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COMA-110
Fundamentals of Communication |
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Fundamentals of Communication COMA-110 / 3
credits / Prerequisites: none /
Assessment: 0-100 Course Description This communication
course explores the basic concepts of oral, written and electronic
communication. Students examine intra- and interpersonal, small group and
public modes of speaking and writing. Students will develop skills in sharing
information and reasoned argument, and examine the ethical responsibilities
of oral communicators. The course also examines various types of written
communication and how a skillful use of such communication can contribute to
positive practical outcomes. Particular attention will be given to the
distinctive ways in which African cultures have traditionally communicated
and the impact this has on contemporary life. Learning
Outcomes. Students will be able to: o
Describe and discuss the processes and principles of
communication o
Explain specific modes, mediums, styles, and methods of
communication o
Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively through
written, oral and technological mediums. o
Describe the nature of communication in specific contexts
(business, education, government, community). o
Describe differences in communication from culture to culture,
especially differences between African and non-African. o
Discuss the role of Christian belief as it relates to
communication and the ethical implications of various sorts of communication
styles and methods. Course Resources: o
ZACU Online
Course Companion o
University of Minnesota Libraries. Communication
in the Real World. Minneapolis, MN:
University of Minnesota Libraries, 2016. o
University of Minnesota Libraries. Business
Communication for Success. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Libraries, 2015. o
University of Minnesota Libraries. Understanding
Media and Culture. Minneapolis, MN:
University of Minnesota Libraries, 2016. o
Mersham, Gary, Chris Skinner, and Ronél
Rensburg. "Approaches to African communication
management and public relations: a case for theory‐building on the
continent." Journal of Public Affairs 11, no. 4 (2011): 195-207. Assessment:
Course Content:
I.
UNIT 1 – Foundations 1)
Introduction a)
Course Overview b)
Concepts, Terminology and Frameworks c)
Relevant Questions d)
Resources e)
Assignment 2)
Background a)
History b)
Processes c)
Principles 3)
Some Basics a)
Perception b)
Verbal c)
Non-Verbal
II.
UNIT 2 - Interpersonal & Group Relationships 1)
Relationships 2)
Listening 3)
Size Matters a)
Interpersonal b)
Small Groups c)
Medium Groups d)
Large Groups III.
UNIT 3 – Written / Spoken / Technological 1)
Written Communication a)
Different Forms for Different Purposes b)
Stages: Plan and
Prepare; Organize and Draft; Write and Refine; Review; Finalize c)
Present 2)
Oral Communication a)
Types and Forms of Oral Communication b)
Styles c)
Know Your Audience 3)
Technological Communication a)
Special Requirements b)
New Forms of Communication IV.
UNIT 4 – Communication and Context 1)
Context Matters a)
Business b)
Education c)
Government d)
Community 2)
Culture Matters a)
Local and Regional Culture b)
National and Ethnic Culture c)
Cross-Cultural and International Communication 3)
Ideology Matters a)
Worldview Influences Communication b)
The Bible and Communication 4)
Christian Communication |