71.105 Foundations of Communication
An introduction to the theories of communication as they
apply to speech and media. This course explores various communication
models and their applications to communication interactions. Intended and
interpreted meanings in speech and media are studied from different
perspectives, including semiotics, aesthetics, ethics, and persuasion.
71.107 Effective Speaking (Gen.Ed. Goal 5)
An application of principles of speech and language in
oral communication. Students practice different types of
speech-communication situations and analyze their speaking and language
skills. The course incorporates written critiques and may include
video-taping of oral presentations and panel discussions. This course is
required of English majors minoring in Secondary Education. Note: Credit
will not be given for both 71.107 Effective Speaking and 71.111 Speech and
Language Communication (offered prior to Fall 1992).
71.110 Introduction to Visual Communication
An introduction to ways visual media are used as
communication tools in contemporary society. Students are introduced to
design fundamentals, graphic illustrations, photography, typography,
political cartoons, advertisements, and multimedia both in print and on
screen. Daily newspapers, weekly magazines, museum collections, and the
Internet are used as the primary text.
71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
An introduction to the theories and practice of human
communication in interpersonal, small group, and public communication
situations. Students apply principles of communication to the content and
delivery of messages in a variety of speaking and listening situations.
Note: Students may not receive credit for both 71.115 Introduction to
Speech Communication and either 71.105 Foundations of Communication or
71.107 Effective Speaking.
71.200 Introduction to Computer Graphic Design
An introduction to the computer as a tool for creating
graphic design. This class focuses on developing students’ computer
skills, including basic design issues. Computer terminology is covered in
detail; afterwards students are introduced to a variety of software
programs currently used by professionals in the graphic design and
advertising industry.
Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.
71.201 Oral Interpretation of Literature (Gen.Ed. Goal 5)
A study of literature as a speech art emphasizing the
reader's response to the meaning of the spoken word within different
literary works, practice in and evaluation of reading aloud, storytelling,
and choral speaking. Selections from prose, fiction, and drama are
studied.
71.205 Small Group Communication
An exploration of the theories, concepts and skills that
improve speech communication in group contexts. Leadership and group
skills are developed through practical application (group work) aimed at
accomplishing shared tasks and facilitating positive interaction. Students
study the principles of group dynamics, decision-making, problem solving,
interpersonal conflict, consensus, leadership and team building. The
course incorporates elements of conflict management and also emphasizes
issues relevant to membership diversity. Students have the opportunity to
evaluate group members’ interactions critically and constructively.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
or 71.105 Foundations of Communication or 71.107 Effective Speaking, or
permission of the instructor.
71.207 Interpersonal Dialogue
A course that fosters a broad level of awareness in regard
to interpersonal communication. While it does not offer a formula for
interpersonal success, it invites the student to ask questions about the
primary issue of the "other" and how the "other" necessarily affects the
"self." In so doing, the course centers on issues such as self-awareness,
self-disclosure, nonverbal communication, listening, authenticity, power,
and conflict. Students become aware of the speech communication processes
that both disintegrate and nurture the dyadic human relationship.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
or 71.105 Foundations of Communication, or permission of instructor.
71.208 Basic Photography (Gen.Ed. Goal 5)
The exploration of the discipline as an aesthetic medium,
a documentary mode of communication, and a vehicle for personal
expression. Students are expected to achieve basic technical competence in
the practice of black and white photography, while also increasing their
aesthetic expertise. At the end of the semester each student submits a
portfolio of photographs. Students are also introduced to historical
traditions of the medium through slide lectures, films, and gallery/museum
visits.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communications or
71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication or permission of the
instructor.
71.210 History of Photography (Gen.Ed Goal 5)
A course which traces the development of the medium from
its inception in 1839 to the present. The growth of photography is related
to the other major visual arts and communication movements of the
nineteenth and twentieth century. Form, content, philosophy, and technique
are discussed and analyzed in slide lectures and reading assignments. Each
student completes a major independent research project on a particular
photographer, group of photographers, or style of work.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communications or
71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication or permission of the
instructor.
71.212 Drama Workshop (Gen.Ed. Goal 5)
A study of playmaking and production. Special attention is
given to spoken drama and translation of the play into performance. This
course provides students with the criteria for the selection of a play to
be performed. Each student participates in acting, directing, and
production-related experiences. There may be opportunity for trips to
theaters and for private and/or public presentations.
71.213 Advanced Public Speaking
An application of the principles of speech and language in
the delivery of speeches to larger audiences. The class emphasizes
organizational techniques, language adaptation, audience analysis and
clarity of expression. Students learn the distinctions between preparation
and practice of the four major categories of public discourse:
informative, deliberative, forensic and epideictic. Oratory skill,
confidence, and fluency in speech are primary focal points of this course.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
or 71.107 Effective Speaking, or permission of instructor.
71.218 Sound Design for Visual Media
An exploration of the relationship between sound and
image, with an emphasis on both the theoretical and practical approaches
to creating sound design. Working in relation to an overview of the
history of sound recording and arranging, the course examines the
aesthetic and technical issues of incorporating the elements of sound
design into all phases of moving image production. Students listen to,
think about, and discuss a variety of sound recordings, films, television
and radio programs. These approaches are reinforced in a series of
exercises in which students record, edit, and mix sound for moving images.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communications or
71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication or permission of the
instructor.
71.220 Principles of Mass Communication
A study of the various infrastructures of mass media
systems from national and global perspectives. Current trends and
philosophies are discussed from the perspectives of history, culture, and
social responsibility. Each student researches and discusses major
problems and issues in mass communication.
71.225 Multimedia Design
The study and use of a variety of software programs in the
creation of animation and multimedia. Projects include traditional and
digital animation and the development of interactive multimedia on the
computer. Students develop skills with manipulating still and moving
images, flowcharting, storyboarding, and scripting. Note: Credit will not
be given for both this course and 71.225 Digital Design.
Prerequisite: 71.200 Introduction to Computer Graphic
Design, or 11.404 Graphic Design II, or permission of the instructor.
71.226 Writing for Visual Media
A study and practice of writing for all forms of digital
and electronic mass communication. Students study various approaches to,
and formats and techniques for, writing for the Internet, broadcast news,
public and media relations, commercials, comedy, and drama. Using
theoretical models and case studies, students develop unique and creative
solutions for a variety of "real-world" writing and communication
problems.
Prerequisites: 71.105 Foundations of Communication or
permission of instructor, and 21.110 Expository Writing.
71.245 Cultural Aspects of Media Representation (Gen.Ed.
Goal 12)
An investigation of media-constructed images of race,
ethnicity, gender, and sexual orientation in the United States. After an
initial background study of constitutional guarantees of free speech,
students articulate responses to a variety of contemporary issues relating
to the role and responsibility of media in representing society's diverse
voices and in shaping an American cultural identity. Credit will not be
given for this course and 71.133 Media and Multiculturalism.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communication.
71.250 Media/Society/Self
A study of the impact of popular culture upon contemporary
society. Students examine the historical interplay of influences between
the mass media and society. The effects of the mass media are critically
evaluated within the context of media arts, advertising, politics, public
relations, and news.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
or 71.105 Foundations of Communication, or permission of instructor.
71.255 Special Topics in Communication Arts
An in-depth examination of a current communication issue
with particular emphasis on the contributions of recent research. Each
student completes an assigned research project. Topic and instructor are
announced each year.
Prerequisite: 71.250 Media/Society/Self and permission of
the chair.
71.260 Voice and Articulation
A study of vocal sound including the clarity and accuracy
of articulation in the normal speaking voice. Students perform exercises
to improve breath control, projection, and the variables of volume, pitch,
quality, and pacing. Phonetic transcription and aspects of dialect and
accent are explored.
71.262 Studio Production I
An introduction to the basic theoretical and experimental
components of visual media production using video and audio technology in
a studio setting. Through creative exercises and in-depth critiques,
students develop fundamental skills in pre-production, production, and
post-production studio recording. The aesthetics, methodology, and
operational techniques of video and audio production are examined through
lectures, demonstrations, field trips, and critical study.
Prerequisite: 71.226 Writing for Visual Media or
permission of instructor.
71.266 Field Production I
An introduction to the basic theoretical and experimental
components of digital video pre-production, production, and
post-production using images and sounds gathered in the field. Through
creative exercises and in-depth critiques, students develop fundamental
skills in planning, scripting, directing, shooting, and editing digital
video productions for a variety of audiences. Emphasis is on acquiring a
balanced understanding of aesthetics and critical thinking skills,
alongside operational techniques and discipline. Guest lecturers,
demonstrations, and field trips supplement the critical study of the area
of the discipline.
Prerequisite: 71.226 Writing for Visual Media or
permission of instructor.
71.270 Introduction to Advertising Techniques
An introduction which examines the fundamental concepts
and techniques of the advertising industry. Emphasis is placed on the
study of the history, aesthetics, and practice of advertising, as well as
its social aspects. Students create and develop their own advertising
presentations.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communication.
71.275 Introduction to Public Relations
A survey of the function and practice of public relations.
The course considers the history, concepts, research methods, and
production processes of the industry. Specific examples and cases are
studied in detail, and students create and develop their own public
relations presentations. Credit will not be given for both this course and
71.241 Public Relations.
Prerequisite: 71.105 Foundations of Communication.
71.280 Introduction to Film Production
A study of the techniques used in visualizing thought and
emotion in the medium of film using the "film short" approach. Students
write scripts, direct actors, and learn lighting, set design, and location
directing, using Black & White 16mm film cameras and portable equipment.
Students are introduced to a wide variety of different visual styles and
creative approaches while developing confidence and competence in the
execution of each phase of production. Students edit their projects on
videotape, using the Department’s non-linear editing systems. Class
critiques of student work, screenings, and optional field trips provide
students with a comprehensive and practical understanding of the
conventions of motion picture production. Students should expect to pay
approximately $150 for film stock and lab costs (including shipping).
Prerequisite: 71.262 Writing for Visual Media.
71.305 Broadcast Studies
A study of the history and social impact of the broadcast
media. Emphasis is on federal regulations, management issues, and
structural design. Each student completes an assigned research project.
Prerequisite: 71.250 Media/Society/Self.
71.308 Media Criticism: Principles and Practice
An advanced course which explores in social, ethical, and
aesthetic terms what it means to take a critical stance toward a variety
of media texts. While a number of critical perspectives and schools of
thought are examined and compared, the course's ultimate objective is the
development and articulation of each student's personal standards
concerning quality and value. Careful reading, watching, and writing is
required, along with active classroom participation.
Prerequisite: 71.250 Media/Society/Self or permission of
instructor.
71.312 Screen and Teleplay Writing
An advanced course that examines the craft and the
business of screen and teleplay writing. The course explores both the
theoretical and the practical perspectives involved in creating,
developing, and marketing scripts based on original ideas or those adapted
from existing stories. Students study classic as well as modern approaches
to the process of writing for film and long-form television. Guest
lecturers, screenings, group discussions and critiques, along with
selected readings supplement the learning process as students progress
toward completion of a semester-long writing project.
Prerequisite: 71.226 Writing for Visual Media or
permission of instructor.
71.314 The Actor’s Resources
An exploration of the physical and emotional resources
that must be developed by the actor for any medium or style of dramatic
expression. Workshops focus on exercises to develop the student’s range of
physical and vocal expression, creative imagination, and ability to
respond to and communicate emotions freely. Readings from the work of
outstanding modern actors and directors, together with class discussions,
provide an intellectual and theoretical framework.
Prerequisite: 71.212 Drama Workshop or permission of the
instructor.
71.315 Color Slide Imagery
A course in the creation and production of photographic
images using color slide film. The focus of this course is on the control
of color design, technical parameters, personal vision, documentary
requirements, and special effects as applied to color slide film. Each
student acquires the ability to select and to critique work based upon a
developed aesthetic of color slide imagery through photography.
Prerequisite: 71.208 Basic Photography and permission of
the instructor.
71.316 Advanced Multimedia Design
An advanced study of interactive digital media. Students
evaluate contemporary trends and production techniques while creating
professional projects on the computer. Students build skills using the
latest technologies and develop stronger aesthetic sensibilities.
Discussion and production of multimedia structural elements,
user-interfaces, scripting, 2-D animation, and digital audio and video are
an integral part of the course. Note: Credit will not be given for both
this course and 71.316 Interactive Digital Media
Prerequisite: 71.225 Multimedia Design.
71.318 Directing for the Stage
An exploration of the principles and practices of stage
direction. Focus is placed on the evolution of the modern stage director
and on current theories of stage direction. Play scripts are analyzed to
identify theme, spine, and style. Classroom exercises provide
opportunities to apply theories of staging to selected scenes from drama.
Prerequisite: 71.212 Drama Workshop or permission of the instructor.
71.322 Persuasion and Social Influence
An advanced study of how people influence each other
through speech and symbolic gestures. Students evaluate the strategies
used to change others’ beliefs, attitudes, values and actions. The course
prepares students to set persuasive goals for a variety of situations and
audiences, generate motivational and logical appeals, and evaluate
persuasive messages in the broader culture. Themes include democratic
persuasion, the challenge of diversity, and social hierarchy.
Controversial topics are selected to reflect persuasive discourses in a
pluralistic society. Other issues investigated include methods through
which one resists another’s attempts to persuade, the distinctions between
choice and coercion, and the ways verbal aggression may facilitate or
disable persuasion. Fear appeals, propaganda, and compliance-gaining
techniques are other areas critically assessed.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication,
or both 71.105 Foundations of Communication and 71.107 Effective Speaking,
or permission of the instructor.
71.328 Argumentation and Advocacy
An introduction to the nature of argument and critical
thinking introduction to the nature of argument and critical thinking,
including methods of analysis, research, critical evaluation of reasoning
and evidence, refutation, debate and advocacy. Students learn how to think
about their positions critically, plan their communicative strategies
effectively and argue their cases forcefully. The course surveys the study
of reasoning, evidence, case construction and effective presentation in
bringing about belief and conviction. These concepts are explored in
detail, often by applying them to various elements of the public sphere
and considering various social and political questions.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication,
or 71.105 Foundations of Communication and 71.107 Effective Speaking, or
permission of instructor.
71.330 Advanced Photography
A study of the philosophies of past and contemporary
photographs as points of reference. Emphasis is on the development of
students’ personal styles and on the refinement of their technical
abilities. Studio lighting and large camera formats are introduced, as
well as other advanced photographic techniques. A portfolio of photographs
demonstrating growth and creative and technical competence are required at
the end of the semester.
Prerequisite: 71.208 Basic Photography or permission of
the instructor.
71.335 Advanced Audio Production
An examination of advanced theories and applications of
sound with emphasis on the utilization of digital production
methodologies. The course surveys a variety of theoretical and conceptual
approaches to the complex interrelationships of sound, as well as its
manipulation in digital media. Students complete a series of successive
exercises as well as a semester-long comprehensive project.
71.338 Advanced Visual Communications
A comprehensive survey in which students examine the
relationships of visual communications to the fine arts and mass
communication. Through a series of thematic projects, students explore in
depth how twentieth century artists, graphic designers, photographers, and
filmmakers appropriate classical motifs and famous images from the past to
visually communicate and comment upon current issues and controversies.
Prerequisite: 71.110 Introduction to Visual Communication,
or any course in the history of art, film or photography at the 200-level
or above.
71.362 Studio Production II
A course in which students develop advanced skills and
explore the techniques, methods, and aesthetics of producing, directing,
and writing for mass audiences using video and audio production technology
in a studio setting. Students are introduced to the process of developing
and executing weekly programming for distribution over campus or community
cable access. Issues involving fairness, ethics, Federal Communications
Commission regulations and community standards are studied and
incorporated into course projects.
Prerequisite: 71.262 Studio Production I or permission of
instructor.
71.366 Field Production II
An advanced course that explores the numerous facets of
writing, directing, and producing non-fiction or fiction videos. Students
conceive an original idea and examine their objectives, conceptual
development, and available resources. Working in teams, they demonstrate
competence in organizing and carrying through the creative and technical
process of non-fiction or fiction video production. Guest lecturers,
demonstrations, and field trips supplement the study of this area of the
discipline.
Prerequisite: 71.266 Field Production I or permission of
instructor.
71.370 The Rhetorical Tradition
An advanced study of the art of speech communication from
the oratory of ancient Greece and Rome to the discursive studies of
postmodern culture. Emphasis is placed on the ways in which beliefs about
language correspond to a culture’s prevailing ideology. Students begin
their study with the teachings of the Greek Sophists in ancient Athens and
the works on rhetoric written by Plato, Aristotle and Isocrates. After
surveying the rhetorical theories of Roman orators such as Cicero and
Quintillian, students explore the trends of rhetorical discourse through
the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Enlightenment. In the latter
section of the course, attention is directed to contemporary authors such
as I.A. Richards, Chaim Perelman, Wayne Booth, Stephen Toulmin, Kenneth
Burke, Michel Foucault and Jacques Derrida. By the end of the course
students have a more sophisticated sense of the significance of rhetoric
in addressing the relationship between speech communication and culture.
Prerequisite: 71.115 Introduction to Speech Communication
or 71.105 Foundations of Communication, or permission of the instructor.
71.450 Seminar in Communication Arts
Designed specifically to allow students to gain further
knowledge in their area of specialization as practiced in business,
industry, and other organizations. Readings raise issues of moral and
social implications of contemporary communication practices. Students
complete a research project within their area of specialization.
Prerequisite: 71.250 Media/Society/Self or permission of
instructor. Open to Majors only.
71.480 Senior Performance Seminar
A course that focuses on a research or creative project.
After students develop a proposal including bibliography and objectives,
they research historical and contemporary works related to their project.
The course culminates in either a research paper, an exhibition or a
performance piece.
Prerequisite: Senior status and permission of the chair.
71.490 Independent Study in Communication Arts
An independent study for Communication Arts majors with a
3.0 average in departmental courses. A written proposal must be submitted
to the faculty member who has agreed to be the supervising instructor. The
student must investigate current research and participate in weekly
conferences. A final written report is reviewed by the entire department.
Majors only. Prerequisite: Junior standing and permission of the
supervising instructor and the chair.
71.495 Internship in Communication Arts
An internship (minimum 160 hours) in a local business,
industry, or organization. Students are expected to be involved in the
organization, administration, and production requirements pertinent to
their area of specialization. Students may earn two (2) course credits,
either in succession, or simultaneously, by arrangement with instructor
and chair. Note: Credit is not given for both this course and 71.496
Practicum Cooperative in Communication Arts. Majors only.
Prerequisite: 71.450 Seminar in Communication Arts and
permission of the chair.
