COM 110 INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN COMMUNICATION

JOE ZUBRICK 768-9942; 764-4004(H)
zubrickj@polaris.umpi.maine.edu

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Course Description:

This course is a survey of human communication including discussions of intrapersonal, interpersonal, group, public, media, non-verbal, intercultural, and linguistic issues. Various communication performances are required of all students. Satisfies the general education core requirement.

COM 110 includes the study of critical thinking through college level writing and the the development of research skills. Students are required to become minimally proficient with a range of electronic media including on-line catalogs and databases for library reference, electronic mail, and the World Wide Web (WWW). Students are also expected to become familiar with MicroSoft Word. Word is available on all PC compatible computers in the computing labs. Students are advised to contact Computer Services for a list of computer workshops. Check this out for computer assistance

Course Objectives:

• To develop an understanding and an appreciation for communication areas and processes;
• To develop critical abilities in structuring and evaluating written, verbal and gestural messages in a variety of communication settings;
• To gain a broader understanding of the role in critical thinking within our daily lives;
• To develop strategies and skills commensurate with college level writing, thinking and speaking;
• To investigate the potentials of electronic media for communication;
• To deepen research strategies and skills.

Class assignments:

Hacker, Diane. Research and Documentation in the Electronic Age

General class procedure:

COM 110 is participation based. Students are expected to read assigned materials or complete outside tasks before the next class meeting. The class is also experiential. Students will participate in and out of class on communication assignments. Classes will contain short lecturettes and activities. Typically, the first class of the week will combine lecture, Q&A and assignment of class exercises. The second class of the week will focus on in-class activity. Students should be prepared for daily writing and speaking exercises. Students are expected to:

1. Attend classes. Due to the participatory and experiential nature of the course students should attend classes. I will accept valid excuses for absence and work with students to address lost time through outside assignment. Please inform me in advance, if possible, of any planned absence.

2. The goal of the class is participation. Participation, as reflected in your final grade, is constituted by in class activity and electronic communication outside of class. This communication is reflected in the discussion boards on Blackboard or through other email clients.

3. Turn in assignments in a timely fashion and according to the accepted class format. All assignments done outside of class are to be word processed (or typed). E-mail submission of assignments is encouraged. Consult class schedule for deadlines.

Grading for COM 110.

Accommodations:

If you have a disability and need an accommodation or assistance in this course, please make an appointment with me. If you prefer, you may contact Ms. Myrna McGaffin in Student Support Services, South Hall (ext. 613) or, at Houlton, Jean Henderson (ext. 14).