ASSIGNMENTS

 SCHEDULE

 

COMM 401
Interpersonal Communication
in the Workplace
Spring 2009

Monday & Wednesday
10:30-11:45
Innovation Hall 136

 

Catalogue Description

Comprehensive study of the theories and research associated with the dynamics of interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Emphasis on such topics as individual motivation, interpersonal needs, communication styles in the workplace, leadership, problem solving, decision making, diversity, interpersonal conflict, individual adaptation to organizational change, and the influence of technology on workplace relationships.

Course Description

This course will provide a comprehensive study of the theories and research associated with the dynamics of interpersonal relationships in the workplace. The course will include a discussion of such topics as motivation and interpersonal needs, communication styles, leadership, and management, problem-solving, and decision-making, diversity, conflict, changed, and the influence of technology on interpersonal relationships in the workplace. The course will use self-assessment, case studies and discussion as the basis for analyzing and assessing workplace communication.

Course Objective

  1. To identify the fundamental aspects of communication in workplace relationships;
  2. to describe communication concepts related to the development, maintenance, and termination of workplace relationships;
  3. to discuss unique communication characteristics of specific relationship types;
  4. to identify strategies for more effective communication in the workplace.

Required Textbook

**Please be sure you bring your textbook to every class period**

de Janasz, S. C., Dowd, K. O., & Schneider, B. Z. (2009). Interpersonal Skills in Organizations, 3rd ed. Boston:McGraw-Hill.

ISBN: 0073405019

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.
  6. Class participation is important for success in this course. Students have a responsibility to prepare, attend, and contribute to class sessions. The very nature of the communication discipline demands that learning occur through discussion, illustration, and experience. Attendance is expected.
  7. Class climate is an essential ingredient for the success of this course. At various points during the semester, we may examine sensitive and personal issues as they relate to aspects of interpersonal communication. "Sensitive" topics might include references to religion, race, one's personal philosophy of life, sexuality, sexual orientation, family life, issues of political controversy, cultural differences, or individual moral dilemmas. Differences of experience, attitude, and values can be discussed meaningfully so long as we agree to respect norms of civil discussion.

In addition, individual skill development is stressed in COMM 401. Students learn principles relating to small group interaction. In COMM 401, 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: two (2 absences) for Monday/ Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday classes. 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.