Doing this involves effort from both the sender of the message and the receiver. And it's a process that can be fraught with error, with messages often misinterpreted by the recipient. When this isn't detected, it can cause tremendous confusion, wasted effort and missed opportunity.

In fact, communication is only successful when both the sender and the receiver understand the same information as a result of the communication.

By successfully getting your message across, you convey your thoughts and ideas effectively. When not successful, the thoughts and ideas that you send do not necessarily reflect your own, causing a communication breakdown and creating roadblocks that stand in the way of your goals – both personally and professionally.

There will be three major areas in which you will work this semester. First, you will read. You will read the textbook. You will read emails. You will read other people's work. You will read web sites. Second, you will write. You will write responses to discussions. You will write in groups. You will write two essays: mid-term & final. Finally, you will take quizzes (4). The quizzes are designed to help you to see where you still need work, and to let you know the progress you're making in familiarizing yourself with the important terms and concepts of the communication field. The class is demanding. However, if you're taking this course in an effort to enhance your abilities as a communications expert, the class can be fun. If you're not in this course to enhance your abilities as a communications expert, then . . . hummm. . . why are you here?

Course Outcomes

• To develop an analytical and critical eye towards the social and political concerns of the field of communications and its impact on our world today
• To develop a firm grasp of the history and development of the communication field
• To understand the basic laws and regulations governing the communication industry
• To understand and apply communication ethics in a variety of situations
• To better understand the basic concepts of communications theory
• To recognize communication climates
• To better recognize the differences in social and cultural communication communities
• To practice good verbal and non-verbal communication skills
• To become familiar with current communication technologies

Course Requirements

Attendance is required and necessary since this is a participation-oriented class. More than four absences are grounds for failure. There will be times in the semester when you really need the days off, so don't miss class without good reason.

If you know you are going to miss a class, let me know. You are responsible for finding out what you missed and what assignments are due for the next class. If you miss a class, FIRST, ask your classmates, then feel free to ask me. Missed assignments will not be excused because of absences. Athletes: any special arrangements for athletes must be made with the professor at least two weeks prior to the event.

Do not come late to class. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, for any reason, you will be marked as absent. Likewise for leaving class early. Also, three times tardy equals an absence. Late attendance and absences will affect your participation grade. If you miss more than four (two, TR) classes, you will not receive an "A" for your participation grade.

You are expected to be prepared for every meeting. This means completing all reading and writing assignments on time. Failure to do so will greatly affect your participation grade.