Principles and Practice of Communication

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Principles and Practice of Communication (COM101)

Synopsis

Human Communication, the most commonplace activity of our lives, is so intertwined with human life that we often take for granted its importance and complexity. Communication is central to human life as every aspect of our daily life is affected by our communication with others and by messages from people we don’t even know. This course enables students to better understand this universal phenomenon called communication by addressing the complexities involved in a systematic way. The course also provides students with a set of tools for seeing the everyday processes and experiences of communication through new lenses.

Level: 1
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY REGULAR SEMESTER
E-Learning: BLENDED - Learning is done MAINLY online using interactive study materials in Canvas. Students receive guidance and support from online instructors via discussion forums and emails. This is supplemented with SOME face-to-face sessions. If the course has an exam component, this will be administered on-campus.

Topics

Introduction to Human Communication
Exploring the Communication Process
Verbal Communication
Types of Non-Verbal Communication
Using Effective Non-Verbal Communication
Relationship between Self and Communication
Process of Listening
Effective Listening
Groups as structured open system
Developing Group Diversity and Intercultural group Communication
Symptoms of Group Think
Understanding Conflicts
Managing Conflicts in the small group
Decision Making and Leadership in Groups
Defining Leadership
Applying leadership principles
Encouraging distributed leadership

Learning Outcome

Define the communication process
Explain how perception affects communication with others
Identify the trends in communication technology
Discuss groupthink and its symptoms
Apply conflict management skills
Employ effective listening skills