COMM 1563: Interpersonal Communication

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Subject
Communication
Credit Hours 3.0 Lecture Hours 3.0 Lab Hours 0.0
Type of Credit
Baccalaureate/Transfer
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Course Description
The student will study the basic principles and elements of communication between individuals and in groups. Interpersonal communication skills will be explored, analyzed, and practiced. Among the topics covered are the communication process, verbal and nonverbal communication, conflict management and cooperative resolution. Interpersonal communication principles will be applied to a variety of settings. AAS: Humanities elective.

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Explain the elements of interpersonal communication.
  • Summarize the relationship between communication and self-concept.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the verbal and nonverbal elements of communication.
  • Identify and analyze some of the cultural factors that impact interpersonal communication.
  • Practice listening and responding skills within conversations.
  • Critically analyze communication within different types of relationships and contexts.
  • Critically analyze how gender can influence interpersonal communication.
  • Explain factors that play a role in interpersonal conflicts and articulate conflict management strategies.
  • Critically analyze some of the benefits and challenges of computer-mediated communication when forming and maintaining relationships.
  • Summarize the potential negative outcomes of interpersonal communication (i.e., the dark side of communication).
Topical Outline

1. Foundations of Human Communication

A. Basic principles of human communication (e.g., communication is symbolic, communication is shared meaning, communication occurs in a context with unique audiences)

B. Purposes of interpersonal communication

C. Elements of interpersonal communication

D. Perception process

2. Self & Communication

A. The relationship between communication and self-concept

B. Communication dispositions

3. Verbal Elements of Communication

A. How words work to make meaning

B. Functions and types of language

C. Improving verbal communication

4. Nonverbal Communication

A. The role and value of nonverbal communication in interaction

B. The different types and functions of nonverbal behavior

5. Cultural Factors in Interpersonal Communication

A. Key values and characteristics which shape a culture's communication norms

B. Improving intercultural communication skills

6. Talking and Listening

A. Types of conversations

B. Self-disclosure

C. Improving listening and responding skills

D. Perception checking

7. Understanding Relationships

A. Different types of attraction

B. Stages of relationships

C. Communication within different types of relationships and contexts

D. How gender affects relationships and communicative behavior

8. Interpersonal Conflict

A. Emotional awareness and emotional intelligence

B. Power and influence

C. Conflict management strategies, including cooperative resolution of conflict

9. Interpersonal Communication in Mediated Contexts

A. Computer-mediated communication (CMC) process

B. Synchronous and asynchronous CMC

C. CMC rules and norms

D. Some of the benefits and challenges of CMC when forming and maintaining relationships

10. The Dark Side of Interpersonal Communication

A. Hurtful messages

B. Aggression

C. Bullying

D. Deception