400

This course launches students into the powerful world of persuasion. Emphasis is on the interdisciplinary generation of persuasion theories from post World War II to the present that empower us to recognize, analyze and evaluate persuasive messages and social influence communication. Students will learn how to increase persuasive appeals through verbal strategies, nonverbal influence, and compliance-gaining that will culminate in a persuasive campaign. 

This course explores principles and structures of argumentation. Students will demonstrate an understanding of argument, disagreement, and dialogue. Assignments and activities include classroom debates and analysis of public policy debates to identify and practice reasoning and refutation.

This class will introduce students to the field of conflict resolution using both theory and through communication skills development.  It will explore the nature of conflict, the reasons why conflict occurs, and conflict resolution strategies. Topics include power dynamics, the role of culture and perception in conflict, conflict management styles, and third-party intervention. The course will challenge students to develop a deeper understanding of conflict and skills to manage conflict through readings, lectures, group discussions, simulated conflict situations, role plays, and critical reflections. 

This course will train students to critically evaluate argument by studying types of argumentation, debate, proof, refutation; and learn the essential skills to prepare, organize and assess persuasive statements. In addition to theory and practical strategy, students will engage in various forms of conflict resolution, as well as mock debates, negotiations, and mediation practices. Students will also gain advanced public speaking skills and learn to critically evaluate arguments in real time.

This Culminating Experience course is designed for students interested in advanced public speaking in the technological context. Students will study the theory and practice of formulating public messages for the technology channel of the communication model and specific attention will be paid to the analysis of the receivers. Moreover, students are asked to utilize the knowledge and skills that they have acquired over the course of their Spartan Studies experiences and within their CSS Major courses. In this interdisciplinary course, students will apply their knowledge of rhetoric, social sciences, and the humanities to demonstrate their growth as a local citizen and a global thought leader. 

An independent study that provides fourth-year students with an opportunity to pursue a topic or project under the guidance of a communication and speech studies faculty member. By permission of instructor and department director.