Course Description
Theories and research methodologies in communication studies. Emphasis on application of theory to social and cultural contexts and use of methods to solve research problems/answer research questions.
Syllabus
Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:
Students successfully completing this course will be able to:
- discuss the philosophical assumptions underlying paradigms/traditions of inquiry in the field of communication.
- compare and contrast traditions and paradigms of inquiry in the construction of communication theory.
- apply a particular perspective to the evaluation of theoretical literature.
- synthesize and describe knowledge of theories in communication pertinent to representative paradigms/traditions.
- demonstrate a high level of critical thinking skills in the understanding and evaluation of evidence supporting communication theories.
- develop a personal "mind map" to guide your professional action as a graduate student and communication practitioner.
- discover ways to engage/apply theory as a framing device for your communication choices in everyday social contexts.
Course Grading Information:
| Activity/Performance Measure | Percentage/Points |
|---|---|
| Weekly In Class Writing Assignments | 100 points each (10 total)/67% |
| Annotated Bibliography | 200 points/13% |
| Final Literature Review | 300 points/20% |
Attendance/Participation:
Two absences will result in a grade of F.
Course Materials Purchased by the Students:
Stephen W. Littlejohn, Karen A. Foss, and John G. Oetzel (2021). Theories of Human Communication (12th ed.). Waveland Press.
Scholarly Perspectives
This course engages diverse scholarly perspectives to develop critical thinking, analysis, and debate and inclusion of a reading does not imply endorsement.