Introduction to Communication Theory - CST 201
https://courses.vccs.edu./courses/CST201-IntroductiontoCommunicationTheory
Effective: 2024-05-01
Course Description
Introduces the field of communication, emphasizing perspectives on theory and research, topical areas within the discipline, basic research methodologies, and a survey of theories in those areas. Covers basic procedures for theory-building, research, and writing about communication.
Lecture 3 hours. Total 3 hours per week.
3 credits
The course outline below was developed as part of a statewide standardization process.
General Course Purpose
CST 201 provides students with an overview of communication studies as an academic discipline through a survey of foundational theories in the field, an introduction to communication scholarship, and provides a gateway for students to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate program in communication.
Course Prerequisites/Corequisites
Prerequisite: CST 100 or CST 110
Course Objectives
- Critical Thinking
- Distinguish between various approaches to communication theory and assess their usefulness.
- Explain practical ways communication theory can be applied to everyday life interactions with others.
- Written Communication
- Effectively synthesize course material through written communication.
Major Topics to be Included
- Overview of Communication Theory Development
- Define and describe communication studies as an academic discipline, outlining its historical development, cultural significance, and relevance in modern society.
- Identify and analyze key foundational theories in the field of communication studies.
- Address the philosophical assumptions behind these theoretical traditions within communication theory.
- Ethics and integrity
- Explain the ethical considerations and responsibilities associated with conducting communication research.
- Engage in discussions about communication-related topics, respecting diverse perspectives and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
- Identify and describe various frameworks for organizing communication theories and discuss the ethical implications of those frameworks.
- Evaluation of Communication Theory
- Evaluate communication scholarship to identify strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in the existing literature.
- Identify and explain methodologies commonly used in communication theory development.
- Application of communication theory to practice
- Apply communication theories, demonstrating an understanding of how these theories shape human communication.
- Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present ideas with clarity.
- Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing and synthesizing complex communication theories applying them to real-world contexts.