SYLLABUS

THE COLLEGE OF NEW ROCHELLE
SCHOOL OF NEW RESOURCES, DC 37 CAMPUS

COM105A - INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION

Fall 2007, Wednesdays 6:00-9:30 p.m.

Professor Jen Heuson

This introductory course presents a comprehensive survey of the communication field to beginning students by exploring the fundamental theories and contexts comprising the field. The seminar introduces students to communications theory and law; technological history; applied communications; communications arts. Through selected reading and a review of media samples, students will develop a basic understanding of the business, science, industry and aesthetics of communication. A Life Arts Project is required.

Course Objectives

1. Understand foundational communication theories. Define “communication” and outline its relation to technological evolution. Identify connections between society and media.
2. Explore how communication technologies define and alter society, culture and community. Examine the impact of emerging technologies on psychology and identity.
3. Recognize the historical development of communication technologies. Evaluate the evolution of print, sound, visual and new media, connecting each to their social impact.
4. Investigate a communication technology through writing and media critique.
5. Analyze readings, media samples and course lectures through weekly online assignments.
6. Document an oral history. Evaluate the interview and documentation process.

Course Requirements

• Students are expected to complete ALL required reading and assignments. Students will complete weekly journal assignments online.
• Students are expected to turn in a research paper in proper APA style with an annotated bibliography. Students will complete AND present a Life Arts Project.
• Students are required to attend and to participate fully in every seminar. Arriving late and leaving early will count against your final participation grade.
• Students are expected to attend all field trips, guest lectures and film screenings.

Required Texts

• Straubhaar, Joseph and Robert LaRose. (2006). Media now: Understanding media,
  culture, and technology (5th ed.). Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth.
• Hacker, Diana. (2007). A Writer’s Reference. (6th ed.). New York: Bedford/St. Martin’s.
• A companion website is available here.
  

Grading

LAP 25%, Research Paper 25%, Online Journals 20%, Final Presentation 10%,
Class Participation/Attendance 20%

• Late assignments will be downgraded. The LAP will not be accepted late.
• The final presentation cannot be rescheduled. Students MUST attend to pass this class.
• Students who miss a class will be expected to complete the reading and view material screened for that week. Students will be allowed two excused absences. Each additional absence will result in a grade reduction of one letter regardless of reason.
• Students who do not attend field trips, guest lectures or film screenings will be counted absent. Missing such events will count toward the allotted two absences.
• Students are expected to be in the classroom when class begins, at the top of the hour, and to stay for the entire period. Students who leave early will be counted absent.
• The use of cellular phones is prohibited in class.