Course Description: This course is designed to help familiarize students with the kinds of communication behavior commonly occurring within the organizational context, to assist their awareness and understanding of underlying communication processes, and to develop in them the skills needed for effective communication in a variety of organizational settings.  Students in Speech 150 are exposed to theories of organization and management, leadership, learning and persuasion, conflict and group dynamics. The major thrust of the course, however is oriented toward the acquisition of communication skills.  Furthermore, several assignments will require written work  to help students realize the ways in which oral and written communication skills often work in tandem.  Finally, Speech 150 emphasizes the student’s role as thoughtful consumer of communication.  To that end, effective listening and critical thinking are sought in conjunction with each communication activity throughout the course. 

Prerequisites:  Satisfactory completion of the English Placement Process or English 52 or equivalent or Speech 60 or equivalent with a grade of Credit or "C" or higher.

Course Goals: This course is designed . . .
1. Achieve a greater understanding of various factors that influence organizational
    communication including various forms of communication within organizations (e.g.,
    upward, downward, formal, etc.), organizational culture, leadership philosophies,
    organizational ethics, speech making within organizations, dimensions of human
    relations
    in organizations, the fundamentals of interviewing, effective group participation, group
    decision making, problem solving, and conflict management.
2. Enhance one’s ability to speak concisely and coherently during impromptu business
    situations (e.g., meetings, small group discussions, conferences, etc.).
3. Perform effectively during an employment interview.
4. Chair group meetings.
5. Participate effectively in group projects that involve goal setting, planning, and
    presenting organized presentations.
6. Enhance Your ability to speak in front of others.
7. Use technology effectively (i.e., PowerPoint) to enhance oral presentations.

Experiential Learning: This is a skills-based, experiential course.  Experiential learning requires active participation in the class.  To a large extent, you will get out of the class what you put into it.