Department of Communication Home Page

UNDERGRADUATE COURSES

104

106

170

200

201

204

207

210

240

241

256

257

305

332

334

335

342

343

350

355

356

357

358

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370

372

398

430

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477

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482

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499

505

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554

564

 

 

COM 104 Public Speaking

3 hrs.

Study of the application of principles of communication underlying effective oral presentations, with attention given to speaking in business, professional and public settings. Includes practice in preparing, presenting and evaluating speeches and other forms of oral presentations. This course may be offered in an accelerated format. $10.00 lab fee.


COM 106 Voice and Diction

3 hrs.

Individual improvement program emphasizing voice production and diction.


COM 170 Interpersonal Communication

3 hrs.

An introductory course in communication theory and practice in which students utilize their powers of speech to increase their effectiveness in interpersonal relations through understanding of self and others. This course may be offered in an accelerated format.


COM 200 Introduction to Communication Theory

3 hrs.

A study of communication models and theories which are common to the fields of interpersonal, group, organizational, public and mass communication.


COM 201 Communication Inquiry

3 hrs.

This course introduces students to the humanistic and social science traditions of inquiry into human communication. Prerequisites: COM 200 and must have fulfilled General Education math proficiency requirement.


COM 204 Advanced Public Speaking

3 hrs.

Advanced study and presentation of informative, argumentative, persuasive and special occasion speeches. $10.00 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 104 or consent of department.


COM 207 Intrapersonal Communication

3 hrs.

The examination of intrapersonal communication models showing how imagery and symbolic processes organize patterns of thinking that permit self-direction and regulation.


COM 210 Performance of Literature I

3 hrs.

Emphasis is placed on developing the student's appreciation of literature and his/her skill in analysis and performance of prose, poetry, and drama, including an introduction to group performance of literature. $10.00 lab fee.


COM 240 Introduction to Media and Telecommunications

3 hrs.

This course will introduce the history, development, and study of media and telecommunications. Areas of study will include roles in media organizations, including management, programming, journalism, and media production. In addition, this curse will examine the media's relationship to economic, political, and social institutions (including advertising and regulation); media literacy; and social effects research.


COM 241 Film Communication

3 hrs.

An introduction to the unique language and elements of the film medium through the study of outstanding examples of historical and contemporary experimental, documentary and feature films. $12 lab fee.


COM 256 Broadcast Operations

3 hrs.

Introduction to the electronic theory, equipment, operating procedures and personnel involved in radio/television production, storage and distribution.


COM 257 Radio Programming and Production

3 hrs.

· Analysis of sound as a creative element in radio broadcasting and production. Studio experience in writing and producing radio formats, commercials, drama, documentary and other types of aural messages. $12 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 256.


COM 305 Special Topics In Communication

1-4 hrs.

Group study of special topics in communication education, interpersonal and organizational communication, mass communication, oral interpretation, and film. Many of these special courses are organized in response to special needs or interests of students on campus, in the community and in the region. Some topics are announced in the Schedule of Classes; some are added during the semester. Further information and a full listing of topics may be obtained from the Departmental office, 301 Sprau Tower. Specific topic must be approved by an advisor. Six hours of COM 305 and COM 505 may be accumulated as credit toward a major or minor in communication.


COM 332 Group Problem Solving

3 hrs.

This course examines principles and procedures of effective group communication with an emphasis on practical application of problem solving, decision making, and critical thinking skills. Individuals will work together in a variety of group situations learning to communicate effectively, plan agendas, make decisions, write and present group reports, and analyze group communication behaviors. $10.00 lab fee. Prerequisites: COM 170, COM 200 and ENGL 105 or the equivalent.


COM 334 Argumentation and Debate

3 hrs.

Theory and practice in argumentation and debate. Included are the analysis of propositions and the use of logic and evidence. Students will build, present, and defend cases. Debate is taught as a process of inquiry and advocacy.


COM 335 Leadership

3 hrs.

A study of the characteristics and behaviors of leaders with emphasis on the development of leadership abilities in the individual for different group situations. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisites: COM 170, COM 200, and ENGL 105 or the equivalent.


COM 342 The Film Industry

3 hrs.

The history and development of the American film medium from an economic, social, and cultural perspective. Emphasis will be on methods of production, distribution, exhibition, and legal issues. Prerequisite: COM 241.


COM 343 American Film History

3 hrs.

This course will survey developments over time in the production and reception of feature films. Major concerns will include the evolution of the studio system, the impact of technological change on film practice, influences on Hollywood of other national cinemas, and the changing relationship between Hollywood and American society. Representative films will provide key texts for each unit of the course. $12.00 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 241.


COM 350 Public Relations and Organizations

3 hrs.

The course will examine the role of public relations and public information in a variety of organizations with a communication theory perspective. The course is designed to prepare individuals for positions in public relations and public information, or for other positions in organizations concerned with the flow of information across organization boundaries. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisite: COM 200 or consent of instructor.


COM 355 Small Format Video Production

3 hrs.

Practical experience in the design, production, implementation and evaluation of small-format television programs. Applications of portable video technology to the broadcast industry and community cable television systems will be stressed. $25 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 256.


COM 356 Film Production

3 hrs.

Production of short experimental films; scripting, planning, editing, directing and photography. Work in this course will be done within the limitations of 8 mm format. In addition to text materials, students must provide supplies averaging about $30.00 per student. $25 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 241.


COM 357 TV Studio Production

3 hrs.

Explores the elements of television studio production and directing. Studio experience in equipment operation, crew roles, and producing and directing various types of television studio formats. In addition to the texts, students must provide supplies averaging about $10. $20 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 256.


COM 358 TV and Film Scripting

3 hrs.

The styles and techniques of film and television scripting for broadcast formats, station continuity, commercials, dramatic scripts, small format video, and documentary. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum.


COM 359 Broadcast Journalism

3 hrs.

Radio and TV as news and information media. Studies and applies principles of news gathering and reporting, commentary, on-the-spot news coverage, features, and structure of the newscast. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. $10.00 lab fee.


COM 370 Interpersonal Communication II

3 hrs.

An analysis of relational communication with particular emphasis on the nature of transactional relationships. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisites: COM 170, COM 200 or consent of instructor, and ENGL 105 or the equivalent.


COM 372 Introduction to General Semantics

3 hrs.

A study of the function of language. The course deals with the nature and meaning of symbols and differences between the communication systems of the human animal and other species. Examines the assumptions held by Western man about the structure/function of his universe as reflected in language; the problem of 'reality" as distinct from "meaning." The purpose of the course is to increase the student's awareness of his/her effectiveness as a thinker or symbol-user. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisite: ENGL 105 or the equivalent.


COM 398 Independent Study Communication

1-6 hm.

Designed to allow outstanding students to work independently under staff supervision. Includes extensive study, research or special creative projects in any of the several areas of communication. One to six hours credit may be accumulated. Prerequisite: Consent, Chair of School.


COM 430 Studies in Attitude Change: Variable Topics

3hrs.

Selected areas of detailed study within the total range of rhetoric. Each of the courses listed below carries separate credit, and a student may take any or all of the offerings listed under COM 430. In addition to the topics listed, additional topics are offered from time to time and will be listed in the Schedule of Classes.

  1. Freedom of Speech
  2. Political Communication


COM 432 Group Communication Theory

3 hrs.

A study of small group communication from theoretical perspectives. The emphasis will be on analyzing small group communication based on an understanding of group communication theories, concepts, and research methods. Prerequisite: COM 332.


COM 440 Public Relations Case Studies

3 hrs.

This course uses a case study approach to apply principles of communication and persuasion theory to public relations problems. The course examines a variety of types of organizations in relation to issue advocacy and public policy, risk communication, legitimization, defense, and crisis management. Prerequisite: COM 350.


COM 441 Documentary in Film and Television

3 hrs.

A study of documentary philosophies, strategies, and accomplishments through an examination of important documentarists, movements, and films. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. $12.00 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 241.


COM 442 Mass Media and the Child

3 hrs.

Assesses the impact that mass media, including radio, television, films, comics, and other media, may be having on the minds and behaviors of children.


COM 443 Mass Media and Social Change

3 hrs.

The course examines the role of the mass media in diffusing information and persuasive messages, and the effects of these messages on individuals, groups and institutions. The fields of politics, advertising, and public relations are studied from the communication/change viewpoint of the practitioner and the consumer.


COM 444 Mass Communication, News, and Public Affairs

3 hrs.

The course examines the role of the media in covering public affairs news and disseminating it to the public. Questions related to media access, fairness, media regulation and message production are discussed in light of current events.


COM 445 Media Criticism

3 hrs.

Examines the various functions and writings of contemporary media critics and establishes criteria for evaluating media content and critical methods. Students will read, view, and listen to a variety of media content, including television and radio programs, newspaper and magazine articles, advertisements, films, documentaries, and Web pages.


COM 446 Mass Entertainment

3 hrs.

This course examines the role and functions of mass entertainment in modern society. Major topics include mass entertainment as part Of leisure; the social and psychological functions of mass entertainment; measuring mass taste; and in-depth study of popular mass media formats such as soap operas, detective, western, popular music, etc.


COM 447 Organizational TV Production

3 hrs.

Applications of radio and TV technology for, the business professional, educator, media specialist, and the clinician. Utilization of: electronic media for training, research observation and instruction. In addition to required text materials, students must provide supplies averaging about $10 per student. $20 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 256.


COM 448 Telecommunications Management

3 hrs.

The course examines broadcasting, telephone, cable, and other new communication technologies, with a primary emphasis on principles of telecommunication management, economical and policy. The course is supplemented with a series of case studies and discussions pertaining to select management issues. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing, COM 200 and COM 240; or graduate standing.


COM 450 Public Relations Program Development

3 hrs.

This is an advanced course in public relations emphasizing research methodology, developing planning objectives, and program evaluation for corporate, governmental, educational, and social service organizations. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 449.


COM 452 Broadcast and Cable Sales

3 hrs.

This course examines the theory and process of buying and selling broadcast and cable time on the local and network levels. Prerequisite: COM 240.


COM 454 Interactive Media

3 hrs.

The course is designed to investigate the psychological and social effects of on-line interactive communication technologies in the interpersonal, organizational, and social contexts. It also proposes to develop on-line communication and information retrieval skills, and guide students through non-linear organization of information and by.13ertaxt design of communication on the Wd3b.. Prerequisite: CS 105 or equivalent.


COM 455 International Telecommunications

3 hrs.

This course is designed to provide the student with an overview of the essential regulatory and policy issues governing the field of international telecommunications. Special attention is given to the major regulatory agencies and economic players responsible for the formation of telecommunications policy at the international level.


COM 456 Broadcast/Cable Programming

3 hrs.

This course examines the strategies of selecting, purchasing, and scheduling broadcast and cable programming on the local and network levels. $10 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 240.


COM 457 Advanced TV Studio Production

3 hrs.

Individual and group projects in the development and production of television programs stressing experimental techniques. $20 lab fee. Prerequisite: COM 200, COM 357.


COM 458 Television Performance

3 hrs.

Exercises in television performance, stressing the special problems of the video performer. $15 lab fee. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.


COM 470 Communication, Social Issues and Change

3 hrs.

A study and practical application of communication and rhetorical methodology in contemporary social problems.


COM 472 Nonverbal Communication

3 hrs.

The course examines theory and research in the nature and function of nonverbal message systems. Topics include: the role of nonverbal communication in the developmental stages of humans; individual differences in ability to Interpret messages; the relationship of nonverbal communication to the concept of culture; extension of a person such as space, clothing, possessions; and specific messages related to the face and body.


COM 474 Intercultural Communication

3 hrs.

An examination of the factors contributing to effective communication in an intercultural context. The course focuses on such topics as ethnocentrism, cultural perceptions, values and beliefs, language and meaning, and nonverbal factors. Communication systems of selected cultures are described and analyzed.


COM 475 Family Communication

3 hrs.

Examines the current literature pertaining to holistic systems, power influences, and satisfactory patterns of family communications. Students analyze family interactions and identify satisfactory patterns of marital family communication.


COM 477 Communication Ethics

3 hrs.

Ethical theories and justification models are studied and related to ethical decision making in a variety of communication contexts, including mass communication, organizational communication, and interpersonal communication. The course will examine the components of good ethical decision making in communication, as well as obstacles that can stand in the way of responsible choices.


COM 479 Female/Male Interaction

3 hrs.

Examines the variable Of gender as it influences communication between women and men. Topics include female-male stereotypes, interpersonal attraction, differences in female-male verbal and nonverbal codes, relational dialogues and patterns, and female-male interaction on the job.


COM 482 Communication Processes in the Organization

3 hrs.

This course is a systematic study of the communication processes in organizations at the individual, group, and organization-wide levels. Students will learn strategic communication planning, including methods of organizing and evaluating information, identifying and solving communication problems and applying organizational communication skills in decision-making. This course is approved as a writing-intensive course which may fulfill the baccalaureate-level writing requirement of the student's curriculum. Prerequisites: COM 170, COM 200, and ENGL 105 or the equivalent.


COM 483 Interviewing

3 hrs.

Theories and principles of planning, conducting, and evaluating interviews are studied and applied to specific interview types, including selection, performance appraisal, survey, and journalistic interviews. Emphasis is placed on the perspective of the interviewer rather than interviewee. $10.00 lab fee.


COM 484 Health Communication

3 hrs.

Studies concepts and theories relevant to the maintenance and enhancement of effective communication in health care settings. Emphasis is given to the study and application of communication theories, to the transactions which occur among health professionals, and between professionals and clients/patients. This course may be offered in an accelerated format.


COM 499 Internship

1-3 hrs.

This internship for academic credit is available only to those students who meet departmental requirements of prerequisite courses and grade point average. Specific requirements f'or various types of internships are described in the departmental undergraduate handbook, available in 300 Sprau Tower or from an undergraduate advisor.

Undergraduates with junior or senior status and 15 hours of COM or related courses may enroll in 500-level courses with prior approval of advisor and/or instructor.


COM 505 Special Topics in Communication

1-3 hrs.

Advanced group study of special topics in communication education, interpersonal and organizational communication, mass communication, oral interpretation, and film. Many of these special courses are organized in response to special needs or interests of students on campus, in the community and in the region. Some topics are announced in the Schedule of Classes; some are added during the semester. Further information and a full' listing of topics may be obtained from the School office, 301 Sprau Tower. Six hours of COM 305 and COM 505 approved by an advisor may be accumulated as credit toward a major or minor in communication.


COM 506 Special Topics in Telecommunications

3 hrs.

Study of special topics in telecommunications management, law and policy, and technology. Prerequisites: COM 240 and junior or senior standing; or graduate standing.


COM 507 Freedom of Expression

3 hrs.

The tradition and justifications for freedom of expression are explored and applied to contemporary concerns facing interpersonal,' organizational, and mass media-based communication. Beginning with the historical roots of freedom of expression, students will trace the rise of modern First Amendment rights, through careful case analysis. Topics to be investigated include free expression on the Internet and in the mass media, hate speech, speech codes, sexual harassment, freedom of expression in the workplace, corporate free speech rights and other topical free speech issues. Prerequisite: Junior, Senior, or · Graduate standing.


COM 541 Telecommunications Law and Policy

3 hrs.

Provides an overview of the essential regulatory and policy issues governing the field of telecommunications. Special attention is given to such topics as libel, privacy, access and right to reply, and copyright. A case study approach is used for the purpose of understanding legal precedent. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing and COM 200; or graduate standing.


COM 551 Methods of Media Analysis

3 hrs.

An investigation of the approaches to media analysis (auteurist, intentionalist, sociological, structural, historical, ideological, psychological) by intensive "reading" and shot sequence examination and evaluation of widely divergent works. $12.00 lab fee. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing and COM 241 or COM 356; or graduate standing.


COM 554 Communication Technology

3 hrs.

This course provides and overview of telecommunications technology and services. The course is intended for the manager who requires a "practical" understanding of the design and performance characteristics of such telecommunication technology as satellite, optical fiber, PBX, and cellular telephone communications. In addition this course will include an appropriate measure of economic, regulatory, and policy issues as they pertain to the development of new and enhanced telecommunication services. Prerequisite: Junior or senior standing and COM 240; or graduate standing.


COM 564 Telecommunication Networks

3 hrs.

This course provides an overview of telecommunications networking technologies, standards, and protocols. Network configurations, switching technologies and signaling standards that sustain voice and data communications networks, corporate networks, and advanced intelligent networks are major sections of the course. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing and COM 240, or Graduate standing.

 

 

 

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School of Communication, Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Phone: (269) 387-3130 Fax: (269) 387-3990 Email: amy.manchester@wmich.edu
Last updated on: November 19, 2003