interpret information and be able to communicate ideas both orally and in writing. This paper covers material that will develop your understanding of communication both conceptually and practically. Content & Objectives The paper covers verbal and non-verbal messages, business writing, speaking in business contexts (presentations, seminars, meetings, interviews and interviewing), conflict resolution, communication and technology in the work place, mass and group communication. By the end of the paper you should have the practical skills of being able to write a formal report and other types of business correspondence, give an effective presentation, work effectively in a team, chairing and participating in meetings, negotiate and discuss with active listening. The course complements all types of degrees because we all need to communicate in the world of work. It is structured as a balance of theory and practice. To guide students in an intensive exploration of the structure and function of human communication and in the process develop into effective communicators. To develop and hone the skills of critical thinking. To develop student s theory base and critical thinking. To provide students with the opportunity to develop and explore their own styles of communication. 1
DISCLAIMER While every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this document is accurate, the information is subject to change. Changes will be notified in class and/or tutorials. Students are encouraged to check notice boards, etc. for any changes. It is your responsibility to be informed. In this paper, Blackboard will be used as a primary mechanism to notify changes. It is your responsibility to check Blackboard regularly throughout the semester. Staff Contact Details Course co-ordinator: Virginia Cathro, Room 8.25 Commerce Building, Tel. 479-8052, Fax 479-8173 Email: virginia.cathro@otago.ac.nz Office hours are posted on blackboard or by arrangement (phone or email for an appointment). Student support and Information Course Blackboard will be used as a primarily as a message system and to possibly convey supplementary readings. In addition, information about the course is posted on the blue board (near the ladies toilet) on the 8 th floor of the Commerce Building. Some lecture notes will be posted but not necessarily all lecture notes depending on the class focus and layout. Blackboard access: https://blackboard.otago.ac.nz/webapps/login/ CLASS REPRESENTATIVES The class representative system is an avenue for encouraging communication and consultation between staff and students involved in a particular paper or course of study at the University of Otago. It provides students with a vehicle for communicating their views on matters associated with the teaching and delivery of their paper or course of study. It provides staff with the opportunity to communicate information to and gain constructive feedback from students. It contributes to the development of a sense of community within a Department/School/Faculty and it adds a further dimension to the range of support services that the University of Otago offers its students. The School of Business fully supports the class representative system. Volunteers to act as class representatives for this paper will be called early in the semester. The OUSA then invites all class representatives to a training session, conducted by OUSA, about what it means to be a class representative and some of the possible procedures for dealing with issues that arise. They also provide information on the services that OUSA offers and the role OUSA can play in solving problems that may occur. The OUSA also provides ongoing support to class representatives during the semester. School of Business staff will also meet during the semester with the class representatives for this paper to discuss general issues or matters they wish to have considered. Contact details for Class reps will be posted on Blackboard. 2
Anticipated workload model Hours Item Breakdown 48 Lecture workshops 2x 2 hours / week (excluding one class for midterm test) 52 Reading of 4 hours per week, for 137weeks textbook and related supporting material, e.g. online 0 Tutorials None 28 Assessment A Independent reading and research 16 hours, 12 hours writing, editing and proofing 20 Mid-term preparation Revision/review of lecture notes and previously read chapters 2 Mid-term During a regular class session examination 27 Exam preparation Revision / review of lecture notes and previously read chapters, plus reading, analysing, and preparing case for exam 3 Examination 180 Total As expected by standard for 18-point paper Grading Guidelines The following standard grading guidelines should guide you when you're deciding what marks to give for presentations in tutorials. It will be used by your lecturers and tutors when marking all parts of this paper. Grade % Meaning A+ 90-100 Rare, outstanding, flawless A 85-89 Demonstrates originality; beyond what was expected A- 80-84 Excellent B+ 75-79 Polished; very good B 70-74 Comprehensive, covers material expected; demonstrates good understanding B- 65-69 Competent work; good coverage but minor flaws C+ 60-64 Demonstrates adequate understanding of fundamentals C 55-59 Demonstrates adequate understanding of fundamentals but some gaps C- 50-54 Barely adequate D 40-49 Inadequate; indicates a lack of understanding E 0-39 Very poor The key distinction between an "A" and a "B" is that an "A" requires some originality. The key distinction between a "B" and a "C" is that a "B" shows both greater breadth and greater depth in terms of coverage. The key distinction between a "C" and a "D" is that it is clear that a fairly good understanding exists in a "C" piece of work, while a "D" indicates that understanding is inadequate or lacking entirely in at least some of the major aspects of the assignment. 3
DISHONEST PRACTICE AND PLAGIARISM STUDENTS SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT ALL SUBMITTED WORK IS THEIR OWN. Any student found responsible for dishonest practice (for example, copying, the use of unauthorised material in tests, etc) in relation to any piece of work submitted for assessment shall be subject to the University s dishonest practice regulations which may result in various penalties, including forfeiture of marks for the piece of work submitted, a zero grade for the paper or in extreme cases exclusion from the University. Plagiarism is a form of dishonest practice. Plagiarism is defined as the copying or paraphrasing another s work, whether intentionally or through failure to take proper care, and presenting it as one s own. (See the current University of Otago Calendar.) In practice, this means plagiarism includes any attempt in any piece of submitted work to present as one s own work, the work of another (whether of another student or published authority). Any student found responsible for plagiarism shall be subject to the university s dishonest practice regulations as outlined above. All assignments may be put through Safe Assign. This programme indicates what seems totally original and what may have been cut and pasted from: The internet Published works Other essays and assignments (from your class and worldwide). For further information, see http://www.otago.ac.nz/study/plagiarism/ RECORDING OF LECTURES The content and delivery of lectures in this paper is copyright. You may record the lectures for the purposes of your private study or research, but may not further distribute the recordings for any purpose, whether with or without charge. For full copyright information see www.otago.ac.nz/copyright. CLASSES Lecture Workshops This course is structured around attendance at two two-hour lecture workshops per week. The classes are called workshops to identify the difference between this type of class and other lecture formats. In the communications paper these lecture workshops are designed to be interactive and experiential. Students talk in class between themselves and directly to the workshop leader. Students attend class on Tuesday 10 am-11.50 and Thursday 2pm 3.50pm. Note: Punctuality is a courtesy. Problems or Concerns The teaching team meets regularly so be assured that your concerns and problems will be addressed if you make them known. Confidentiality is respected at all levels. In addressing a problem or concern please contact your tutor, class rep or myself. Please leave messages with full and clear contact details. 4
Extensions policy Deadlines are deadlines. Hefty penalties will be applied to late work. The penalty is 3 marks per day or part thereof. Extensions will only be given upon written application (and only from the course coordinator) for serious illness or bereavement (e.g. illness with supporting medical documentary evidence stating the nature and length of impairment, family emergency, provincial or national representative activities with documentary evidence). Computer problems do not normally constitute an exceptional circumstance unless it is an officially notified failure of university equipment. To discuss the possibility of an extension, approach the course coordinator, in person, or via email and or the telephone. If for some reason you cannot get in contact directly with Virginia you are encouraged to leave evidence by way of email and phone messages, or messages with reception to provide evidence of your efforts to address the situation. COURSE TEXT & RECOMMENDED READINGS The text recommended is Business and Administrative Communication by Kitty O. Locker, McGraw Hill Higher Education, 7 th edition or Kienzler and Locker 2007/2009 8 th or 9 th editions respectively. Each version is slightly different but all versions are at standard. The reason for allowing you some range is that the texts each retail at very different costs. The textbook may be supplemented with additional readings during the course. Supplementary readings are posted either on blackboard or given out in class as hard copy. Refer to book review article loaded into Blackboard. ASSESSMENT GENERAL POLICY Substitute projects are not available for missed assignments. With the exception of material submitted directly at class as a result of a lecture workshop, all internal assessments must be typed. Work that is not typed will not be accepted. To collect and submit work, go to the 8 th floor reception. The reception area is open from 8.30am until about 5pm. Please remember your Student ID when collecting work. Marking turnaround: My personal aim is to have assignments marked and available for collection within two weeks of submission. A notice will be placed at reception indicating the availability of assignments; announcements will also be made at class and on blackboard. Referencing guidelines: Please use the APA style. Plagiarism: Put simply, if you copy someone else s ideas and work without acknowledgement it is plagiarism. It is an issue that is taken very seriously at University. If you are unsure about this subject, we suggest that you raise the issue in class. The University regulations can be found at this site address: http:/www.otago.ac.nz/study/plagiarism.html Work submitted over the course will receive both formative and summative feedback. Dissemination of Grades: Internal assessment, class averages and distributions will be posted for each assessment by student ID and displayed on Blackboard 5
and the 8 th floor notice board opposite Room 8.25. At the end of semester, all internal assessment grades will be displayed by Student ID for the assessment pieces submitted. All students are requested to check these when posted on the 8 th floor notice board opposite Room 8.25 and or Blackboard. Any discrepancies should be reported to the course coordinator as soon as possible. INTERNAL ASSESSMENT: The assessment package comprises a 60% portion devoted to written assessments and a 40% final exam. Assessment relates to the activities of class, lecture material, textbook reading and personal study. More specific submission details and dates are detailed below. Assessment A Discuss the impact of communication technologies (social networking sites such as Facebook, cell phones and cell phone applications, video conferencing) on managerial practice in the workplace. Related readings: Textbook, class material & personal research Additional research is mandatory; Academic writing. Mark weighting: 20 marks or 20% Submission Internal assessment A Due: Thursday 21st April 2011 before 4pm to 8 th floor reception. Mid Term in Class Test Theme: I am now leaving University what do I do? What communication practices are expected and how are they delivered? Section 1 Section 2 Section 3 Section 4 Making a good impression? (10 marks) Related to material covered in classes 2, 3, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16 & 18 Refer Chapters 1-5, 13 & 16 of Textbook The CV and the letter Traditional understandings (10 marks) Related to material covered in classes 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 Refer chapters 11, 12, 16 of Textbook and appendices A & B The Process of Recruitment and Selection Interviews and conversations (10 marks) Related to material covered in classes 2, 3, 18, 17, 14 Refer chapters 13, 1, 2, 3 & 5 of Textbook Non-traditional understandings of CVs, letters and the Hurdles of a Tight Labour Market (10 marks) Related to material covered in classes 2, 3, 5, 10, Refer chapters 4, 16 of Textbook Related readings: Textbook, class material & personal research Additional research is mandatory; Academic writing. Mark weighting: 30 marks or 30% In-Class 19 th May 2011 2pm 3.50pm 6
Final Exam The final exam comprises essay style questions. The exam will be covered in greater depth closer to time. The final exam is worth 40 % of the course. To pass the paper you need to achieve a total score higher than 50%. 7
WORKLOAD CALENDAR - Brief Overview Lecture Workshop Tuesday 10am 11.50 1 st March 2011 Class 1: Opening Class Read contents page and get an overview of textbook. Readings will be posted in folder on Blackboard and noted in class slides. 8th March 2011 Class 3: Organisational Communication Read Chapters 1-4 15th March 2011 Class 5: Communication & Technology 22 nd March 2011 Class 7: Verbal Messages: Writing letters, memos, emails Read Chapters 7-10 29th Tuesday 2011 Class 9: Verbal Messages: Writing Slides/Visual materials Read Chapter 9 5 th April 2011 Class 11:Verbal Messages: Face2Face Public Speaking Reminder Submission Internal Assessment A Due 21 st May 2011 4pm Read Chapter 10 12 th April 2011 Class 13:Verbal Messages Face2Face: Public Speaking Read Chapter 10 19 th April 2011 Class 15: Verbal Messages: Face2Face Conversations 3rd May 2011 Class 17: Dragon s Den & Pitching 10 th May 2011 Class 19: Interviews and Interviewing (2) Read Chapter 13 17 th May 2011 Class 21: Verbal Message: Face2Face Meetings 24 th May 2011 Class 23: Verbal Messages Face2Face: Working in Teams 31 st May 2011 Class 25: The Complexity of Organisational Communication Lecture Workshop Thursday 2pm 3.50pm 3 rd March 2011 Class 2: Organisational Communication Read Chapters 1-4 10th March 2011 Class 4: Language & Words Read Chapters 14-16 and appendices A&B 17 th March 2011 Class 6: Verbal Messages: Writing letters, memos, emails Read Chapters 7-10 24th March 2011 Class 8:Verbal Messages: Writing reports Read Chapters 17-19 31 st May 2011 Class 10: Verbal Messages: Face2Face Listening & Telephones 7 th April 2011 Class 12:Verbal Messages: Face2Face Public Speaking Read Chapter 10 14 th April 2011 Class 14: Verbal Messages: Face2Face The Nonverbal component 21 st April 2011 Class 16: Dragon s Den Assessment A due today [Good Friday 22nd April 2011] MID-SEMESTER BREAK 5 th May 2011 Class 18: Verbal Messages: Face2Face Interviewing & Interviews 12 th May 2011 Class 20: Verbal Messages: Face2Face Meetings 19 th May 2011 Class 22: Mid-Term in Class Test 26 th May 2011 Class 24: Verbal Messages: Face2Face - Working in Teams 2nd June 2011 Class 26: Course review NOTE: Chapters indicated are for 9 th edition of recommended textbook. Please also check Blackboard for any additional material for each lecture. 8