Speech & Communications

GCAN 127 Fundamentals of Speech II (ESL)* (3 Credits)

Confirming and refining spoken English fluency is the goal of this course. Vocabulary building and clear English articulation continue to be standards of the course as students refine their oral English skills. Organization and outlining are important elements as students present various informative and persuasive speeches in impromptu discussion and extemporaneous formats. Frequent practice is designed to increase general poise and self-confidence. *satisfies Speech Core Requirement

GCAN 129 Speech Workshop II (ESL) (1 Credits)

This co-requisite of GCA 127 focuses on the individual needs of students in developing communication competencies.

GCAN 100 Survey of Human Communication* (3 Credits)

A study of oral communication skills most frequently used in the professions, business and industry as well as our daily lives. Exploration of the purpose of stage fright, the value of listening, the impact of verbal languages on conversation, the use of the telephone, interviewing, group discussion and meeting, impromptu speaking and presentations. *satisfies Speech Core Requirement

GCAN 101 Public Speaking* (3 Credits)

Effectiveness in public speaking is vital for students who wish to achieve prominence in their chosen field. Intensive study of the preparation and delivery of various forms of public speaking. Continued focus on oral fluency and clarity of articulation. Skills include audience analysis, the development of ideas, organization and outlining, unity and coherence of speaking through impromptu, informative, demonstration and persuasive speaking assignments. Required of Education majors. *satisfies Speech Core Requirement

GCAN 102 Public Speaking Workshop (1 Credits)

This co-requisite of GCA 101 focuses on the individual needs of students in developing the communication competencies.

GCAN 103 Communication Workshop (1 Credits)

This co-requisite of GCA 100 focuses on the individual needs of students in developing the communication competencies.

GCAN 121 Ethics in Communication (3 Credits)

Human beings are faced daily with decisions about the rightness and/or wrongness of their actions. Many make decisions without an ethical yardstick. This course focuses on analysis of classical and modern views of ethics and their relation to written and oral communication. Evaluation of contemporary standards and practices in the media (newspapers, magazines, radio, television, online), politics, the arts (theatre and film), the legal system, sales and advertising, the pulpit and classroom.

GCAN 201 Persuasion and Propaganda (3 Credits)

We are assaulted daily by billions of stimuli. Often we are not aware of how we are influenced. This course analyzes how visual, kinetic and verbal/non-verbal strategies and techniques are used in the media, advertising, sales, politics, etc. to influence public opinion and to sell ideas, products, people and politicians. Exploration of the differences between persuasion and propaganda, the power of emotion, flattery, the group mind, the impact of mythology and hero-worship, stereotyping and scapegoating, suggestion and concealment.

GCAN 204 Oral Interpretation of Literature (3 Credits)

A consideration of the artistic standards governing the understanding and appreciation of literature as it is communicated orally. Techniques in ascertaining the purpose, ideas, and moods of the author.

GCAN 205 Discussion and Meeting Dynamics (3 Credits)

Meetings and discussion are the principal means by which business and professionals arrive at decisions. How they are conducted affects the outcome. A comprehensive study of the principles methods of discussion and the impact on group dynamics on meetings of all kinds. Topic includes preparation for presentations to small groups. Listening, non-verbal communication, proxemics, Robert's Rules of Order, conflict resolution and negotiation.

GCAN 210 Survey of Speech Disorders (3 Credits)

A review of the major types of speech disorders. Emphasis is placed on recognition and referral of disorders such as articulation, stuttering, voice disorders and aphasia. Ten observation hours n a school or hospital setting are required. Recommended for Education and Health/Human Services majors.

GCAN 215 Interpersonal Communication* (3 Credits)

Much of the pain and confusion that result from misunderstandings can be avoided through a more complete awareness of the process of communication. The ability to communicate effectively is determined by self-concept and by sensitivity to and understanding of others. verbal and non-verbal behavior. Includes elements of how people use communication to relate to each other: self-concept, needs, power, emotions, general, cultural values, conflicts and communication competence. Dialogues and role plays between client/case worker, teacher/pupil, parent/child are analyzed. Required for Human Services majors. *satisfies Speech Core Requirement

GCAN 217 Introduction to Public Relations (3 Credits)

This course provides an overview of the functions, practices, and use of public relations in the professional workplace. It provides preparations for entry into the public relations profession. Issue analysis, press releases, press kits, brochures, newsletters, and public relations planning are covered. Communication theories and applications are covered.

Prerequisite: GCA 101, GLL 122, and departmental approval.

GCAN 218 Dispute Resolution (3 Credits)

This course is designed to provide an introduction to the field of dispute resolution. Key theories and approaches to peaceful dispute resolution, including negotiation, litigation, arbitration, mediation, and mediation-arbitration, will be explained and discussed. Students engage in mediation and arbitration of disputes. Each student prepares mediation agreements and arbitration awards.

Prerequisite: GCA 217 or departmental approval.

GCAN 219 Non-Profit Communication and Management (3 Credits)

Communication and management in non-profit institutions are not the same as in profit-oriented firms. The materials, language and publics have different expectations that require approaches to them that entail the acquisition of specialized written, research, and analytic communication knowledge and skills. This course addresses the communication environment and publics of nonprofits and key writing skills needed for professionals in this career area: analyses, reports, and funding proposals for businesses, foundations, and individuals.

Prerequisite: Departmental approval

GCAN 220 Communication and Public Policy (3 Credits)

This course is designed to introduce communication techniques for specific workspaces. Upon the completion of the course students will be able to effectively communicate in the workplace, use professional language and etiquette and use technology specific to certain work environments

GCAN 222 Customer-Service Management Communication (3 Credits)

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of principles and practices in effective customer-service management communication. The focus is on writing, speaking, information literacy, and non-verbal communication in business settings. Students learn about communication frameworks that include customer service policy formation, customer service in organizational/institutional planning, marketing, and profitability. Students analyze complex customer service issues and problems and make logical and sensitive written and oral presentations.

Prerequisite: GCA 217 or departmental approval.

GCAN 301 Commercial Advertising (3 Credits)

Principles and practices in media advertising. Intensive exercises in the preparation and editing of copy and formats.

GCAN 302 Community Journalism (3 Credits)

Principles and practices in the writing, editing, and publishing of community newsletters, journals, and other periodicals. Preparation of news releases, feature stories, and editorial writing. Techniques of securing and disseminating information.

GCAN 305 Intercultural Communications (3 Credits)

Culture is communication. It is the way we organize our lives and interactions. This course is designed to explore ways that verbal and nonverbal communication occurs in various cultures in workplace, management, marketing, social, and other interactions. Recognizing globalization and our increasingly multicultural society, the aim of the course is to develop culturally fluent persons.

Prerequisite: GCA 217 or departmental approval.

GCAN 306 Event Management (3 Credits)

This course is directed to those preparing for careers in the private or public sector in which the planning and implementation of events, seminars, programs, promotions (such as fund-raising), and conferences are occasional or frequent responsibilities. The focus of this course is the development of analytical and planning skills and the social, cultural, and psychological context in which these are used in communication. Students learn to do various types of research used in communication, to prepare basic budgets, and to work as part of a communication team.

GCAN 312 Debate and Rhetoric (Upon Request) (3 Credits)

Debate is intellectual combat. The debate process teaches critical thinking automatically. Debate trains the mind to strategize, analyze and research all sides of an issue as well as organize and present a cogent understanding of one side of a position. The ability to argue and defend a position while knowing the strengths and weaknesses of all sides is the best kind of preparation for the professions as well as daily life.

GCAN 320 Professional Business Communication (3 Credits)

This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of principles and practices in effective business communication. The focus is on writing, speaking, information literacy, visual/graphic arts, and non-verbal communication in business settings. Students learn about business communication frameworks that include business plans, business proposals, reports, business studies, graphic aids, and oral presentations. Students learn to organize their thoughts logically, to analyze complex issues and problems, and to present points of view.

Prerequisite: GCA 217 or departmental approval.

GCAN 350 Managerial Communication (3 Credits)

The purpose of this course is to improve the ability of prospective managers to communicate effectively within organizations and with external publics. Students, individually and in teams, make oral presentations about case studies and problems. Students analyze research and compose various types of business and professional reports and materials. Students learn how to identify barriers to communication and methods to overcome them.

Prerequisite: GLL 122 and departmental approval.

GCAN 481/482 Independent Study (TBA Credits)

Prerequisite: Departmental approval.

GCAN 494 Internship in Communication (3 Credits)

Students work in a Communication capacity in a business or organization related to communication to gain practical experience in the field. Performance is assessed by the site supervisor and a department faculty member. A weekly journal is required. May be taken twice with two different organizations.

Prerequisite: GCA 100 and permission of the Department Chair.

ESL Courses
Courses for Native Speakers of English