Course Textbook & Supplies

This course is a First Day Access course (FDA) meaning the e-textbook was included with your course fees. It is already available in Bb under the e-textbook tab. There is no need to purchase it unless you want a printed copy. See Bb for info.

Adler, R., Rodman, G., Du Pre’, A. (2020). Understanding Human Communication. (14th ed). Oxford Press. ISB#978-0-19-092569-7

• Will need computer access and strong internet connection.

Course Description

Introduction to Speech Communication explores the theories and practice of speech communication behavior to promote communication competence in interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations.  (Credit Hours: 3; Classroom Contact Hours per Week: 3)

Course Rationale

Developing communication skills can give you a competitive edge in your professional and academic career. Not only are communication skills highly valued in the workplace, communication courses taken at ACC transfer to all colleges and universities in Texas. Communication skills are essential to personal and professional success. Yet, for many people, communication skills are often some of the hardest skills to develop. Introduction to Speech Communication provides an overview of communication as a discipline. By taking this course, you will develop skills to confidently and competently communicate with individuals, groups, or audiences.

Instructional Methodology

The class is designed around textbook readings and provided lecture slides, individual assignments, virtual group meetings, discussion boards and a group project. Students are expected to contribute to all discussion boards and respond to one another with sincere thoughtful comments that address the assigned topic.

Course Assignments and Weight

1. Homework: Class discussion boards and individual assignments:  Individual assignments are those that you complete independently and submit for a grade. Class discussion boards require you to share your thoughts with your classmates and at times respond to two classmates as well. Specific directions for each discussion board are provided below. There might be smaller assignments along the way as well   _____ X .20 =_____

2. Online chapter quizzes via Blackboard are required for all chapters:  You may use your notes and textbook while taking the quizzes. You are only allowed two attempts for each quiz so use them wisely _____X .20 = _____

3. Interpersonal Skills Assessment (2 demonstrations- 10% each):  Respond to two interpersonal case studies using perception checking and assertive messaging. Students will submit video recordings of their responses.  All required skills taught in class and textbook.     ____   X .20 = _____

4. Small Group Problem Solving Assignment: Work in teams while applying the Reflective Thinking Sequence to solve a problem.  Individuals are given individual feedback on their ability to communicate within a team setting.     _____X .20 = _____

5. Informative speech*  Present a 4-6 minute formal speech using a visual aid to your class.

• Part I – speech outline                                                                                  _____X .05 = _____
• Part II – presentation                                                                        _____X .15 = _____

* The Informative speech must be presented in order to pass the class.  You may not skip the speech and still the pass the course, even if you have a “passing” numerical grade. 

Chapter 1 – Human Communication: What and Why

Chapter 2 – Communicating with Social Media

Chapter 3 – The Self, Perception, and Communication

Chapter 4 – Communication and Culture

Chapter 5 – Language & Communication Styles

Chapter 6 – Listening

Chapter 7 – Nonverbal Communication

Chapter 8 - Understanding Interpersonal Communication

Chapter 9 – Managing Conflict

Chapter 10 – Communicating for Career Success (Sections 10.3 & 10.4)

Chapter 11 – Leadership and Teamwork

Chapter 12  – Preparing and Presenting Your Speech

Chapter 13 – Organization & Support

Chapter 14 -  Using Visual Aids

Course Description

Introduction to Speech Communication explores the theories and practice of speech communication behavior to promote communication competence in interpersonal, small group, and public speaking situations.  (Credit Hours: 3; Classroom Contact Hours per Week: 3)

Course Rationale

Developing communication skills can give you a competitive edge in your professional and academic career. Not only are communication skills highly valued in the workplace, communication courses taken at ACC transfer to all colleges and universities in Texas. Communication skills are essential to personal and professional success. Yet, for many people, communication skills are often some of the hardest skills to develop. Introduction to Speech Communication provides an overview of communication as a discipline. By taking this course, you will develop skills to confidently and competently communicate with individuals, groups, or audiences.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Foundations of Human Communication
   1. Apply the techniques of communication competency in a variety of settings.
   2. Develop skills in selecting and using a variety of communication strategies and responses based on situational contexts, goals, and human needs.
   3. Integrate self-monitoring strategies to increase personal communication competence.
   4. Analyze the role of perception in communication and employ various perception-checking methods to enhance competency.
   5. Recognize the power of verbal and nonverbal messages and adapt messages effectively.
   6. Evaluate listening habits and practice effective listening skills.
   7. Identify the dimensions of cultural diversity and their influence on communication.
   8. Examine the influence of using communication technologies on human interaction.
2. Interpersonal Communication
   1. Identify, analyze, and apply effective interpersonal communication skills.
   2. Recognize personal conflict style and demonstrate effective conflict management.
3. Small Group Communication
   1. Engage in and evaluate the dynamics of small group communication.
4. Public Speaking
   1. Develop, research, organize and deliver an effective formal public speech.

General Education Outcomes

Communication Skills

Develop, interpret, and express ideas and information through written, oral and visual communication that is adapted to purpose, structure, audience, and medium.

Critical Thinking Skills

Gather, analyze, synthesize, evaluate, and apply information for the purposes of innovation, inquiry, and creative thinking.

Personal Responsibility

Identify and apply ethical principles and practices to decision-making by connecting choices, actions and consequences.

Social Responsibility

(Civic and Cultural Awareness)

Analyze differences and commonalities among peoples, ideas, aesthetic traditions, and cultural practices to include intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to engage effectively in regional, national, and global communities.

Teamwork

Consider different points of view to work collaboratively and effectively in pursuit of a shared purpose or goal.