Interpersonal Communication Research Paper
Comm G100: Interpersonal Communication
Call # 55823 / Section # 014
Fall 2012
Goldenwest College
Class Meets: Tues/Thurs 7:55-9:20am Location: TECH-101
Instructor: Kelly R. Janke Email: kjanke@gwc.cccd.edu
Requirements:
Text: Adler, R., Rosenfeld, L., & Proctor, R. (2012). Interplay: The process of interpersonal communication, Twelfth Edition. New York: Oxford University Press.
Scantrons: 3 Scantrons for exams & 5 #815-E scantron quizzstrips for quizzes
Course Description: Interpersonal Communication is designed to increase your understanding and implementation of effective communication behaviors and skills. Throughout the semester we will examine basic verbal and nonverbal elements affecting communication …show more content…
between individuals in families, peer groups, and work contexts. This course requires you to participate in activities designed to develop interpersonal communication skills and will actually improve the quality of your life if you keep an open mind and actively participate! Interpersonal communication introduces students to the complex interaction of social and psychological forces operating in human communication.
The course is designed with a dual approach consisting of both theory and application that allows students opportunities to critically evaluate the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and communication issues surrounding human interaction in various contexts. Theories will be considered based on relevance to empirical research and various applied communication contexts (e.g. industry, education, medical and legal practice, etc.). There is an important distinction between social skills/manners and the interpersonal communication skills you are expected to develop in this …show more content…
course.
Course Purposes: 1. This course seeks to increase student “relational sensitivity.” Only as students become more socially sensitive can they recognize the various conditions that help and/or hinder the process of interpersonal communication. 2. This course seeks to increase student “behavioral flexibility.” Only as students become more flexible in their behaviors can they select the appropriate behavioral responses to specific communication situations. 3. This course seeks to motivate students to demonstrate behaviors that facilitate competent communication and improve overall student and community life. Enhanced communication skills create better citizens of the world.
Competencies and Objectives: Students in this course will examine the dynamics of face-to-face encounters. A number of theories of communication will be examined that describe various aspects of the communication process. Many individuals believe that “communication” is so basic that it is taken for granted and not thought about seriously. Unfortunately, this attitude tends to result in such difficulties as misunderstandings, conflict, avoidance, and stereotyping. We will examine basic concepts, theories, and research findings relevant to initiating, developing, modifying, maintaining, and terminating relationships, with an eye to the role of communication in the process. Lecture, discussion, response papers, in-class and out-of-class observations, and occasional applied assignments will be used to increase student knowledge and behavioral competence in interpersonal communication. At the conclusion of the course it is expected that students will demonstrate knowledge and skills in several core areas. Specifically students should demonstrate an increased understanding of: * The options and alternatives for action in a wide variety of interpersonal situations. * Individual preferences and an increased appreciation for the differences of others. * The dialectical tensions that can arise as students use communication to satisfy personal conflicting needs. * How the process of perception affects communication behavior. * The ethical dimensions of interpersonal communication. * The importance of nonverbal communication in developing successful interpersonal interactions. * Defensive and supportive communication climates. * Competence and an ability to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of interpersonal strategies used in various interpersonal situations. * Why and how relationships develop and the role communication plays in determining the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships. * The competencies related to communicating with individuals from other cultures and co-cultures.
In addition, Comm G100 addresses the following expectations of a college student:
Writing: To communicate effectively using standard written English. (Students complete assigned written exercises designed for improved self-awareness of communication strengths and weaknesses.)
Reading: To understand, analyze, summarize, and interpret a variety of reading materials. (Class discussions and examinations cover assigned required reading.)
Integrated Learning: To think critically and make connections in learning across the disciplines. (Students research, evaluate, and organize in order to complete written assignments and to develop an effective oral presentation in the form of a Group Workshop.)
Creative and Critical Thinking: To elaborate on knowledge to create thoughts, processes, and/or products that are new to students. (Students are challenged to incorporate strategies in their written assignments and oral presentations.)
Ethics/Values: To demonstrate awareness of ethical considerations in making value choices. (Students discuss value choices, personal and social ethics as related to interpersonal communication.)
General Class Requirements:
You are expected to: * Be on time for all class meetings. * Interact productively in class discussions and small-group activities. * Be prepared for daily discussions and quizzes by reading all assigned material BEFORE you enter the classroom. * Successfully deliver an instructional group presentation (workshop). FAILURE TO DO THIS ASSIGNMENT WILL RESULT IN A FAILING GRADE IN THE COURSE. * Submit written assignments at the BEGINNING of the class period on the designated date.
Classroom Civility:
Certain basic standards of classroom civility should be adhered to, particularly in a communication course. Civility does not eliminate appropriate humor, enjoyment, or other features of a comfortable and pleasant classroom community. Classroom civility does, however, include the following:
1. Displaying respect for all members of the classroom community, both your instructor and fellow students. 2. Attentiveness to and participation in lectures, group activities, workshops, and other exercises. 3. Avoidance of unnecessary disruptions during class, such as private conversations, texting, social networking (e.g. facebook), and doing work for other classes. 4. Avoidance of racist, sexist, homophobic, ageist, or other negative language that may unnecessarily exclude members of our campus and classroom community.
*These features of classroom civility do not comprise an exhaustive list. Rather, they represent the minimal sort of behaviors that help to make the classroom a pleasant place for all concerned.
Course Policies:
Attendance: ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED. Readings, class discussions, group workshops, and in-class activities increase both your understanding of interpersonal communication theory and development of your interpersonal communication skills. Class attendance and participation are important in accomplishing the goals of this course. Each absence will result in a 3 point deduction from your final grade and every tardy will result in a 1.5 deduction from your grade, therefore 2 tardies have the point equivalence of 1 absence. If your absence is excused, you should bring a verifiable document for the absence to be excused. See the college catalog for what is considered an excused absence. If you are going to miss a class it is your responsibility to speak with the course instructor prior to the class session you will be missing. In order to receive credit for attendance you must attend the ENTIRE class period. Failure to do so may result in a tardy or absence for the given class period.
Participation: The quantity and quality of your contributions to class discussion and activities will be evaluated according to the following criteria: 1. Are you prepared for class discussions (e.g. completed reading, prepared for discussion questions)? 2. Are you able to relate your own experiences and observations to class concepts? 3. Do you respond to statements by other in an appropriate manner? 4. Do you move discussion along, not derail it? 5. Do you ask questions and/or paraphrase when needed or appropriate?
Make-ups: Students with verifiable excused absences can make up a version of exams or turn in an assignment at an arranged time. No make-ups will be given for unexcused absences unless the student makes arrangements before the date of the absence. No make-ups for assignments will be given for unexcused absences.
Withdrawal: Please see the course catalog for the College Withdrawal policy. The catalog provides information and deadlines for withdrawing from the course. Please note that students are responsible for withdrawing from courses they do not intend to complete. Check the school calendar for withdrawal dates and signature requirements. There may be fees for late withdrawals.
Special Circumstances: Students with learning or physical challenges that could affect your performance in this class should notify the instructor as soon as possible.
Honesty: Academic dishonesty encompasses both cheating and plagiarism. Cheating includes obtaining or attempting to obtain or aiding another to obtain academic credit for work by the use of any dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means. Plagiarism involves submitting the works of others as your own and includes improper source citation, no source citation, using materials prepared by another student, and using fictitious sources. The penalties for academic dishonesty range from receiving an "F" on the assignment or exam, to receiving an "F" in the course and may be reported to the university.
Course Assignments:
Readings
Regular reading assignments from the text are listed on the course schedule. Be sure to read the material before you come to class.
Story of My Life
Using your Storybook as a visual aid, you will tell the class your story.
Reflection
Portfolio/Journal
Each student will keep a weekly journal for the entire semester. These entries may ask students to examine their current behaviors, to try to solve a problem, or simply use personal examples to illustrate a theory being studied. Journal writing is fairly casual but should, however, be well focused on the concepts discussed in class. Journals will be collected three times during the semester (refer to course schedule below). Each Journal should be typed using12pt. Times New Roman font and have 1 inch margins.
Exams
There will be three exams throughout the semester. Exams will cover lecture material, in-class activities, and chapter readings. Make-up exams will not be granted, unless you can provide written documentation verifying that your absence falls within the school’s excused absence policy. Please bring the appropriate scantron sheet for each exam.
Quizzes
There will be 5 pop quizzes in this course. Pop quizzes will take place at the beginning and at the end of class.
Group Instructional Workshop
As a member of a small group, you will be assigned the task of presenting a chapter from the text. In the presentation you must: 1) provide an introduction to your chapter, 2) perform a particular interpersonal skill in front of the class, 3) provide a planned activity, and 4) ask discussion questions to conclude your presentation. The presentation should be planned to be 1 hour long (it should not be less than 50 minutes and no longer than 1 hr and 15 minutes).
Grade Calculation Story of My Life __________10pts.
Reflection Portfolio (12x5ea) __________60pts.
Group Instructional Workshop __________40 pts.
Quizzes (5x5ea) __________25pts
Exam I __________20pts. Exam II __________20pts.
Final Exam __________20 pts. Class participation __________5 pts. TOTAL 200 pts. __________/200 pts.
Tentative Course Schedule 8/28 Introduction to Course 8/30 Story of My Life/ Groups assigned 9/4 Chapter 1- Interpersonal Process 9/6 Chapter 1- Interpersonal Process 9/11 Chapter 2- Culture and Communication 9/13 Chapter 2- Culture and Communication 9/18 Chapter 3- Communication and the Self 9/20 Chapter 3- Communication and the Self 9/25 Chapter 4- Perceiving Others 9/27 Chapter 4- Perceiving Others 10/2 EXAM 1 Review Workshop 10/4 EXAM I (Chapters 1-4)/ Portfolios Due 10/9 Chapter 5- Language 10/11 Chapter 5- Language 10/16 Chapter 6- Nonverbal Communication (Group 1 Workshop) 10/18 Chapter 6- Nonverbal Communication 10/23 Chapter 7- Listening (Group 2 Workshop) 10/25 Chapter 7- Listening 10/30 Chapter 8 Emotions (Group 3 Workshop) 11/1 Chapter 8 Emotions 11/6 EXAM II Review Workshop 11/8 EXAM II (Chapters 5-8)/ Portfolios Due 11/13 Chapter 9- Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships (Group 4 Workshop) 11/15 Chapter 9- Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships 11/20 Chapter 10- Communication Climate (Group 5 Workshop) 11/22 CAMPUS CLOSED- Thanksgiving 11/27 Chapter 11- Managing Conflict (Group 6 Workshop) 11/29 Chapter 11- Managing Conflict 12/4 Chapter 12- Communication in Families and at Work 12/6 Chapter 12- Communication in Families and at Work
12/11 Final Exam Review Workshop 12/13 ******************FINAL EXAM (Chapters 9-12)******************
Call # 55823 / Section # 014
Fall 2012
Goldenwest College
Class Meets: Tues/Thurs 7:55-9:20am Location: TECH-101
Instructor: Kelly R. Janke Email: kjanke@gwc.cccd.edu
Requirements:
Text: Adler, R., Rosenfeld, L., & Proctor, R. (2012). Interplay: The process of interpersonal communication, Twelfth Edition. New York: Oxford University Press.
Scantrons: 3 Scantrons for exams & 5 #815-E scantron quizzstrips for quizzes
Course Description: Interpersonal Communication is designed to increase your understanding and implementation of effective communication behaviors and skills. Throughout the semester we will examine basic verbal and nonverbal elements affecting communication …show more content…
between individuals in families, peer groups, and work contexts. This course requires you to participate in activities designed to develop interpersonal communication skills and will actually improve the quality of your life if you keep an open mind and actively participate! Interpersonal communication introduces students to the complex interaction of social and psychological forces operating in human communication.
The course is designed with a dual approach consisting of both theory and application that allows students opportunities to critically evaluate the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and communication issues surrounding human interaction in various contexts. Theories will be considered based on relevance to empirical research and various applied communication contexts (e.g. industry, education, medical and legal practice, etc.). There is an important distinction between social skills/manners and the interpersonal communication skills you are expected to develop in this …show more content…
course.
Course Purposes: 1. This course seeks to increase student “relational sensitivity.” Only as students become more socially sensitive can they recognize the various conditions that help and/or hinder the process of interpersonal communication. 2. This course seeks to increase student “behavioral flexibility.” Only as students become more flexible in their behaviors can they select the appropriate behavioral responses to specific communication situations. 3. This course seeks to motivate students to demonstrate behaviors that facilitate competent communication and improve overall student and community life. Enhanced communication skills create better citizens of the world.
Competencies and Objectives: Students in this course will examine the dynamics of face-to-face encounters. A number of theories of communication will be examined that describe various aspects of the communication process. Many individuals believe that “communication” is so basic that it is taken for granted and not thought about seriously. Unfortunately, this attitude tends to result in such difficulties as misunderstandings, conflict, avoidance, and stereotyping. We will examine basic concepts, theories, and research findings relevant to initiating, developing, modifying, maintaining, and terminating relationships, with an eye to the role of communication in the process. Lecture, discussion, response papers, in-class and out-of-class observations, and occasional applied assignments will be used to increase student knowledge and behavioral competence in interpersonal communication. At the conclusion of the course it is expected that students will demonstrate knowledge and skills in several core areas. Specifically students should demonstrate an increased understanding of: * The options and alternatives for action in a wide variety of interpersonal situations. * Individual preferences and an increased appreciation for the differences of others. * The dialectical tensions that can arise as students use communication to satisfy personal conflicting needs. * How the process of perception affects communication behavior. * The ethical dimensions of interpersonal communication. * The importance of nonverbal communication in developing successful interpersonal interactions. * Defensive and supportive communication climates. * Competence and an ability to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of interpersonal strategies used in various interpersonal situations. * Why and how relationships develop and the role communication plays in determining the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships. * The competencies related to communicating with individuals from other cultures and co-cultures.
In addition, Comm G100 addresses the following expectations of a college student:
Writing: To communicate effectively using standard written English. (Students complete assigned written exercises designed for improved self-awareness of communication strengths and weaknesses.)
Reading: To understand, analyze, summarize, and interpret a variety of reading materials. (Class discussions and examinations cover assigned required reading.)
Integrated Learning: To think critically and make connections in learning across the disciplines. (Students research, evaluate, and organize in order to complete written assignments and to develop an effective oral presentation in the form of a Group Workshop.)
Creative and Critical Thinking: To elaborate on knowledge to create thoughts, processes, and/or products that are new to students. (Students are challenged to incorporate strategies in their written assignments and oral presentations.)
Ethics/Values: To demonstrate awareness of ethical considerations in making value choices. (Students discuss value choices, personal and social ethics as related to interpersonal communication.)
General Class Requirements:
You are expected to: * Be on time for all class meetings. * Interact productively in class discussions and small-group activities. * Be prepared for daily discussions and quizzes by reading all assigned material BEFORE you enter the classroom. * Successfully deliver an instructional group presentation (workshop). FAILURE TO DO THIS ASSIGNMENT WILL RESULT IN A FAILING GRADE IN THE COURSE. * Submit written assignments at the BEGINNING of the class period on the designated date.
Classroom Civility:
Certain basic standards of classroom civility should be adhered to, particularly in a communication course. Civility does not eliminate appropriate humor, enjoyment, or other features of a comfortable and pleasant classroom community. Classroom civility does, however, include the following:
1. Displaying respect for all members of the classroom community, both your instructor and fellow students. 2. Attentiveness to and participation in lectures, group activities, workshops, and other exercises. 3. Avoidance of unnecessary disruptions during class, such as private conversations, texting, social networking (e.g. facebook), and doing work for other classes. 4. Avoidance of racist, sexist, homophobic, ageist, or other negative language that may unnecessarily exclude members of our campus and classroom community.
*These features of classroom civility do not comprise an exhaustive list. Rather, they represent the minimal sort of behaviors that help to make the classroom a pleasant place for all concerned.
Course Policies:
Attendance: ATTENDANCE IS REQUIRED. Readings, class discussions, group workshops, and in-class activities increase both your understanding of interpersonal communication theory and development of your interpersonal communication skills. Class attendance and participation are important in accomplishing the goals of this course. Each absence will result in a 3 point deduction from your final grade and every tardy will result in a 1.5 deduction from your grade, therefore 2 tardies have the point equivalence of 1 absence. If your absence is excused, you should bring a verifiable document for the absence to be excused. See the college catalog for what is considered an excused absence. If you are going to miss a class it is your responsibility to speak with the course instructor prior to the class session you will be missing. In order to receive credit for attendance you must attend the ENTIRE class period. Failure to do so may result in a tardy or absence for the given class period.
Participation: The quantity and quality of your contributions to class discussion and activities will be evaluated according to the following criteria: 1. Are you prepared for class discussions (e.g. completed reading, prepared for discussion questions)? 2. Are you able to relate your own experiences and observations to class concepts? 3. Do you respond to statements by other in an appropriate manner? 4. Do you move discussion along, not derail it? 5. Do you ask questions and/or paraphrase when needed or appropriate?
Make-ups: Students with verifiable excused absences can make up a version of exams or turn in an assignment at an arranged time. No make-ups will be given for unexcused absences unless the student makes arrangements before the date of the absence. No make-ups for assignments will be given for unexcused absences.
Withdrawal: Please see the course catalog for the College Withdrawal policy. The catalog provides information and deadlines for withdrawing from the course. Please note that students are responsible for withdrawing from courses they do not intend to complete. Check the school calendar for withdrawal dates and signature requirements. There may be fees for late withdrawals.
Special Circumstances: Students with learning or physical challenges that could affect your performance in this class should notify the instructor as soon as possible.
Honesty: Academic dishonesty encompasses both cheating and plagiarism. Cheating includes obtaining or attempting to obtain or aiding another to obtain academic credit for work by the use of any dishonest, deceptive, or fraudulent means. Plagiarism involves submitting the works of others as your own and includes improper source citation, no source citation, using materials prepared by another student, and using fictitious sources. The penalties for academic dishonesty range from receiving an "F" on the assignment or exam, to receiving an "F" in the course and may be reported to the university.
Course Assignments:
Readings
Regular reading assignments from the text are listed on the course schedule. Be sure to read the material before you come to class.
Story of My Life
Using your Storybook as a visual aid, you will tell the class your story.
Reflection
Portfolio/Journal
Each student will keep a weekly journal for the entire semester. These entries may ask students to examine their current behaviors, to try to solve a problem, or simply use personal examples to illustrate a theory being studied. Journal writing is fairly casual but should, however, be well focused on the concepts discussed in class. Journals will be collected three times during the semester (refer to course schedule below). Each Journal should be typed using12pt. Times New Roman font and have 1 inch margins.
Exams
There will be three exams throughout the semester. Exams will cover lecture material, in-class activities, and chapter readings. Make-up exams will not be granted, unless you can provide written documentation verifying that your absence falls within the school’s excused absence policy. Please bring the appropriate scantron sheet for each exam.
Quizzes
There will be 5 pop quizzes in this course. Pop quizzes will take place at the beginning and at the end of class.
Group Instructional Workshop
As a member of a small group, you will be assigned the task of presenting a chapter from the text. In the presentation you must: 1) provide an introduction to your chapter, 2) perform a particular interpersonal skill in front of the class, 3) provide a planned activity, and 4) ask discussion questions to conclude your presentation. The presentation should be planned to be 1 hour long (it should not be less than 50 minutes and no longer than 1 hr and 15 minutes).
Grade Calculation Story of My Life __________10pts.
Reflection Portfolio (12x5ea) __________60pts.
Group Instructional Workshop __________40 pts.
Quizzes (5x5ea) __________25pts
Exam I __________20pts. Exam II __________20pts.
Final Exam __________20 pts. Class participation __________5 pts. TOTAL 200 pts. __________/200 pts.
Tentative Course Schedule 8/28 Introduction to Course 8/30 Story of My Life/ Groups assigned 9/4 Chapter 1- Interpersonal Process 9/6 Chapter 1- Interpersonal Process 9/11 Chapter 2- Culture and Communication 9/13 Chapter 2- Culture and Communication 9/18 Chapter 3- Communication and the Self 9/20 Chapter 3- Communication and the Self 9/25 Chapter 4- Perceiving Others 9/27 Chapter 4- Perceiving Others 10/2 EXAM 1 Review Workshop 10/4 EXAM I (Chapters 1-4)/ Portfolios Due 10/9 Chapter 5- Language 10/11 Chapter 5- Language 10/16 Chapter 6- Nonverbal Communication (Group 1 Workshop) 10/18 Chapter 6- Nonverbal Communication 10/23 Chapter 7- Listening (Group 2 Workshop) 10/25 Chapter 7- Listening 10/30 Chapter 8 Emotions (Group 3 Workshop) 11/1 Chapter 8 Emotions 11/6 EXAM II Review Workshop 11/8 EXAM II (Chapters 5-8)/ Portfolios Due 11/13 Chapter 9- Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships (Group 4 Workshop) 11/15 Chapter 9- Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships 11/20 Chapter 10- Communication Climate (Group 5 Workshop) 11/22 CAMPUS CLOSED- Thanksgiving 11/27 Chapter 11- Managing Conflict (Group 6 Workshop) 11/29 Chapter 11- Managing Conflict 12/4 Chapter 12- Communication in Families and at Work 12/6 Chapter 12- Communication in Families and at Work
12/11 Final Exam Review Workshop 12/13 ******************FINAL EXAM (Chapters 9-12)******************