Comm 201
Small Group Communication

Spring 2012

Mondays, 4:30pm - 7:10pm

Science & Tech I, #206

Tracey Krat is our awesome TA: tkrat@gmu.edu

Catalogue Description

Small Group Communication: Principles of communicating effectively in small group situations. Emphasis on problem-solving group communication. Practice in working cooperatively with others to complete projects using a systematic approach to problem solving.

Course Description:

This course provides an in-depth introduction to small group discussion and problem solving. It covers theory of the dynamics of small group interaction. It emphasizes:

(1) observational analysis of small group communication,

(2) proficiency in group decision making and problem solving,

(3) skills related to leadership, group maintenance, and group achievement, and

(4) presentational ability in a group.

 

The course includes discussion, group interaction, on-line "chat" assignments, group projects, community service, and skill-building exercises.

Course Objective/Rationale:

The objective of this course is to provide students with both the theory and the practice necessary to help them succeed in group settings within organizations.

Required Textbook:

In Mixed Company: Communicating in Small Groups and Teams, 8th ed.
J. Dan Rothwell
ISBN-13: 9781111346850

Student Learning Objectives:

In all communication classes, the following objectives are involved:

 

  1. Students will become aware of the fundamental principles of communication as they apply in a variety of situations.
  2. Students will have experiences that teach self-monitoring and thus provide the basis for life-long improvement of their communication skills.
  3. Students will receive reinforcement for effective written communication.
  4. Students will understand the role of free speech in a democratic society.
  5. Students will gain insight about the influence of culture in communication and how to cope with cultural differences when interacting with others.

In addition, individual skill development is stressed in COMM 201. Students learn principles relating to small group interaction. In COMM 201, the following specific objectives are identified:

 

  1. Students will understand the interrelationship between interpersonal concepts and the small group process by acquiring problem-solving skills through experiential learning and through working in small groups and teams.
  2. Students will develop analytical skills and critical listening skills by practicing the use of interpersonal skills in various group and team situations.
  3. Students will gain critical writing and research skills by learning how to conduct responsible and appropriate research on group dynamics.
  4. Students will be able to explicate principles underlying communication in small groups.
  5. Students will employ group leadership, maintenance, and participation skills in small group, task, decision making, and problem solving settings.
  6. Students will observe, record, research, and evaluate communication in group settings.
  7. Students will work cooperatively with others in preparing and presenting ideas in class.
  8. Students will acquire skills necessary for group communication in organizational settings, including the use of on-line "chat" discussion group processes.

Participation:

You are expected to participate in all classes. If you miss your scheduled presentation time, a grade penalty of 20 points per class meeting is automatically imposed. No exceptions. You must make up your missed presentation within a week or you will receive a "0" for the assignment. Your group members will also be counting on you to be there to participate in group work. Your absence may affect their grade too.

 

Accountability is important in this class. Do not be late for class; it is disruptive and discourteous. Routinely coming to class late or leaving early will not be tolerated without penalty. If you are absent or tardy for any reason, you are responsible for the material covered and any announcements made while you were gone. Your instructor will not provide this information; you must get it from a classmate.

 

Because this class is group intensive, it is essential that you attend every class session. You are allowed a limited number of non-participation days on non-speaking days. The limited number of non-participation days you are allowed are as follows: one absence for a once-a-week class. Every class session will involve in-class assignments that are worth points and cannot be made up. Your final grade will depend on your attendance.

top

 

Design downloaded from free website templates.