Catalog Description

Formerly known as BUS 85
Advisory: Completion of ENGL N or equivalent with grade of "C" or better or placement by matriculation assessment process recommended
Hours: 54 lecture
Description: Introduction to oral communication focuses on the basic foundations of interpersonal communication, small group communication, and public speaking. Students will be introduced to the breadth of the communication discipline. Examine and practice human communication principles and theories to develop critical thinking and communication competencies in a variety of contexts, including personal, professional, intercultural, computer-mediated, and family interactions. (C-ID COMM 115) (CSU, UC)

Course Student Learning Outcomes

  • CSLO #1: Demonstrate intrapersonal and interpersonal concepts of perception, self-concept, nonverbal/verbal communication, listening, and conflict management.
  • CSLO #2: Analyze and apply principles of symbolic interaction to demonstrate an understanding of how meaning is created, shared and negotiated within interpersonal, group, and public communication settings.
  • CSLO #3: Demonstrate effective group communication skills in areas of leadership communication, problem-solving, role orientation, conflict strategies, and managing group dynamics to achieve group goals.
  • CSLO #4: Research, organize, deliver and evaluate informative and persuasive public speeches.
  • CSLO #5: Develop the ability to communicate ethically and effectively across various contexts.

Effective Term

Fall 2025

Course Type

Credit - Degree-applicable

Contact Hours

54

Outside of Class Hours

108

Total Student Learning Hours

162

Course Objectives

  1. Explain fundamental communication principles, including perception, symbolic interaction, and self-concept.

  2. Apply verbal and nonverbal communication strategies effectively in interpersonal, group, and public communication contexts.

  3. Demonstrate active listening and responding techniques to enhance communication competence.

  4. Identify and address barriers to effective communication in various personal, professional, and cultural settings.

  5. Analyze ethical considerations in communication, including issues related to diversity, persuasion, and media influence.

  6. Apply interpersonal communication theories to develop and maintain personal, professional, and intercultural relationships.

  7. Engage in small group discussions and problem-solving activities, demonstrating effective leadership, role orientation, and decision-making skills.

  8. Identify and manage interpersonal and group conflict using appropriate communication strategies.

  9. Evaluate cultural influences on communication and develop strategies for intercultural competence and inclusion.

  10. Research, analyze, and organize information to create structured and compelling speeches and presentations.

  11. Develop informative and persuasive speeches using credible sources, sound arguments, and effective delivery techniques.

  12. Construct and critique arguments by evaluating claims, evidence, reasoning, and potential biases.

  13. Assess the effectiveness of public speaking performances in terms of content, structure, delivery, and audience adaptation.

  14. Utilize diagnostic tools and feedback to enhance communication effectiveness in various contexts.

  15. Prepare and conduct interviews, applying effective questioning and responding techniques.

  16. Analyze the role of communication in shaping individual identity, relationships, and organizational culture.

  17. Use communication technologies responsibly and effectively in computer-mediated interactions.

  18. Recognize and address communication apprehension to enhance confidence in public and interpersonal communication.

  19. Demonstrate professionalism and ethical responsibility in diverse communication settings.

  20. Deliver public addresses to a live audience using a variety of delivery methods, including manuscript, impromptu, memorized, and extemporaneous speaking styles.

General Education Information

  • Approved College Associate Degree GE Applicability
    • AA/AS - Oral Communication
    • AA/AS - Comm & Analyt Thinking
    • AA/AS - Oral Comm Skills
  • CSU GE Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU approval)
    • CSUGE - A1 Oral Communication
  • Cal-GETC Applicability (Recommended - Requires External Approval)
    • Cal-GETC 1C - Oral Communication
  • IGETC Applicability (Recommended-requires CSU/UC approval)

    Articulation Information

    • CSU Transferable
    • UC Transferable

    Methods of Evaluation

    • Classroom Discussions
      • Example: End of class Quick poll/student quiz using a polling software that allows instructor to deliver a formative assessment and provide student feedback in real time. For example, which approach to conflict is least cooperative and most assertive?
    • Essay Examinations
      • Example: Sample essay exam question: Identify techniques to overcome communication apprehension. Questions will be evaluated using a grading scale that demonstrates the degrees of appropriateness and accuracy.
    • Skill Demonstrations
      • Example: Research, prepare and deliver a microlearning presentation on a communication topic in front of a live audience. Students will be assessed using a rubric that focuses on Content, Delivery, Visual Aids and Structure.

    Repeatable

    No

    Methods of Instruction

    • Lecture/Discussion
    • Distance Learning

    Lecture:

    1. Instructor facilitates student learning by engaging students in class question-and-answer sessions based on textbook readings where they apply oral communication concepts to business situations. For example- After defining paraphrasing, students apply paraphrasing content, intent and feelings in a role play activity. (Objective 3)
    2. Instructor presents video selections of workplace interview behavior for student analysis. Instructor explains tips to improve interviewing techniques for both interviewer and interviewee. Students role play and practice skills. (Objective 6)

    Distance Learning

    1. Instructor presents lecture on storytelling using PowerPoint Slides and TED Talk speaker examples. Students participate in story telling activity to build speaking skills. (Objective 9)

    Typical Out of Class Assignments

    Reading Assignments

    1. Read the chapter on verbal and non-verbal communication and discuss findings orally. In pairs, practice identifying non-verbal communication under the category of paralanguage. 2. Read a business-communication article about mindfulness and organizational culture. Outline the big ideas and share with the class. Brainstorm ways to implement where you work. 3. Read the textbook section on the Johari Window and associated articles, use the reflection template to complete your response to the reading. 4. Read the transcript and watch Baratunde Thurston's TED Talk and identify the different types of information he uses to make his speech interesting.

    Writing, Problem Solving or Performance

    1. Prepare and deliver an elevator pitch for an interviewing assignment. Participants will role-play in a live mock interview. 2. Use the PREP model to organize ideas and deliver a short speech about your culture. 3. Deliver oral presentations in front of a live audience using visual aids.

    Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.)

    Summative Assessments: 1. Students will prepare a Who Am I Speech that uses personal reflection and application of intra/interpersonal, and group communication concepts. 2. Students conduct a group audit to diagnose team problems and recommend solutions. 3. Students prepare a microlearning training presentation to teach the audience about a communication concept. This speech is delivered in front of a live audience. 4. Students will research, prepare, and deliver a persuasive presentation advocating for a workplace intervention or change.

    Required Materials

    • Communicate
      • Author: Kathleen Verderber
      • Publisher: Cengage
      • Publication Date: 2024
      • Text Edition: 16th
      • Classic Textbook?: No
      • OER Link:
      • OER:
    • Communication in the Real World
      • Author: University of Minnesota
      • Publisher: University of Minnesota
      • Publication Date: 2016
      • Text Edition: OER
      • Classic Textbook?: No
      • OER Link:
      • OER: https://open.umn.edu/opentextbooks/textbooks/274
    • Exploring Public Speaking
      • Author: Barbara Tucker
      • Publisher: University of Georgia
      • Publication Date: 2019
      • Text Edition:
      • Classic Textbook?:
      • OER Link:
      • OER: oer.galileo.usg.edu

    Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.