Description:

This course focuses on the principles of effective speech communication in small group and one-to-one relationships. Theory and practice of interpersonal communication are studied and applied to a variety of life situations. The course focuses on perception, self-concept, listening, conflict, language, nonverbal communication and culture as they relate to interpersonal relationships. 3 hrs./wk. This course may be offered as a Learning Communities (LCOM) section, see current credit schedule for LCOM details.

Associated Costs: These are additional (out-of-pocket) expense considerations that students should expect in addition to the course tuition, fees, and textbooks. $5 to $10.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Prerequisites: NONE

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course the student should be able to:

1. Identify the fundamental elements of the communication process.
2. Demonstrate how a healthy self-concept improves communication.
3. Explain how perception affects communication.
4. Demonstrate effective listening habits and skills.
5. Use the English language effectively to reflect the intended message.
6. Interpret and employ nonverbal cues to optimize communication.
7. Identify and apply strategies to assure the maximum health of interpersonal relationships.
8. Manage relational conflict.
9. Apply effective communication skills in a variety of contexts.

Content Outline & Competencies:

  I. Fundamental Elements of the Communication Process  
     A. Identify the elements of the communication process.
     B. Explain the relevance of communication competence in everyday
life.

 II. Self-concept in Communication
     A. Define the concepts:  self concept and self esteem.
     B. Describe the meaning of self-fulfilling prophecy.
     C. Evaluate student’s self-concepts and how self-concept has
influenced their   communication.
     D. Identify ways an individual can improve his/her self-concept.

III. Perception in Communication 
     A.	Identify the steps in the Perceptual process.
     B. Explain what influences perception.
     C. Identify methods to enhance one’s ability to perceive.

IV. Listening Habits and Skills
    A. Explain the types of listening.
    B. Describe the process of listening.
    C. Identify the importance of listening.
    D. Describe the barriers to effective listening.
    E. Demonstrate methods to improve listening skills.

V. Effective Use of the English Language for Communication
   A. Explain the difference between words and meaning.
   B. Describe the connection between language and culture
   C. Identify language barriers.
   D. Demonstrate methods to improve language skills.

VI. Nonverbal Cues
    A. Identify the types of nonverbal communication.
    B. Explain research findings for interpreting nonverbal communication
    C. Describe ways to improve interpreting nonverbal communication.
     
VII. Interpersonal Relationship 
     A. Explain the stages of relational development.
     B. Explain why relationships are formed.
     C. Describe the difference in relational and content messages
     D. Explain the need for self-disclosure in relationships.
     E. List guidelines for effective self-disclosure.
     F. Identify significant relationship theories
     G. Identify effective ways in which to improve interpersonal
relationships.
 
VIII. Relational Conflict
      A. Explain areas for creating positive communication climates.
      B. Identify areas of defensive and supportive communication.
      C. Define interpersonal conflict.
      D. Explain conflict resolution styles.
      E. Identify strategies to improve conflict resolution skills.

   IX. Effective Communication Skills in a Variety of Contexts
       A. Explain areas for creating positive communication climates.
       B. Identify areas of defensive and supportive communication.
       C. Define interpersonal conflict.
       D. Explain conflict resolution styles.
       E. Identify strategies to improve conflict resolution skills.
    
IX.  Culture and Communication
     A. Define the characteristics of communication culture.
     B. Identify cultural barriers to communication.
     C. Explain cultural values and norms.
     D. Describe ways to improve intercultural competence.

  X. Effective Communication Skills in a Variety of Contexts
     A. Explain the functions of communication in family, friend and work
environments.
     B. Identify ways to improve communication competence in family,
friend and work environments.
     C.Explain the importance of mediated communication.

      

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

The following areas of evaluation are required in ALL Interpersonal
Communication classes. A minimum and a maximum percent in each area is
indicated; instructors should remain within these amounts. 

Tests:  (20% to 35% of grade)  Testing may include quizzes, chapter tests,
mid-term and final examinations.

Written Work:  (15% to 30% of grade)  Written work may include (but is not
limited to) worksheets, daily exercises, reaction papers, and journals.

Participation/Discussion:  (15% to 35% of grade)  Participation/Discussion
may include activities done in dyads, triads, small groups and class
discussion or oral presentations. These activities may be evaluated
through peer evaluation, self-evaluation and instructor evaluation.  

Major Project:  (15% to 25% of grade)  The Term Project may be a single
large project or a series of smaller works.  The project must be in
written form and  may be presented orally. 
  
Grading Criteria:
   90 - 100%   A
   80 -  89%   B
   70 -  79%   C
   60 -  69%   D
    0 -  59%   F     

Caveats: NONE

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.