GEN 402: Communication
Explore the application of communication theory
Engage in the process of examining, analyzing, summarizing, and evaluating communication strategies and theories. Students will demonstrate how to apply various communication principles through speech, including the consideration of the communication process, receiver perceptions, and verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as listening. The theory of communication will be explored in regard to engaging small groups, the public, and a variety of organizational contexts. A broad range of communication venues and considerations will be evaluated including interviewing, mass media, the use of new technologies, the influence of relationships, body language, intercultural perspectives and gender, as well as how to address conflict and negotiations.
About This Course
Project-Based Learning
In this course, students will develop their communication skills and their understanding of modern communications theory, through practical projects. For their course assignments students will develop a communications strategy, a motivational video, deliver a speech, prepare for an interview, develop cultural messaging, and practice conflict resolution. Students will also participate in fun, mind-expanding discussions on communications issues.
What Skills Will I Develop?
Students in this course can expect to learn to:
- Examine, analyze, summarize, and evaluate communication strategies and theories.
- Demonstrate, apply, and present various communication principles through speech, including the consideration of the communication process, receiver perceptions, and verbal and nonverbal communication, as well as listening.
- Research and convey communication concepts and considerations when engaging with small groups, the public, and within a variety of organizational contexts.
- Explore and evaluate the impact of communication and messaging through interviews, mass media, and the use of new technologies.
- Assess and examine communication and how it is influenced by perceptions, biases, interpersonal relationships, body language, culture, and gender.
- Formulate and present content related to communicating when addressing conflict and during negotiations.
What Software and Supplies Do I Need?
- Computer with Internet connection.
- Adobe Photoshop CC or Adobe Illustrator CC.
Course Instructor(s)
The course is taught by the following instructor(s):
Kristen Becker
Kristen Becker is an educator and a graphic and business designer specializing in e-commerce. With over 12 years of experience as an award-winning educator, Kristen has developed curriculum and taught courses in graphic design, multimedia, and e-commerce/marketing.
Course Outline
Communication Strategies and Theory
Communication strategies, theories, and models are not just academic theories; they provide templates for effective communication that are used by marketers, advertisers, and broadcasters. We will begin the course by discussing how they are utilized.
Using Communication Skills and Principles to Enhance Your Speaking Ability
Speaking is important in any professional setting. In this section, we will discuss how to use verbal and non-verbal communication, including body language and signage, to help you increase the relevance and persuasiveness of your communication.
Communication Principles for Effective Public Speaking
Most creative professionals work in teams to achieve their goals. In this section, we'll explore tips and tricks for communication with groups and crowds.
Different Forms of Communication
Throughout history, forms of communication have changed as new technologies and platforms have emerged. To address these opportunities, we'll survey techniques for other forms of communication, including interviews, mass media, and new social media technologies.
How Communication is Influenced by Perceptions and Biases
We'll take a close look at how our communication is influenced by perceptions, biases, interpersonal relationships, body language, culture, and gender—and we'll also discuss how to acknowledge and work through our default biases.
Best Practices for Negotiations and Addressing Conflict
One common goal of communication is to achieve not just understanding but also harmony and consensus. In this section, we'll strategize on how to apply communication best practices for negotiations and address conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do The Courses Work?
Our courses are project-based and instructor-led. In each course you’ll complete a series of lectures, projects, discussions, and critiques designed to stretch your creative skills. Weekly assignment deadlines keep you on track, so you can build your studies around your schedule. Two live Zoom meetings in this course provide the opportunity to work 1to1 with your instructor.
Who Are The Instructors?
Our courses are developed and taught by our industry-leading faculty of creative professionals. This means that you’ll learn in-demand skills, get feedback on your work, and build a portfolio of creative work. View our Student Gallery for featured student projects.
When Can I Start?
Classes start January, April, and August, and this course is completed in a 15-week term. This course is part of a Bachelor's Degree program at Sessions College. You can enroll in this course on an individual basis or as part of a program.
How Do I Register?
To register for a program, complete our program application. To register for this course on an individual basis, please contact our admissions team at admissions@sessions.edu. An Admissions Advisor will contact you to setup your enrollment.
| Course Tuition and Fees | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $300/credit |
| Registration Fee* | $200 |
| Total Course Price | $1100 |
Registration fees are nonrefundable after 5 days from enrollment.
Is Sessions College Accredited?
Yes. Since 2001, Sessions College has been accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).