20810205Small Group and Interpersonal Communication
Course Information
Description
Introduces students to the principles, practices, theories and concepts of small group and interpersonal communication. The course presents principles to help students develop appropriate and effective communication strategies in one-to-one and small group communication settings. Theory and practice are combined to aid students in developing an awareness of group dynamics and the employment of small groups in the process of information-seeking and problem-solving.
Total Credits
3
Course Competencies
  1. Analyze theories of small group and interpersonal communication
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, written, graphic and/or skill assessment
    Criteria
    Analysis describes theories of small group and interpersonal communication
    Analysis connects self-identity within small group contexts
    Analysis applies theoretical concepts to real-life scenarios
    Analysis synthesizes and evaluates communication strategies and processes in interpersonal and small group settings

  2. Develop effective interpersonal communication strategies
    Assessment Strategies
    Group project, presentation and/or written assessment
    Criteria
    Analysis examines the role of culture and cultural perception in interactions
    Analysis identifies fundamental interpersonal communication processes, including models of communication language, nonverbal communication, and listening
    Analysis examines interpersonal relationships form and are maintained
    Analysis applies decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution strategies in interpersonal communication
    Analysis demonstrates deeper awareness of self and personal identity within diverse groups, considering socio-historical privilege, implicit bias, and microaggressions
    Materials demonstrate appropriate use of inclusive language, avoids the use of alienating language, and includes images reflecting diverse identities and cultures

  3. Develop effective communication strategies for small groups
    Assessment Strategies
    Group project, presentation and/or written assessment
    Criteria
    Analysis defines small group communication
    Analysis differentiates between group discussion and public communication
    Analysis examines the role of culture and cultural perception in small group communication
    Analysis identifies stages of group development and components of goal achievement
    Analysis identifies key elements of individual roles in small groups
    Analysis identifies synergy, norms, climate, cohesion, and interdependence
    Analysis applies decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution strategies in small group communication
    Analysis incorporates evidence to explain small group culture and systems
    Analysis examines the impact of race, gender, age, socioeconomics, and physical/mental ability on small group communication
    Curriculum materials use inclusive language and includes images to reflect diversity of identities and cultures, including underrepresented populations

  4. Examine the influence of diversity on small group communication
    Assessment Strategies
    Group project, presentation and/or written assessment
    Criteria
    Identify diverse characteristics that impact small group communication including race, ethnicity, gender identity, age, sexual identity, physical or mental ability
    Identify cultural differences, including race, gender, age, sexual identity, physical or mental ability, in small groups
    Adapts and engages with diverse group members by understanding and respecting differences in personality, culture, age, sexuality, gender, and religions
    Analysis demonstrates intercultural communication skills and inclusive language

  5. Implement research and evaluation practices
    Assessment Strategies
    Oral, written, graphic and/or skill assessment
    Criteria
    Develop an original research question grounded in small group and/or interpersonal communication
    Collaborate to develop research plan and design
    Research explores potential influence of socio-historical inequalities and/or under-representations of cultures including immigrant experiences, language diversity, and global perspectives on race, ethnicity, and legacies of colonialism
    Analysis is developed through a literary review of peer reviewed scholarly texts
    Research identifies and evaluates data and evidence
    Collaborative material demonstrates ethical research and presentation