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Welcome to COMM 211 Bitmoji

Fundamentals of Human Communication (aka COMM 211). Buckle up and get ready for a fast-paced, but fun and informative semester! The goal is to get you comfortable with public speaking by getting you out of your comfort zone every once in a while. Read through the information below to get some basic information then head up ☝ to “Modules” in the menu to get started. At the risk of stating the obvious, once you’ve clicked “Modules,” click on “Introduction from the dropdown menu.

Important Information

  • Course dates: August 17-December 9
    • Final: December 11 @ 10:00
  • 3 credit course includes: discussions, mini-tests, papers, and speeches
    • One group speech
  • This is an online, asynchronous class
    • There is no official meeting time
    • Content delivered through this website

Description of the course: This course introduces students to an overview of appropriate and effective communication techniques in a variety of settings. The course emphasizes students’ ability to communicate messages to different audiences. Students demonstrate audience analysis, delivery speaking skills, writing and organizing a speech, and self-reflection on their communication techniques. While primarily performance based, students also critique memorable speeches and embody communication skills in a small group setting. You must obtain a C or higher to pass this class. If you earn a C- or below, you will have to retake the class.

Time expectation: This course was always intended to be online and asynchronous (meaning there is no official meeting time). This means that all the time you would normally spend in class meetings should be spent on the content for this class.

To be successful in this course, you should plan to spend 2.5 hours per week treated as “in-class” time which does not include reading the textbook or completing assignments.

I will send out reminders at the beginning of each week, but it is your responsibility to stay on track. Because the timing of this course is critical, it is important that you have all the following arrangements made before the start date for the course:

Technical Requirements

  • Internet access: Make certain that you have internet access adequate to view video content as well as to download and upload files.
  • Microsoft Office: You will need to have Microsoft Office installed on your computer (even if you have a Mac). If you need help, this is a link to the HelpDesk on the College website.
  • YouTube: You will need a YouTube account to upload your recorded speeches that you will ultimately submit to Blackboard. This link provides directions for uploading videos to YouTube.
  • Zoom: Your audience members can join via Zoom instead of in person, and you can use Zoom to record your speeches. We will use Zoom for the group presentations.

Required Text We will be using Practically Speaking (2nd edition) by Rothwell. There is a newer, more expensive version so make sure you get the 2nd edition. There are a variety of options as far as purchasing goes. Valorebooks.com or Chegg.com are always good options. You can rent this text as an eTextbook or rent a hardcopy for a faction of the regular price. It is also available through the school.  

Know before you start:

  • There is a lot of reading involved in online classes. Take the reading seriously. I will not post lecture videos. You will learn through the textbook and the content I post to Blackboard.
  • Despite being an online class, you will have a group project where you will need to meet your fellow classmates. You should not take this class if you cannot find time to work with others (although you will not be required to physically meet).
  • Take a few moments to read the tips from this link.

I am looking forward to our time together!

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