Special Topics in Professional Communication

Curriculum Guideline

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Course
CMNS 3800
Discontinued
No
Course Code
CMNS 3800
Descriptive
Special Topics in Professional Communication
Department
Communications
Faculty
Language, Literature & Performing Arts
Credits
3.00
Start Date
End Term
Not Specified
PLAR
No
Semester Length
15 weeks
Max Class Size
30
Course Designation
None
Industry Designation
None
Contact Hours

Lecture: 2 hours/week

and

Seminar: 2 hours/week

or

Hybrid: 2 hours/week in class

           2 hours/week online

or

Fully online

This course may also be offered in a condensed 7-week format.

Method(s) Of Instruction
Lecture
Seminar
Online
Hybrid
Learning Activities

Some or all of the following methods will be used:

  1. lecture/discussion
  2. group work
  3. peer review
  4. projects
  5. instructor feedback on students’ work
  6. individual consultation
  7. presentation (individual or group)
  8. field trip(s)
Course Description
This course examines a special topic in professional communication chosen to highlight a theoretical, historical, technological, thematic, or practical focus. Readings will include theory, criticism, and applied research, and will introduce students to a range of perspectives on the topic.
Course Content

Topics, readings, and assignments will vary with each instructor’s version of this course, but all versions will meet the objectives stated in Learning Outcomes.

Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this course will be able to:

  1. develop a comprehensive and critical understanding and appreciation of the selected topic.
  2. become familiar with the range of perspectives on that topic, including its historical development, controversies, and implications in the future.
  3. identify aspects of the topic that can be applied to their practice as professional communicators.
  4. make connections between the selected topic and other issues in the field of professional communication.
  5. write and present a significant final paper that reflects their understanding of the topic.
Means of Assessment

Assessment will be in accordance with Douglas College's Evaluation Policy. Students are expected to be self-motivated and to demonstrate professionalism, which includes active participation, good attendance, punctuality, effective collaboration, ability to meet deadlines, presentation skills, and accurate self-evaluation.

Evaluation will be based on this general format:

Short papers (2) 40%
Proposal for final paper or project 10%
Final paper or project and presentation 30%
Presentation 10%
Professionalism/participation 10%
  100%
Textbook Materials

Texts will be selected by the instructor based on the topic and may include a coursepack.

Prerequisites

Acceptance into the Post-Degree Diploma in Professional Communication

or a minimum of 45 credit hours including a university-transfer course in English, Communications, or Creative Writing with a grade of B or higher

or permission of the Professional Communication program coordinator