2010-2011 Undergraduate Bulletin [ARCHIVED BULLETIN]
Speech Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies Courses
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Speech Communication, Rhetoric, and Performance Studies
Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies (SPCM)
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SPCM 1 - (CP) Oral Communication Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
Develop effective communication skills through a variety of communicative experiences
including intrapersonal, interpersonal, interviewing, nonverbal, small group communication,
and public speaking. Theories of communication are explored.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Recommended for all students.
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SPCM 4 - Interpersonal Communication Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
This course provides an examination of concepts and fundamental principles of dyadic communication and develops an appreciation for the ways in which interpersonal relationships develop, endure and deteriorate. Interpersonal interaction in social, professional, and familial contexts and interviewing situations are addressed.
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SPCM 5 - Histories and Theories of Rhetoric Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
This course introduces students to the history of the study of oral public discourse, the development of classical rhetoric, narrative and the performance of classical texts, and the distinction between orality and literacy in the construction of narrative. The course explores the impact of the development of the printing press, publishing and journalism on the construction, dissemination and reception of messages by audiences. Comparisons are made between the various communication contexts and their role in shaping spoken or written rhetorical “texts.”
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
(Formerly SPCM 157, Communication Systems: History and Theories)
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SPCM 7 - (CP) Public Speaking Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
Examination of the theory and practice of public communication. Emphasis on critical
thinking, listening, and the art of criticism. Practice in speech composition
and delivery, stressing principles of clarity, interest, and audience analysis.
Speeches to inform and to persuade are stressed.
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SPCM 9 - Introduction to Performance Studies Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
The techniques of performance as applied to literature and other written and transcribed materials. Consideration is given to investigation and analysis of performed texts. Critical listening is encouraged in the peer evaluation of student performances.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
(Formerly SPCH 21; Interpretive Reading: SPCM 21)
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SPCM 11 - Voice and Diction Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
Exploration of theories of speech and voice production. Students have the opportunity to practice individual patterns of speech and voice. Attention is paid to vocal quality, variety, flexibility, and range. Dialectical variations in speech production are discussed.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Recommended for students interested in improving communicative skills.
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SPCM 24 - Readers’ Theatre Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
An opportunity to stage and perform, in live contexts, all manner of literary genre including prose, poetry, and drama as a stimulant for understanding the literature, developing skills in reading aloud, and adding to the cultural enrichment of both readers and their audiences.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
(Formerly Performance in Context.)
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SPCM 33 - Nonverbal Communication in Human Interaction Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Processes and effects of communicating in nonverbal behavior and message systems
with emphasis on communication by means of body movement (kinesics), spatial relationships
(proxemics) and vocal cues (paralinguistics); by means of touch, physical appearance
and dress, physical behavior and communication through objects. Readings, discussion
and research projects.
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SPCM 43 - Fundamentals of Organizational Communication Semester Hours: 3
Introduces students to the general theories of organizational
communication. Specifically, the course emphasizes the social and
cultural dimensions of communication practices which sustain or
challenge organizational ideas, values and beliefs. The course adopts
an interpretive approach to the study of organizational communication
by considering how stories, myths and narratives are used to create
meaning among members.
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SPCM 53 - Histories and Theories of Gender and Intercultural Communication Semester Hours: 3
This course investigates the histories of the abolitionist and suffrage
movement, to explore ways in which 19th century discourses of race and
gender influenced theories about gender and intercultural
communication. Starting from a historical framework, the course
investigates ways in which current theories of gender and intercultural
communication are imbricated.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
(Formerly Gender and Intercultural Issues in Communication.)
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SPCM 55 - Intercultural Communication Semester Hours: 3
Periodically
This course is an exploration of the interdependent relation of communication and culture. The ways in which culture influences individuals’ strategies for communicating is examined as well as the role of communication in constructing culture. Among the questions we will consider are the following: What is culture? In what sense are people influenced by their culture? What is the relation between culture and identity? How does culture influence the way(s) we make sense of the world, of our relation to each other and, of ourselves? How does culture influence communication? Through a combination of lectures, discussions, and class projects, we will experience and analyze intercultural contact in order to understand the nature of cultural differences and their impact on communication.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
May not be taken on Pass/D+/D/Fail basis.
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SPCM 57 - Gender and Communication Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
Grounded in the fields of communication and cultural studies, this course gives students an understanding of how contemporary genders are discursively constructed in the public sphere. Students will learn how cultural and linguistic negotiations not only determine the meaning of gender, but also influence interactions in private and public. Class materials and case studies will focus on identity-politics, agency, representation and interpretation of gender.
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SPCM 59 - Rhetoric and Popular Culture Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
This course studies the various influences and consequences of language-use in popular culture. Starting from Stuart Hall’s notion of popular culture as a “site of struggle and contestation,” this class studies the rhetorical struggles or communicative negotiations that influence everyday messages in a visual, oral and written form. This class employs rhetorical theory and cultural criticism to analyze and critique communicative messages within various popular texts (e.g., magazines, TV shows, and newspapers). Topics covered will differ by semester and may include sports, music, fashion, TV shows, and advertising.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Sophomore standing or above.
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SPCM 77 - Speechwriting Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
A comprehensive look at the history and current trends in speechwriting in the United States with an emphasis on structure and organization, modes of persuasion and the strategic use of language. Practical applications include performance of noteworthy speeches and both ghostwritten and team written speeches.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
SPCM 7.
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SPCM 78 - Persuasion Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
A study of concepts and theories of communication designed to influence the thoughts and behaviors of others. Focus on persuasive campaigns in political, commercial and social movement contexts.
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SPCM 107 - Argumentation and Debate Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Basics of argumentation; evidence, argument and analysis. Practice in construction
of briefs and in effective oral presentation of logical argument. Emphasis on
critical thinking and examination of current public policy issues.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
One of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 117 - Advanced Public Speaking Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Theory and history of rhetoric; the use of logical, emotional, and ethical appeal;
the psychology of speaker and audience; semantic problems in speaking. Practical
applications include preparation and presentation of impromptu, manuscript, broadcast,
and ceremonial speeches.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
SPCM 7.
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SPCM 119 - Small Group Communication Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Theory and practice of reaching decisions rationally and democratically through
cooperative thinking. For individuals engaged in education, management, public
affairs, labor relations, and other problem-solving and decision-making situations.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
one of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 121 - Advanced Performance Studies Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Group performance of literature, exploration of narrative voice in performance, techniques of audience analysis, scripting, directing and performing for Chamber Theater. Rehearsal hours are required.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
SPCM 9.
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SPCM 124 - Communication, Culture, Healing Semester Hours: 3
Periodically
This class explores experiences and practices of healing as students consider the communication about healing in a variety of cultures. It moves from a concern about cure to a wider consideration of healing contexts. As the students learn that the possibilities of healing are defined by the culture of the healers, the healed, and the audiences to healing, they begin to explore performances of narrative, music, dance, and ritual as healing modalities in a variety of cultures.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
May not be taken on a Pass/D+/D/Fail basis. (Formerly Healing as a Cultural Performance.)
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SPCM 125 - Dramatic Activities in Educational and Therapeutic Settings Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Provides the student teacher/therapist with an opportunity to use the techniques
of role play and improvisation to reinforce a curricular area, encourage social
skills and facilitate communication. Use of dramatic activities as a diagnostic
and therapeutic tool with special populations is explored, as well as the social
value of theater in the classroom.
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SPCM 126 - Performance Art: Theory and Practice Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
This class is devoted to the exploration of performance art, a genre-crossing
form of aesthetic expression. We will identify and examine in detail contemporary
performance practices. We will also cover the historical antecedents of performance
art, including significant events and controversies. In addition to building
our skills as performers and critical thinkers, we will gain a greater understanding
of the impact these practices have on issues of identity, community and culture.
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SPCM 127 - Puppetry in Performance Semester Hours: 3
Once a year
Traces the history and practice of performance objects (rod, glove, and shadow puppets, silhouettes, lantern slides, objects) as they are used to communicate ideas, presence and stories. The course will draw from performance traditions in Europe and Asia, allowing students to explore possibilities through assigned readings, performances and reflective writing.
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SPCM 128 - American Public Address: The Rhetoric of Conflict and Controversy Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
The role of public address in shaping today’s world. Historical and theoretical background, analysis of speeches in politics, religion, labor, education and social reform using films and recordings of controversial contemporary speakers. Topics covered will differ by semester.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
SPCM 5, or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 129 - Performing History Semester Hours: 3
Periodically
This course investigates performance as a means to engage with aesthetic, historical and current events. It examines the theory, practice, ethics, and political efficacy of performed history and current events, from “living newspapers” to performances of political poetry and prose fiction based upon historical documents.
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SPCM 138 - Social Protest: Rhetoric and Performance Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
The role of rhetoric and performance as modes of collective behavior aimed at social change. Historical and theoretical background, emphasizing the application of rhetorical and performance theories to historical and contemporary social movements. Topics covered will vary by semester and may include woman suffrage and women’s rights; civil rights; peace, labor, environmental and identity movements.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Junior class standing or above. May not be taken on a Pass/D+/D/Fail basis.
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SPCM 139 - Political Communication Semester Hours: 3
Once a Year
This course provides students with a better understanding of political advocacy and their roles as receivers in the U.S. political system. Students are introduced to explanations of how and why political candidates craft their messages and how audiences receive and interpret these messages. The course takes a humanities approach to the study of political communication, exploring political communication from the standpoints of theory, media effects, rhetoric, history, and the contemporary practice of communication in politics.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Sophomore standing or above.
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SPCM 147 - Intercollegiate Forensics Semester Hours: 1
Fall, Spring
Preparation for and competition in intercollegiate forensics (speech and debate).
Includes frequent weekend travel. No more than six semester hours may be applied
toward any degree.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Permission of instructor. Pass/D+/D/Fail grade only.
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SPCM 150 - Independent Study/Readings Semester Hours: 1-3
Fall, Spring
Guided student research through selections assigned by the instructor for written
and oral reports. Students must obtain, before registration, written permission
of the instructor who will guide the research.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
May be repeated for a total of 6 s.h.
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SPCM 151 - Independent Study/Readings Semester Hours: 1-3
Fall, Spring
Guided student research through selections assigned by the instructor for written
and oral reports. Students must obtain, before registration, written permission
of the instructor who will guide the research.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
May be repeated for a total of 6 s.h.
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SPCM 170 - Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Internship Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
An internship program that affords students an opportunity to apply their classroom experience in speech communication to a professional work setting. Students work a requisite number of hours and complete a paper relevant to their work experience. Periodic meetings with supervising speech communication and rhetorical studies faculty are required.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Junior class standing and successful completion of 21 credits in speech communication and rhetorical studies; GPA of 3.0 or better or permission of internship coordinator. Students must be approved for admission into the program before registering. May be repeated for a total of 6 s.h.
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SPCM 171 - Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Internship Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
An internship program that affords students an opportunity to apply their classroom experience in speech communication to a professional work setting. Students work a requisite number of hours and complete a paper relevant to their work experience. Periodic meetings with supervising speech communication and rhetorical studies faculty are required.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
Junior class standing and successful completion of 21 credits in speech communication and rhetorical studies; GPA of 3.0 or better or permission of internship coordinator. Students must be approved for admission into the program before registering. May be repeated for a total of 6 s.h.
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SPCM 180 to 189 A-Z - Special Topics in Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Semester Hours: 1-4
Fall, Spring
Intensive study of major communication theories, situations, paradigms,
and/or scholars. Subjects to be selected yearly. The following course
numbers indicate subjects in selected areas of emphasis: 181A-Z
performance; 187A-Z rhetoric; 189A-Z communication theory.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
One of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 181 A-Z - Special Topics in Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Semester Hours: 1-4
Fall, Spring
Intensive study of major communication theories, situations, paradigms, and/or scholars. Subjects to be selected yearly. The following course numbers indicate subjects in selected areas of emphasis: 181A-Z performance; 187A-Z rhetoric; 189A-Z communication theory.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
One of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 187 A-Z - Special Topics in Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Semester Hours: 1-4
Fall, Spring
Intensive study of major communication theories, situations, paradigms, and/or scholars. Subjects to be selected yearly. The following course numbers indicate subjects in selected areas of emphasis: 181A-Z performance; 187A-Z rhetoric; 189A-Z communication theory.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
One of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 189 A-Z - Special Topics in Speech Communication and Rhetorical Studies Semester Hours: 1-4
Fall, Spring
Intensive study of major communication theories, situations, paradigms, and/or scholars. Subjects to be selected yearly. The following course numbers indicate subjects in selected areas of emphasis: 181A-Z performance; 187A-Z rhetoric; 189A-Z communication theory.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
One of the following: SPCM 1, 4, 5, 7; or permission of the instructor.
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SPCM 198 - Departmental Seminar Semester Hours: 3
Periodically
This seminar is generally a small class that concentrates attention upon a particular topic in speech communication. Students read, reflect upon, and write research papers about selected topics which pertain to the seminar, and discuss and defend their views in weekly class meetings. Not open to freshmen or sophomores. May be repeated for credit when subject matter varies.
Prerequisite(s)/Course Notes:
12 s.h. in speech communication course work.
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SPCM 199 - Departmental Honors Semester Hours: 3
Fall, Spring
The research for and the writing of a substantial essay, or the research, execution and presentation of a creative project in speech communication and rhetorical studies. Open only to senior speech communication and rhetorical studies majors who are eligible for and desire to graduate with departmental honors and who secure, before registration, the written permission of the instructor who will supervise the essay or project.
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