Communication Studies - 2009-2011 Course Catalog

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Communication Studies (CMST)

CMST 100 Fundamentals of Oral Communication (5)

Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills related to communication in business and organizational settings. Written exercises include a cover letter and resume. Oral activities include interpersonal exercises, group discussion, giving directions and interviewing. Formerly COMM 100.

CMST& 102 Introduction to Mass Media (5)

Examines the eight forms of mass media (movies, television, the Web, radio, sound recordings, magazines, newspapers and books) and related issues such as advertising, media effects, journalism and media law. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly JOURN 201.

CMST 177 Communication Work Experience 1 (1-12)

Allows students to work full or part-time in jobs directly related to their programs and interests. Students may receive a salary or volunteer. PREREQUISITE: Concurrent enrollment in COOP 171 and instructor's permission. Formerly COMM 177.

CMST 178 Communication Work Experience 2 (1-12)

CMST 179 Communication Work Experience 3 (1-12)

CMST 194 Special Studies - Communication (1-5)

Includes special communication projects that are not part of the regular curriculum. Content varies from course to course, but could include public relations, advertising, organizational design, research grants, and professional publications. Formerly COMM 194.

CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication (5)

For students who wish to gain greater insight into communication that occurs in more personal relationships in order to better understand and control their own communication behavior, and thus more effectively manage their interpersonal relationships. PREREQUISITE: Eligible for READ 104, READ 104 or instructor's permission. Satisfies a humanities/fine Arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 110.

CMST 212 Persuasion and Propaganda (5)

An exploration of the art and science of persuasion and propaganda campaigns through the analysis of a series of historical case studies and social movements. Explores how the historical, political, and cultural factors in a situation influence the strategies and tactics that might be employed in a situation. Relates rhetorical choices to ethical considerations and to the long-term impact on a community. RECOMMEND: Eligible for ENGL& 101. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 212.

CMST 215 Critical Analysis of Media (5)

Examines basic theories of media analysis and effects. Covers stereotypes, persuasive messages, and violent and sexual imagery. Applies media theories to a variety of media including movies, television, radio, and print. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 215.

CMST& 220 Public Speaking (5)

Beginning level course that helps students develop confidence in addressing audiences in community and professional settings. Students examine interpersonal variables that affect communication, compose and deliver speeches, and evaluate student presentations. PREREQUISITE: Eligible for ENGL 100 or ENGL 081 with a grade of 2.0 or higher and eligible for READ 104 or higher. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 101.

CMST 221 Public Speaking Module (1)

Helps students increase confidence and skill when delivering oral presentation by providing opportunities for individual coaching. Students taking CMST& 220 concurrently will be able to practice speeches assiged in their classes, however this class is available to any students wishig to improve presentational skkill. Student coaching sessions will be recorded, and students will have access to their own speeches for the purpose of analysis. PREREQUISITE: Concurrent enrollment in CMST& 220.

CMST& 230 Small Group Communication (5)

Includes analysis of leadership and discussion in small group contexts with a goal of developing communication behaviors that promote a more effective, efficient, and satisfying interaction in groups and leadership contexts. Addresses the functional problems of leadership, organization in groups, developing involvement strategies within groups, problem solving, consensus building, and conflict management. RECOMMEND: Eligible for ENGL& 101. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 234.

CMST 238 Intercultural Communication (5)

Looks at communication across cultures on the interpersonal and intergroup levels. Investigates the components of culture that work to affect the communication of members in and across cultures. Examines different aspects of the communication process as they relate to intercultural communication, including perception, language, nonverbal communication, etc. Considers the overview of prevalent theories and practical applications. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 238.

CMST 245 Argumentation (5)

Introduces and explores the basic theories and practices of argumentation. Discusses the different types of arguments and the tools (theoretical and practical) needed to analyze, understand, and construct arguments. Through in-class projects, students develop the skills necessary to test and apply the theoretical and practical aspects of argumentation. Focuses on the oral presentation of arguments. Uses written work to support and provide context for the oral argumentation practiced in class. Satisfies a humanities/fine arts/English requirement for AA degree. Formerly COMM 245.

CMST 265 Introduction to Popular Culture (5)

Why is the iPod so popular? Who really watches reality TV? What makes it possible for celebrities to become activists and politicians? What determines what music will be popular? These are the types of questions popular culture theory explores. This course is an introduction to the theories and practices of popular culture. Students will be introduced to some of the most important critiques of culture since the 1930s. Different theories and critiques will be introduced to help the students understand popular culture, the consumption of popular culture and/or the effects of popular culture in different contexts (e.g., music, film, books, magazines, advertising, comics, television, etc.) Recommended: College level reading and writing.

CMST 299 Independent Study–Communication Studies (1-5)

Encourages a student to study independently in a communication field of their choice.Each student meets on a tutorial basis with the instructor. PREREQUISITE: Two courses from the following: CMST 212, 215, &220, &230, 238, 245; a topic that a member of the department is qualified and willing to direct and evaluate, and permission from the division chair and instructor. Formerly COMM 299.

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