Maybe a public speaking class wasn’t your first choice this semester, and maybe you get a little anxious when it comes to speaking in front of people. That’s all normal. You’re not only going to get through this class, you might even dare I say enjoy it. We’ll work through the nerves and any other struggles you might face. So get excited! For now, just work through this first module.
Module Overview
The goals of this module are to introduce you to the structure of the course, form a community of learners and practice the use of a learning tool. When you complete this module you will be able to:
- Navigate the course platform.
- Explain the expectations for success in this course
- Introduce yourself to members of this learning community
Your learning in this module will be assessed by evaluation of the following:
- An introductory discussion board
- A syllabus mini-test
Your resources to complete these tasks are:
- Your course syllabus
- The course calendar
Meet Your Instructor
My name is Jessica Fabbricatore and I will be your instructor for this course. I have been teaching at WVWC since the spring of 2015. I have my BA in communication studies from Wesleyan and an MA in communication theory and research from WVU. Right now, I’m working on my dissertation at the University of Georgia. I will have my PhD in health and interpersonal communication by May (hopefully). Because I am not in WV, the best way to reach me is by email. We can also arrange a time to connect through Zoom if you want to talk through some particular aspect of the course. If I receive an email from you, you can expect a response within 24 hours unless the answer is on the syllabus or the course site. It may be sooner if received during online office hours.
- Email: fabbricatore_j@wvwc.edu
- Cell phone: (304) 613-6730
- Zoom Meeting ID: 843 794 2991
- Online office hours: Mondays 11:00-1:00 & Wednesdays 5:00-7:00 (via Zoom)
Over the semester, I’ll be working as a research assistant at UGA. More specifically, I will be using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) methods to explore vaping in young adults. The project is funded by the National Institutes of Health. If you’re interested, you can learn more about the project here. I will also be continuing research about how substance use is impacts families for my dissertation. When I am not prepping classes, reading, and doing research, I’ll probably be sleeping, BUT I do enjoy visiting the local parks with my partner, Steven, and my dog, Ollie.
Why I study communication– I never wanted to be a reporter or broadcaster. I have always been very interested in psychology, but specifically how relationships develop. I learned early in my college career that much of communication research is exactly that. I strive to understand the various complexities of how communication can help or hinder relationship development and maintenance, but also how communication can affect a person’s identity in general.
Syllabus
Click the download button to view and save the syllabus. It holds detailed information about how to contact me, policies, assignments, due dates, etc. I highly recommend writing due dates in a planner. I also highly recommend setting the same time each week aside to dedicate to this class so you do not get behind.
Use the syllabus to complete the syllabus mini-test (duh).
If you find something in the syllabus that is unclear or inconsistent, please email me.
Syllabus Mini-test
Follow this link to complete the syllabus mini-test. The mini-test should be completed by the second day of class at 11:59pm. The quiz will consist of multiple choice and short answer questions all referring to content from the syllabus and this introduction module. You will have 45 minutes to complete it, and 2 attempts to take it.
If you usually have testing accommodations, please email me with documentation as soon as possible.
Introduce Yourself!
Each week, we will have a discussion prompt. This week we have two (one for introductions and another for the week 1 content). This is our opportunity to start a conversation so that we can learn more about each other. Follow this link to post your first discussion!
In this introduction, tell us a little bit about yourself: your hometown, why you came to Wesleyan, and what you’re thinking about doing when you leave Wesleyan. Next, share two truths and one lie about your favorite artist (singer, rapper, band, etc.). We’ll guess which is the lie! To make your introduction, click on Create a Thread. The title should be your name (first and last as you are known).
The title should be your preferred name and pronouns. Make this entry as soon as possible, but no later than Tuesday, August 17th at 11:59 pm. Before the end of Wednesday, August 18th, respond to at least two (2) other students questioning them about something they mentioned in their introductions. Reply back to all your responses by the end of the day Thursday, August 19th.
To make your first post, click you will need to log in. If you don’t have a username already, register for one when prompted. Once you’re logged in, click “Introductions.” You will see that I’ve already posted an introduction. Instead of replying to mine, click “Add topic” where you can start your own thread.
