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Frequently Asked Questions

COMM 101 Fundamentals of Speech Communication  (3-0-3) (Area III). Fundamental principles of effectively preparing, presenting, and critically consuming messages in one-to-one, small group, and public speaking contexts. Follow these links to find out more about the
                                      COMM 101 Speech Showcase
                          that is presented to the public by the COMM 101 Students.
                                                 Speech Showcase Winners

                               Production Classes
    The equipment room will be closed for the summer
             beginning Friday, May 16th at 5:00 p.m.

Equipment Room (C112) Policy and Hours:
All equipment is due back to the Equipment Room the next day by 1:00 p.m. (the exception is Saturday as the Equipment Room is not open on Sunday.)  There is a  $5  fine for each day equipment is late.  Please respect your fellow classmates by bringing your equipment back on time.  Thank you!

   

Classes:
                            
COMM 112 Reasoned Discourse  (3-0-3) (Area II) (F/S).  Introduction to logical reasoning and the role of the advocate in a free society. Analysis of propositions, issues, arguments, evidence, fallacies of arguments, and various systems of reasoning. Preparation for and participation in activities designed to apply the principles of logical reasoning in the public forum.

COMM 114 Communication Activities (Variable, 1 to 3) (F/S).  Preparation for and participation in communication activities: competitive forensics and community speaking, university television productions, or other co-curricular communication activities. PREREQ: PERM/INST. COMM 114 and COMM 314 may be repeated for up to four credits each. Not more than four credits total of COMM 114, COMM 214, COMM 314 or COMM 414 may be applied toward the degree in communication.

COMM 115 Introduction to Communication Studies. (1-01) (F/S)  Dimensions of human communication, historical and contemporary concepts, communication degree programs and career opportunities.  (Pass/Fail).   

COMM 131 Listening (3-0-3) (F/S). Theory and practice of our most-used communication skill. Analysis of variables as they promote or impede the process of listening.

COMM 160 Communication And Culture I (3-0-3)F/S).  An introduction to the study of communication and culture. The course will examine central concepts and theories in the field of communication and cultural studies, and focus upon current issues and theoretical perspectives in the study of rhetoric, communication relationships, and the art and performance of communication.

COMM 161 Communication and Culture II (3-0-3) (F/S).  An introduction to the study of communication and culture. The course will focus upon current issues and theoretical perspectives in the study of mass media, communication ethics, communication technologies and freedom of expression.      <<Back to top

COMM 171 Mass Media and Society  (3-0-3) (F/S).  An examination of the role of mass media in contemporary society. Emphasis on the inter-relationships between media and other social and political institutions, and on critical analysis of current media issues.

COMM 211 Voice Study for Media and Live Performance (3-0-3) (F/S).  Study voice science, voice expression, speech articulation and dialects, broadcast announcing, and the International Phonetic Alphabet. Considers student's individual speech problems. 

COMM 214 Intercollegiate Debate  (1-0-1) (F/S).  Preparation for and participation in intercollegiate tournament debate. COREQ: CM 114 or 314. CM 214 and 414 may be repeated for up to four credits each. Not more than three credits total of CM 114, 214, 314, or 414 may be applied toward the degree in communication.

COMM 221 Interpersonal Communication (3-0-3).  An examination of interaction between persons. Focuses on an awareness of how the self, the communication process, and contexts affect interpretations, outcomes, and relationships.

COMM 231 Public Speaking (3-0-3) (F/S).  Analysis of methods and techniques of message composition. Practice in the presentation of public speeches.    

COMM 255 Intro To Communication Training & Development (3-0-3) (F/S). Designed primarily for students interested in communication-based training and development careers. A survey of theories and techniques of communication training and development in human organizations.

COMM 268 Introduction to Video Production (3-0-3) (F/S). The course will introduce students to the theory and practice of video production. Emphasis is placed on using video as an effective means of human communication and self-expression.

COMM 269 Introduction to Audio Production (3-0-3) (F/S).  Introduction to the technologies of radio production, as well as aesthetic approaches and production strategies for different types of radio programs.  Emphasis is placed on using radio as an effective means of human communication and self-expression.  Students will have the opportunity to develop proposals and programs for Boise State Radio.   <<Back to top 

COMM 273 Reporting and News Writing (3-0-3) (F/S).  Fundamentals of reporting, from techniques of interviewing and fact-gathering through the construction of the news story. Emphasis on accuracy, conciseness, and clarity in writing. Study of newspaper styles, usage, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and the use of copy editing symbols. PREREQ: English 102 and ability to use typewriter or PERM/INST.

COMM 278 Principles of Public Relations (3-0-3) (F). Public relations as a professional field: history, theory, principles, and practices.

COMM 279 Public Relations Campaigns (3-0-3) (S). Social science research as applied to public relations, case study analysis, construction, and implementation of campaigns. PREREQ: COMM 278.

COMM 293 Internship

COMM 294 Conference or Workshop (Credits vary).  See Directory of Classes for classes offered.

To enroll in upper-division courses (those numbered 300 to 499), you must have completed all course prerequisites and have met all other requirements of your department or college.  In most instances, you must also have attained junior standing.  If you are a sophomore, you may enroll in upper-division courses with the permission of the department, provided that you have completed all course prerequisites. Some academic programs require students to be formally admitted to the major before they may enroll in upper-division courses. To determine if this policy applies to your major, consult the requirements specified for your major in Chapter 12, "Academic Departments and Courses."

Prior to admission to the first of the required upper-division core courses in Communication, COMM 304 Perspectives of Inquiry students must have completed the following courses with a minimum grade of C in each: <<Back to top

COMM 300 Communication Issues, Industries and Inquiry in Canada
( 3-0-3) (S).  Describes Canadian communication industries, issues, and inquiry, especially the question of cultural identity for Canada. Discusses governmental communication policy as a tool for preserving national, regional, and tribal identity. Examines Canadian scholars of communication. Cross-listed as CANSTD 300 for credit in the Canadian studies minor.

COMM 302 Research Methods (3-0-3) (F/S).  Historical, critical, descriptive, and experimental research methods and tools in Communication. Students design, conduct, report, and evaluate research projects.

COMM 304 Perspectives of Inquiry (3-0-3) (F/S).  A study of the sources and nature
of knowledge, assumptions about knowledge, processes by which knowledge is developed, and perspectives of theoretical inquiry. PREREQ: Completion of the following courses with a minimum grade of C in each: ENGL 102, COMM 160, COMM 161: One of the following from Area I: PHIL 101 or PHIL 201; One of the following from Area II; SOC 101 or
SOC 102 or SOC 230; One of the following from Area III: MATH 124, MATH 130, MATH 147, MATH 160, MATH 170-71, or MATH 175.     

COMM 307 Interviewing (3-0-3) (F/S).  Communication behavior in two-person situations. Practical experience in various types of interviews as confronted in business, in education, and in the professions.

COMM 311 Speech Communication for Teachers (3-0-3) (F/S).  Designed to improve the prospective teacher's awareness of communicative processes related to effective teaching: emphasis on various communication situations confronted by teachers, and strategies for achieving good student-teacher relationships. PREREQ: COMM 255 or admission to teacher education program.

COMM 314 Communication Activities (Variable, 1 to 3) (F/S).  Preparation for and participation in communication activities; competitive forensics and community speaking, university television productions, or other co-curricular communication activities. Not more than four (4) credits total of COMM 114, COMM 214, COMM 314 or COMM 414 may be applied toward fulfillment of Communication department major requirements. Note more than 12 credits total of COMM 114, COMM 214, COMM 314 or COMM 414 may be counted toward any undergraduate degree requirements. PREREQ: PERM/INST.

COMM 321 Rhetorical Theories (3-0-3) (F/S).  An examination of theories concerning the complexity of interaction among ideas, messages, and people, including analysis of various message strategies.

COMM 322 Intermediate Sign Language (3-0-3) (F/S).  A continuation in building skills, vocabulary, and techniques in American Sign Language (ASL). A refining in abilities in communication will be stressed. Techniques for using a total communication with the deaf will be expanded to cover various educational and social situations. PREREQ: COMM 122.    <<Back to top 

COMM 331 Message Analysis and Criticism (3-0-3) (F/S).  An evaluation of methods of analyzing and criticizing messages and their application to making critical appraisals of public communication.

COMM 332 Contemporary Public Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  The nature, function, and influence of public communication in contemporary society. An examination of major events and issues in an attempt to identify particular characteristics of public dialogue which reflect, reinforce, and alter public opinion.

COMM 341 Nonverbal Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  An examination of the function of nonverbal behavior codes in communication.

COMM 351 Intercultural Communication (3-0-3).  An analysis of societal and cultural influences on interpersonal communication. A critical examination of communication within and among subcultures as well as across cultural boundaries.

COMM 355 Developing Communication Training (3-0-3) (F/S).  Analysis of processes of communication training. Developing skills in designing, preparing, presenting, and evaluating training activities. PREREQ: COMM 255 and COMM 302.

COMM 356 Communication in the Small Group (3-0-3) (F/S).  A study of human interaction in small groups. A blending of theory and practical experience focusing upon group development, roles, norms, team building, problem-solving, conflict, and leadership.

COMM 360 Media Aesthetics and Culture (3-0-3) (S).  An examination of the form and cultural values of mass media programs, the relationship between audiences and media products, and approaches to critical analysis of media products.

COMM 361 Organizational Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  The application of communication theory and methodology to the study of communication within the formal organization. Theories and problems of human communication within and between organizations.

COMM 362 Legal and Ethical Issues of Mass Media (3-0-3) (F/S).  Examination of media-related ethical and legal issues facing media practitioners and the public.

COMM 363 Advanced Writing Workshop (3-0-3) (F/S).  Advanced instruction in various forms of journalistic writing, including feature and critical writing. PREREQ: COMM 273.

COMM 364 Visual Communication (3-0-3) (F/S). Theory and practice of various forms of visual communication, including photography and graphics.

COMM 365 Film Styles and Genres (3-0-3) (S).  In this film studies course students will view a variety of international cinema masterpieces from different periods. Students will learn how to analyze and discuss these films in terms of formal elements, historical/social context, and industrial constraints. Concepts of genre, authorship and ideology will also be introduced, providing students with the requisite critical tools for analysis of a wide range of film art.  <<Back to top

COMM 368 Advanced Audio Production (3-0-3) (F/S).. Advanced work in the theory and practice of audio-production, including advanced production techniques, aesthetic strategies, and multi-track recording and computer-based nonlinear editing. PREREQ: COMM 268 OR COMM 269.

COMM 369 Video Post-Production (3-0-3) (F/S) Production strategies and techniques of computer-based video editing, graphics and animation. PREREQ: COMM 268.

COMM 370 Advanced Video Production (3-0-3) (F/S).  Advanced work in theory and practice of video production. Development and production of full-length video programs. PREREQ: COMM 268.

COMM 373 Reporting Public Affairs (3-0-3) (F/S).  Theory and practice of covering governmental and community affairs. Examination of the beat system and developing sources. PREREQ: COMM 273 OR PERM/INST.

COMM 390 Conflict Management (3-0-3) (S).  Examination of the causes of conflict, conflict management theory, and conflict management techniques applied in interpersonal, intergroup, organizational, and community settings. Discussion and skill development through experiential learning will focus on such conflict management techniques as interpersonal management, mediation, arbitration, negotiation, and reconciliation. Students may not receive credit for both SOC 390 and COMM 390. PREREQ: SOC 290 OR COMM 101, upper-division standing.

COMM 401 Methods of Teaching Communication (3-0-3)( S).  Analysis and planning of curriculum for speech communication. A study of instructional materials, classroom techniques and methods, development of behavioral objectives, and management of curricular programs.

COMM 412 Persuasion (3-0-3) (F/S).  Emphasis on theories of persuasion. Examination of variables and message strategies relevant to the persuasive process. Application of theory through the analysis and/or construction of persuasive messages.

COMM 414 Intercollegiate Debate (1-0-1) (F/S).  Preparation for and participation in intercollegiate tournament debate. Not more than (4) credits total of COMM 114 , COMM 214, COMM 314, or COMM 414 may be applied toward fulfillment of Communication departmental major requirements. Not more than 12 credits total of COMM 114, COMM 214, COMM 314 or COMM 414 may be counted toward any undergraduate degree requirements. COREQ: COMM 114 or 314.

COMM 421 Theory and Philosophy of Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  Students explore various generic philosophies of communication and the perspectives of inquiry they imply, culminating in the articulation of a theory of communication. PREREQ: C or above in COMM 304, and any one of the following courses: COMM 302, ENGL 488-488G, HIST 210, or SOC 311.

COMM 431 Small Group Theory and Research (3-0-3) (F).  An advanced study of variables affecting and theories explaining the communicative interaction of small groups.<<Back to top

COMM 441 Advanced Public Presentation (3-0-3) (F/S).  Theory and practice in various forms of communication presentation.  Subjects may include public speaking, oral interpretation, storytelling, oral history production, conversation art from ethnographic study, group performance.  PREREQ:  Upper-Division Standing.

COMM 451 Communication Practicum (Variable 1 to 4) (F/S).  Directed study emphasizing the practical application of skills and theory relevant to human communication. An opportunity to focus on areas of special interest to the student. May be repeated for a total of four (4) credits.

COMM 466 Communication Technology and Social Change (3-0-3) (F/S).  The history and evolution of communication and mass communication technologies, focusing upon the social/cultural impact of such technologies.

COMM 467 Mass Communication and Democracy (3-0-3) (F/S).  A study of the role of mass communication in the democratic process, focusing upon the ways mass media both contribute to and inhibit the development of a viable public sphere and effective political process.

COMM 471 Advanced Interpersonal Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  An examination of the recent theory and research on how communication is linked to self-presentation, and to relational and instrumental goals.  PREREQ:  Upper-Division Standing.

COMM 475:  Advanced Studies in Communication Theory and Philosophy (3-0-3) (F/S).  Based on literature that communication scholars consider significant for the future of communication theory and philosophy, students develop position papers in a seminar environment that highlights current debates over how best to define "communication."  PREREQ:  Upper-Division Standing.

COMM 478 Public Relations (3-0-3)( F).  Analysis of public relations media and methods. Public relations as a management tool. Identifying and reaching the various publics. Practice in public relations writing.  PREREQ: COMM 279.

NOTE: The next seven courses below cover a variety of technical and theoretical subjects in human communication. They involve a variety of approaches and activities. These courses are scheduled as necessary to meet student and community needs. Consult the Special Topics section of the BSU Directory of Classes for specific course and content offerings. Each general course is repeatable, but the specific topic of study within the course is not repeatable.

COMM 480 Studies in Journalistic Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  Advanced instruction in theories about, history of, and preparation of nonfiction content for the mass media. Content varies from semester to semester. Subjects may include public affairs reporting, journalism history, documentary scriptwriting, etc. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 481 Studies in Interpersonal Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  The examination of issues, contexts, and particulars of interpersonal communication. Content varies from semester to semester. Subjects may include; conflict management, general semantics, male-female communication, etc. Course may be repeated for credit.  <<Back to top

COMM 482 Studies in Public Relations (3-0-3) (F-S). Examination of public relations issues, contexts, and applications. Content varies from semester to semester. Subjects may include: case studies, campaign design and analysis, promotional PR, PR for diverse audiences, media strategy and planning, etc. Course may be repeated for credit. PREREQ: COMM 279 and upper-division standing.

COMM 483 Studies in Organizational Communication (3-0-3) (F/S).  The study of basic communication principles as applied to or affected by the organizational setting. Content varies from semester to semester. Subjects may include communication theories of organizational management, negotiation, human relations training, etc. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 484 Studies in Rhetoric and Public Presentation (3-0-3) (F/S).  Historical, theoretical, and practical study in various forms of communication presentation. Content varies from semester to semester. Subjects may include advanced public speaking, group interpretation, theory of debate, etc. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 485 Studies in the Inter-Relationship Between Gender and Communication
(3-0-3) (F/S).  Instruction in gender as a variable in communicative behaviors. Content varies semester to semester. Subjects may include: gender issues in interpersonal and organizational communication; power, gender and nonverbal communication; feminist rhetoric. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 486 Studies in Media Production (3-0-3) (F/S).  Advanced work in the production of media programs, including journalism, audio and video. Specific content varies from semester to semester. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 487 Studies in Media Theory (3-0-3) (F/S).  Critical evaluation of contemporary theoretical trends and issues in the study of mass media. Content varies from semester to semester. Course may be repeated for credit.

COMM 489 Advanced Studies in Media (3-03) (F/S). Students produce and present media projects, productions and/or research addressing questions of media theory and practice in a seminar setting.  PREREQ:  Upper-division standing and at least two courses from the following:  COMM 360, COMM 362, COMM 365, COMM 466, COMM 467, COMM 487.

COMM 493 Internship (Variable Credits).  Supervised field work. For more information on internships, see "BSU's Course Numbering System" in Chapter 12.

COMM 496 Independent Study (1-4 credits).  Individual study of either a reading or project nature

COMM 498 Communication Seminar (3-0-3) (F/S).  Students demonstrate their ability to theorize, discover, analyze, evaluate, report, and defend a project about human communication. PREREQ: COMM 421 and senior standing.

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