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Communication

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.A.-T. in Communication Studies
A.A. in Communication
Applied Communication Skills Certificate
Professional and Workplace Communication Certificate

Dean Patti Leonard
Department Chair Kimberly Church
Phone (916) 558-2364
Email churchk@scc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Communication Studies

The Communication Department offers a variety of courses designed to meet students’ needs for graduation, transfer, and personal and professional development. Students earning the Associate of Arts degree in Communication will be able to understand and apply human communication concepts relating to presentational speaking, critical thinking, group and interpersonal relationship development, and professional growth.

Transfer: Courses offered by the Communication Department meet a wide range of lower division transfer requirements for CSU and UC colleges. The department offers many courses designed to prepare students for transfer to a variety of disciplines including Business, Communication Studies, Criminal Justice, Education, Liberal Arts, Pre-Law, Mass Media, Management, Psychology, Sociology, and Social Work.

Forensics: The Los Rios Forensics team helps students improve their critical thinking and oral presentation skills. The Forensics team provides a high level of intercollegiate competition through the Forensics Laboratory course. Students who participate in this award-winning team compete in debate, public speaking, oral interpretation of literature and drama, impromptu speaking, and reader’s theater. This program enhances the college experience and polishes the skills that employers actively request.

The Associate in Science in Communication Studies for Transfer provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements of the California State University for transfer. Students with this degree will transfer with junior standing to the California State University system.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) student completion requirements (as stated in SB1440 law):
(1) Completion of a minimum of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
(A) The Intersegmental GE Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University GE-Breadth Requirements (CSU GE-Breadth).
(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students must earn a "C" or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2023

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking (3)	3
or COMM 481	Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6¹
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
Choose only courses not used from the previous list.
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
or ENGWR 384	Mass Media and Society (3)
or JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 374	Forensics Laboratory (1 - 3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
Choose any course not used from the previous lists.
COMM 303	Mediated Oral Communication (3)
COMM 305	Oral Interpretation (3)
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
COMM 316	Advanced Argumentation and Critical Thinking (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 335	Conflict Management (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
or ENGWR 384	Mass Media and Society (3)
or JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
COMM 374	Forensics Laboratory (1 - 3)
Total Units:		18

¹Each course can only be used to satisfy one of the three areas.

The Associate in Arts in Communication Studies for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate an understanding of classical and contemporary human communication theories and their intra- and interdisciplinary natures.
critically analyze a wide array of evidence and reasoning to identify and provide appropriate and credible support for written and oral communication.
identify and demonstrate effective and appropriate written and oral communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal, in a variety of communication contexts and with diverse populations.
identify and demonstrate ethical communication across a variety of contexts.
perform as an active listener and provide appropriate feedback.

Career Information

The number one skill employers seek is effective communication. Courses in communication enhance understanding and skills for transfer preparation, professional development, and personal growth. The degree and program enhances opportunities for employment and promotion in fields including education, law enforcement, law, health, management, organizational development, psychology, public service, sales, training, entertainment, and social services.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Communication

Catalog Date: August 1, 2023

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking (3)	3
or COMM 481	Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6¹
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
A minimum of 6 units from the following:		6
Choose only courses not used from the previous list.
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
or ENGWR 384	Mass Media and Society (3)
or JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 374	Forensics Laboratory (1 - 3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
Choose any course not used from the previous lists.
COMM 303	Mediated Oral Communication (3)
COMM 305	Oral Interpretation (3)
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
COMM 316	Advanced Argumentation and Critical Thinking (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 335	Conflict Management (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
or ENGWR 384	Mass Media and Society (3)
or JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
COMM 374	Forensics Laboratory (1 - 3)
Total Units:		18

¹Each course can only be used to satisfy one of the three areas.

The Communication Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See SCC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate an understanding of classical and contemporary human communication theories and their intra- and interdisciplinary natures.
critically analyze a wide array of evidence and reasoning to identify and provide appropriate and credible support for written and oral communication.
identify and demonstrate effective and appropriate written and oral communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal, in a variety of communication contexts and with diverse populations.
identify and demonstrate ethical communication across a variety of contexts.
perform as an active listener and provide appropriate feedback.

Career Information

Certificates of Achievement

Applied Communication Skills Certificate

The Certificate of Achievement in Applied Communication Skills serves to recognize students' general development of communication skills. This certificate provides meaningful and marketable skills designed to further a student's personal, academic, and professional growth. The importance of interpersonal and intercultural communication, small group and team skills, and public speaking training cannot be emphasized enough in providing the fundamental skills for successful and fulfilling personal, professional, and civic activities. Students from any major or academic plan may earn the certificate. The student may satisfy several local GE requirements with these courses.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2023

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking (3)	3
or COMM 303	Mediated Oral Communication (3)
or COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
or COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
or COMM 481	Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion	3
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication	3
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication	3
Total Units:		12

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

demonstrate effective communication appropriate to the diverse needs of individuals, groups, and contexts.
identify active listening techniques to aid in comprehending spoken and unspoken messages.
analyze the impact of intrapersonal and interpersonal communication on personal and professional relationships.
apply ethical communication principles and practices.
critically reflect on their own messages before, during, and after the communication event.

Career Information

Virtually every employer survey identifies effective communication skills as highly desired and sought-after. The certificate will not only enhance the student's chances of being selected for that special job or position, but it may also open doors (personally, academically, professionally) that may have never been considered otherwise. Students can utilize their Applied Communication Skills in every employment context. Some examples: Primary and Secondary Education; Public Information; Human Resources Development; Corporate Training; Motivational Speaking; Political Speech Writing; Radio & Television; Advertising; Public Relations; College & University Instruction; Organizational Administration; Negotiation & Mediation Services; Writing for Publication; Personnel Management; Customer Service; Social Science Research; Corporate Imaging; Campaign Management; Marketing; Community Relations; Grant Writing. Some careers may require more than two years of study.

Professional and Workplace Communication Certificate

The Certificate of Achievement in Professional and Workplace Communication is designed to provide students with lower-division coursework to build communication skills applicable to the everyday workplace environment. This certificate focuses on employment and professional growth for people in the workforce, as well as individuals looking for personal growth, employability, upskilling, and reskilling. Students from any major or academic plan may earn the certificate. The student may satisfy several local GE requirements with these courses.

This certificate fulfills one of the most desired skills required by employers: the ability to communicate. By successfully completing the program, students will gain breadth and depth of communication competence to significantly impact future employment and promotion. This certificate will foster improved confidence and effectiveness in the global workplace and in professional communication environments.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2023

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 303	Mediated Oral Communication	3
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication	3
COMM 331	Group Discussion	3
COMM 341	Organizational Communication	3
Total Units:		12

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

categorize the various pathways for communication careers.
demonstrate effective and appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication skills in various formal/informal professional settings.
analyze the roles of processes in groups and organizations, including decision-making, team development, leadership, power, conflict, and diversity in various communication contexts.
identify diverse perspectives and the ways they influence communicating in professional contexts.
demonstrate the ability to accomplish communicative goals (self-efficacy).

Career Information

Virtually every employer survey identifies effective communication skills as highly desired and sought-after. Students can utilize their Professional and Workplace Communication in every employment context. Some examples: Primary and Secondary Education; Public Information; Human Resources Development; Corporate Training; Motivational Speaking; Political Speech Writing; Radio & Television; Advertising; Public Relations; College & University Instruction; Organizational Administration; Negotiation & Mediation Services; Writing for Publication; Personnel Management; Customer Service; Social Science Research; Corporate Imaging; Campaign Management; Marketing; Community Relations; Grant Writing. Some careers may require more than two years of study.

Communication (COMM) Courses

COMM 270 Communication Laboratory

Units:0.5 - 3
Hours:27 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Corequisite:Concurrent enrollment in at least one Communication course.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course provides individualized, self-paced, and/or small group instruction in basic oral communication skills. Individualized instructional modules are designed to help the student acquire or improve communication skills in specific areas including public speaking, argumentation, small group communication, forensics speaking, intercultural communication, and interpersonal communication. Students may work with peer tutors and instructors to improve their understanding and skills in speech organization, preparation of presentation aids, delivery of oral messages, creating group agendas, etc. The course is graded as Pass/No Pass. Students earn 0.5 units for every 27 hours of coursework completed, allowing them to earn from 0.5-3 units.

COMM 301 Introduction to Public Speaking

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better, and concurrent enrollment in COMM 270.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course prepares students to speak in a variety of rhetorical situations: academic, professional, social, and political. Students develop skills in ethical research, analytical thinking and listening, organization and outlining, and effective verbal and nonverbal delivery of messages for diverse audiences. Students are encouraged to incorporate their own sociocultural backgrounds and experiences when designing their presentations. Students conduct primary and secondary research to create original informative and persuasive oral presentations and incorporate this research into formal outlines using APA or MLA style citations.

Each student will complete a minimum of twenty-two minutes of evaluated speaking time “live” in the presence of others. This course is designed for students who already have college-level writing skills.

Recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student's self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus. Students may also be required to record speeches for instructor and peer feedback.

COMM 303 Mediated Oral Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
Advisory:COMM 301 with a grade of "C" or better; Completion of CISA 340 with grade of "C" or better or proficiency with computer presentation graphics (e.g., PowerPoint)
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course focuses on the analysis and practice of effective oral communication using a variety of mediums with diverse audiences. Focus is placed on the design and delivery of oral messages in digital oratory public speaking situations using auditory and visual channels. Students are encouraged to incorporate their own personal knowledge, sociocultural backgrounds, and experiences when designing presentations.

As this course meets the oral communication requirement, each student will be required to deliver oral presentations in front of a live audience (virtually or physically). Students are required to actively participate in online groups and deliver group oral presentations via video conferencing.

This course is designed for students who already have college-level writing skills. In addition to incorporating personal knowledge, students conduct primary and secondary research to create informative and persuasive oral presentations and incorporate this research into formal outlines using APA or MLA style citations.

Recording equipment, recording facilities, and access to a computer with online capabilities is required and is available on campus.

COMM 305 Oral Interpretation

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:COMM 301, ENGRD 310, ENGWR 300, or ESLW 340
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
C-ID:C-ID COMM 170
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course introduces students to the field of performance studies through the oral interpretation of various literary forms, including Western and Non-Western forms of literature. Theoretical issues and historical developments are examined and applied to the current performance trends in solo, duo, and interpreters' theater. The focus is on audience analysis, selection, and thematic analysis of literature, discussion, and application of vocal and physiological delivery techniques, program performance, and post-performance evaluation.

Oral performances will be delivered synchronously in front of a live audience.

COMM 311 Argumentation and Debate

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course introduces students to the role of argument in public discourse. Students develop presentational skills (oral and written) necessary for public advocacy. Assignments include researching, preparing, and presenting sound arguments, as well as developing strategies for refuting others' arguments. Students will explore areas of social, economic, and political controversy through the format of academic debate in written, and/or spoken form. Recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student's self-analysis and improvement.

COMM 315 Persuasion

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
Advisory:Completion of LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3
C-ID:C-ID COMM 190
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course presents fundamental theories and techniques of persuasion as they occur in various communication contexts, including commercial, interpersonal, public, and mass media. Students develop critical thinking skills by engaging in analysis, evaluation, and composition of persuasive messages and by examining the personal, political, cultural, and social impacts of persuasion. Students explore ethical considerations of persuasive communication; learn about types of reasoning; and identify fallacious arguments as they occur in persuasion.

COMM 316 Advanced Argumentation and Critical Thinking

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
Advisory:LIBR 325 or LIBT 325 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course is designed to extend students' critical thinking, argumentation, and reasoning in the context of the communication environment. The goal is to expand understanding of their logical processes and their relation to both written and spoken communication. Students will develop the ability to analyze, criticize, and advocate for ideas; to reason inductively and deductively; and to reach well-supported factual or judgmental conclusions. Elementary inductive and deductive processes will be covered, including an understanding of the formal and informal fallacies of language and thought and the ability to distinguish matters of fact from issues of judgment or opinion. Significant emphasis will be on the sophistication of written skills surrounding argument and rhetoric.

COMM 321 Interpersonal Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D7; IGETC Area 4G
C-ID:C-ID COMM 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course focuses on the exploration of communication skills associated with establishing and maintaining satisfying interpersonal relationships. Through theory, discussion, simulations, and structured exercises, students will explore various approaches to successful communication in interpersonal contexts. This course strives to increase an individual's interpersonal communication effectiveness through heightened awareness and greater skill as both a sender and receiver of shared messages.

COMM 325 Intercultural Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4G
C-ID:C-ID COMM 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course introduces students to the challenges and promises of intercultural communication emphasizing the various aspects of co-cultures within the United States. Variations and commonalities in communication patterns across cultures are examined. Communication processes and outcomes between persons of different cultural backgrounds are also explored. The course emphasizes practical application of factors that influence communication between individuals of different cultures.

COMM 331 Group Discussion

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better, and concurrent enrollment in COMM 270.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 140
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course prepares students to understand and analyze group dynamics to enable them to function more effectively in task and social groups. The course addresses communication concepts and behaviors including problem-solving, decision making, leadership, group roles, norms, and conformity.

Each student will complete a minimum of twenty-two minutes of evaluated speaking time through oral presentations (individual or group) "live" in the physical presence of others. Students are encouraged to incorporate their own sociocultural backgrounds and experiences when designing their presentations.

This course is designed for students who already have college-level writing skills. Students conduct primary and secondary research to create informative and persuasive oral presentations and incorporate this research into formal outlines using APA or MLA style citations.

Recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student's self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus.

COMM 335 Conflict Management

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course examines the communication behaviors involved in the process of interpersonal, work group, and organizational conflicts. Course content will focus on conceptual understanding of theoretical foundations in the social sciences. Application and activities will address the components of conflict and the strategies by which conflict may effectively be managed in personal and professional settings.

COMM 341 Organizational Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area D7
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course is designed to allow students to examine both theoretical and pragmatic essentials of effective organizational communication from preparation and presentation to effective observation and analysis. Students will explore the dynamics of organizational communication in various situations including focus groups, quality control groups, ad hoc committees, conflict negotiation teams, and problem solving and decision making groups. The roles of internal and external messages in the communication process and organizational effectiveness will be examined and analyzed.

COMM 351 Mass Media and Society

Same As:ENGWR 384 and JOUR 310
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D4; IGETC Area 4G
C-ID:C-ID JOUR 100
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This is an interdisciplinary course exploring aspects of communication and the impact of mass media on the individual and society. The survey includes basic communication models, books, magazines, newspapers, recordings, movies, radio, television, advertising, public relations, the Internet, theories of communication, relationships between mass media and business and government, and processes and effects from a social science perspective. Credit may be awarded for only one section of either COMM 351, ENGWR 384, or JOUR 310.

COMM 361 The Communication Experience

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of C or better, and concurrent enrollment in COMM 270.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 115
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

In this course, students analyze and practice effective communication in a variety of settings with diverse audiences. Focus is placed on effective communication in groups, facilitation of interpersonal relationships, and methods of managing conflict, as well as message design and delivery for multiple purposes and to diverse audiences. Students are required to actively participate in groups and deliver original individual and group oral presentations. Students are encouraged to incorporate their own sociocultural backgrounds and experiences when designing their presentations.

Each student will complete a minimum of twenty-two minutes of evaluated speaking time through oral presentations “live” in the physical presence of others.

This course is designed for students who already have college-level writing skills. Students conduct primary and secondary research to create informative and persuasive oral presentations, and incorporate this research into formal outlines using APA or MLA style citations.

Recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student's self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus.

COMM 369 Gateway to Communication Studies: Personal and Professional Development

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU (effective Fall 2023); UC (effective Fall 2023)
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b) (effective Fall 2023); AA/AS Area III(b) (effective Fall 2023)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course provides an introduction to the academic study of Communication and serves as a gateway to the various concentrations within the discipline. It emphasizes the multidisciplinary history and evolving nature of the study of communication. It surveys the various areas of specialization in human, mass media, and mediated communication. This course is designed to help connect students to personal, academic, and professional success by emphasizing U.S. labor projections, occupational trends, and career-building strategies.

COMM 374 Forensics Laboratory

Units:1 - 3
Hours:9 - 18 hours LEC; 27 - 108 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:COMM 301 or COMM 311 with grades of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU
C-ID:C-ID COMM 160B
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

Through individualized instruction and participation in public speaking events, academic debate, or literature interpretation, students will develop speaking, organization, and listening skills, as well as the ability to recognize matters of political, social, and economic importance. This course helps students develop their skills as critical thinkers and competent speakers, giving practice in preparing for and participating in at least one officially sanctioned intercollegiate forensics competition. Areas of interest include academic debate, platform speeches (persuasive, informative, speech to entertain, communication analysis), limited preparation speeches (impromptu, extemporaneous), and oral interpretation of literature performances.

As all students must participate in at least one intercollegiate forensics tournament, field trips to tournaments and other speaking events are required. The course may be taken four times for a maximum of twelve units.

COMM 481 Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Advisory:LIBR 318 with a grade of "C" or better, and concurrent enrollment in COMM 270. Honors courses are open to students who demonstrate an ability to write carefully reasoned, well-organized essays of varying lengths, are prepared to make clear oral presentations in class, and are able to actively contribute to seminar discussions.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course prepares students to speak in a variety of rhetorical situations: academic, professional, social, and political. Students develop skills in ethical research, analytical thinking and listening, organization and outlining, and effective verbal and nonverbal delivery of messages for diverse audiences. Students are encouraged to incorporate their own sociocultural backgrounds and experiences when designing their presentations. Students conduct primary and secondary research to create informative and persuasive oral presentations and incorporate this research into formal outlines using APA or MLA style citations.

Each student will complete a minimum of 22 minutes of evaluated speaking time. This course is designed for students who already have college-level writing skills.

Recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student's self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus. Students may also be required to record speeches for instructor and peer feedback.

As an Honors Course, this course requires students to (1) compose and present professional conference paper presentations, (2) learn about and demonstrate competence in Q & A sessions following presentations, and (3) analyze and apply critical evaluation skills through academic papers.
This course is not open to students who have completed COMM 301.

COMM 494 Topics in Communication

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:9 - 54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course is designed to enable both Communication and non-Communication majors to learn about recent developments in communication. Selected topics would not be part of current course offerings. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

COMM 495 Independent Studies in Communication

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This course involves an individual student or small groups of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regular offered courses, pursuant to an agreement among college, faculty members, and students. Independent studies in communication offers students a chance to do research that is more typical of industry and graduate student work. UC transfer credit will be awarded only after the course has been evaluated by the enrolling UC campus. The units completed for this course cannot be counted towards the minimum 60 units required for admissions.

COMM 499 Experimental Offering in Communication

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
Catalog Date:August 1, 2023

This is the experimental courses description.