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A survey of the discipline of communication studies with emphasis on multiple epistemological, theoretical, and methodological issues relevant to the systematic inquiry and pursuit of knowledge about human communication.  This course explores the basic history, assumptions, principles, processes, variables, methods, and specializations of human communication as an academic field of study.

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1. Foundations – Definitions and Context
2. History of Communication Study
3. Verbal and Nonverbal Communication
4. Basic Communication Theory
5. Basic Communication Research Methods
6. Specializations May Include:
1. Rhetoric
2. Forensics
3. Argumentation
4. Persuasion
5. Public Communication
6. Mass Communication
7. Interpersonal Communication
8. Group Communication
9. Intercultural Communication
10. Gender Communication
11. Organizational Communication
12. Oral Interpretation/Performance Studies
13. Communication Ethics
14. Family Communication
15. Emerging Specializations
1. Health Communication
2. New Technologies
3. Computer Mediated Communication

At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Explain and apply the basic concepts of the field of communication.
2. Discuss the history of the study of human communication.
3. Critically discuss and write about human communication theories and events.
4. Compare and contrast the basic research methods for the evaluation of human communication phenomena.
5. Explain the contextual, cultural, and social foundations of human communication.
6. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the specializations comprising the communication discipline.
7. Demonstrate an understanding of ethical perspectives in communication.
8. Summarize and explain an expanded world perspective that demonstrates an appreciation of the diverse range of individuals, communities, and viewpoints.

Quizzes and examinations, projects, oral and written assignments, class participation, and other outside assignments.

Green, K. Fairchild, R. Knudsen, B. & D. Lease-Gubrud. Introduction to Communication. (Latest edition.) Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. (OER)

Paynton and Hahn. Introduction to Communication. (Latest edition.)  LibreTexts. (OER)

Griffin et al. A First Look at Communication Theory. (Latest edition.) McGraw-Hill.

Wood, J., Communication Mosaics: An Introduction to the Field of Communication. (Latest edition.) Cengage.