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LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age (3 Credit

Hours):

LB 300 Blended
College of Business

Extensive practical application of diverse forms of written and oral


business communication with the aid of technology. Topics include
writing memos, reports, email messages; using multimedia
PowerPoint slides in presentations; facilitating business meetings;
creating electronic resumes; using online discussion groups; and
handling the challenges of international and cross-cultural
communications.

Instructor:.............................................Michael Cherry
Office:.....................................................St. Charles
Office Hours:..........................................M-F 9-5
Office phone:..........................................815.836.5562
E-mail:....................................................cherrymi@lewisu.edu
Required Textbook................................Excellence in Business Communication (11th ed) by
................................................................John V. Thill and Courtland L. Bovee. Pearson, 2015.
................................................................ISBN: 9780132719049
Textbook Online Resources..................See textbook
About this Course & Teaching Approach
This class will use a variety of teaching/learning methods with considerable emphasis on class interaction and
discussion. Lectures will be supplemented by discussion and an exchange of information to encourage the
development and expression of analytical skills. Therefore, students must be prepared.
In addition, being prepared for class will help students develop analytical skills, formulate ideas, and improve
their communication skills. Reading the text, and other material will provide students the foundation for
discussing important marketing topics and evaluating current marketing methods and strategies.
The highly accelerated pace of this course requires you, the student, to take a great deal of responsibility for
your own learning. We have consciously structured each workshop to build on the skills you bring to this course
as a working adult. You will note the reduced use of traditional lecture presentations, and in its place a
continuing emphasis on individual integration of concepts and on group/team activities and discussion as a
learning tool. In preparation for each workshop, students are expected to complete a minimum of 15-20 hours
per week of study, homework assignments and/or group projects.
Course Framework
The text, Excellent in Business Communication (11th ed.), is divided into five substantive areas which will serve
as the underlying framework of this course:
Part 1 Understanding the Foundation of Business communication
Part 2 Applying the Three-Step Writing Process
Part 3 Crafting Business Messages
Part 4 Preparing Reports and Oral Presentations
Part 5 Writing Employment Messages and Interviewing for Jobs

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This course provides students with a context for learning the basic principles of business communication,
understanding important communication issues, and discovering the latest technological impacts on business
communication. Students will explore how business communication works in the world, understand concepts
behind effective communication while developing and refining their own written and oral business
communication skills.

The assigned workshop activities include critical thinking questions, case analyses to solve company
communication dilemmas, document analyses, and message preparation. These activities provide opportunities
for students to share their current understanding of experiences and to develop an appreciation of the critical
importance of effective business communication.

Student Learning Outcomes


At the end of this course, students are expected to master several Student Learning Outcomes, including:
Student Learning Outcome
1) Solving communication problems facing actual
companies.
2) Writing effective memos, letters, and reports.
3) Learning how technology impacts
communication.
4) Identifying ethical dilemmas in workplace
communication.
5) Enhancing oral presentation skills.
6) Facilitation business meetings.
7) Handling challenges of cross-cultural and
international communication.
8) Working collaboratively with team members to
solve communication dilemmas.

Assessment Measures
1) Measure use and understanding through
discussion boards, written assignments, current
event articles, and discussions.
2) Measure use and understanding through
discussion boards, written assignments, end of
session surveys, and quizzes.
3) Measure use and understanding through
discussion boards, written assignments, and our
course management system, Blackboard.
4) Measure use of discussion boards, written
assignments, and quizzes.
5) Measure use and understanding through multiple
speaking opportunities and discussions and
discussion boards.
6) Measure use and understanding through the
structure of the course.
7) Measure use and understanding through
discussion boards, written assignments, end of
session surveys, and quizzes.
8) Measure use and understanding through group
assignments, in-class group activities, discussion
boards, and lecture.

Grade Components
The course grade could be determined by the following:
Class Participation (discussion boards)
Current Event
Weekly Quizzes
168
Written Homework
Speech
Total Points

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

Points
132
24

%
30
5
38

96
25
445

22
5
100%

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Grading Criteria
Grade Percentage
Grade A, A- Requirements
A
100% to 93%
1.
Demonstrates accurate and sophisticated understanding of readings
A92% to 90%
and issues. Does more than repeat text or lectures. Draws out
B+
89% to 87%
additional important implications.
B
86% to 83%
2.
Shows a critical stance toward opinions expressed in class or
B82% to 80%
readings. Expresses their own views articulately and defends them
C+
79% to 77%
well.
C
76% to 73%
3.
Shows originality of thought in pressing the critical stance, in
C72% to 70%
drawing out additional implications from readings and class
D+
69% to 67%
discussions, and in finding personal meaning in the readings and
D
66% to 63%
issues discussed.
D62% to 60%
4.
Expressed ideas clearly. Papers contain very few grammatical or
F
59% or less
stylistic weaknesses.
5.
Demonstrates a leadership role in team assignments and attends all team work sessions.
Grade B+, B and B- Requirements
1.
Shows all elements of A work, but with less accomplishment.
2.
There is still accurate understanding of readings/issues with a demonstrated ability to do more than
repeat text.
3.
Critical stance with some effort, not always successful to defend that stance.
4.
Some attempt to find personal meaning, with at least hints of originality and creativity of thought.
5.
Very clear expression of thoughts and ideas.
6.
Contributes more than their required portions in team assignments and participates in all team work
sessions.
Grade C+, C and C- Requirements
1.
Overall, demonstrates an accurate grasp of the readings and issues, but with some inaccuracy and
without deeper sophistication and the ability to draw out additional implications.
2.
Some attempt to take a critical stance, but with little effort or success in defending that stance.
3.
Some attempt to find personal meaning.
4.
Sufficient clarity of expression to communicate ideas but stylistic or grammatical weakness creates
some difficulties.
5.
Performs their portion of team assignments thoroughly and accurately / participates in most team work
sessions.
Grade D+, D and D- Requirements
1.
A genuine effort to understand has been made, with some demonstrated understanding of reading
and issues but with serious deficiencies.
2.
Generally lacking in critical stance or in a defense of that stance.
3.
The attempt to find personal meaning is either lacking or greatly hindered by difficulties in
understanding.
4.
Despite some errors, performs most of their portion of team assignments thoroughly and accurately /
participates in some team work sessions.
Grade F Requirements
1.
Simply an unsatisfactory effort in key respects, especially in understanding and clarity of
expression.
Exams
Quizzes will be open book and note and conducted online. Open neighbor is a violation of Academic Honesty.
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Assignments
Potential Grading Rubric for Written Assignments
The Seven Cs of Communication
Based on: Baird, J. & Stull, J. (1983). Business communication: Strategies and solutions. New York: McGraw
Hill.
Levels of Achievement
Criteria

Exemplary

Competent

Developing

Correct: Message must


include proper spelling,
grammar, punctuation, and
format.

3 Points
Few if any errors.

2 Points
Several, minor errors

1 Points
Unacceptable, major
errors

Clear: Message needs to be


clear to be effective.

3 Points
Excellent Clarity

2 Points
A majority of the
assignment was clear

1 Points
Poor clarity.

Concise: Message needs to


be brief if it is to be read by
busy people.

3 Points
Concise yet
informative

2 Points
Some elements of
redundancy and 'nice to
know but not critical'
information OR lacking
too much information
(overly concise)

1 Points
Did not adhere to
assignment
guidelines

Format: Information
formatted appropriately for
type of documents.

3 Points
Excellent formatting

2 Points
Format was mostly
correct w/ minor errors.

1 Points
Not formatted
correctly.

Concrete: Message needs


concrete (specific) terms for
accuracy and credibility.

3 Points
Excellent accuracy
and credibility

2 Points
Specifics were hit and
miss.

1 Points
Message lacked
specifics and left it
up to the reader to
'figure out.'

Coherent: Message needs to


hang together so that ideas
flow from one to the next
through smooth transitions.

3 Points
Seamless transitions
and logical
construction.

2 Points
The document
contained elements of
strong organization

1 Points
Document was
poorly organized.

Complete: Message needs to


include enough relevant and
useful information.

3 Points
Thorough and
effective.

2 Points
Some elements were not
thoroughly explored.

1 Points
Little relevant and
useful information.

Mechanics of Business Writing

Reasoning in Business Writing

Social Conventions in Business Writing


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The Seven Cs of Communication


Based on: Baird, J. & Stull, J. (1983). Business communication: Strategies and solutions. New York: McGraw
Hill.
Levels of Achievement
Courteous: Message should
be positive to build
goodwill, and focus on the
audience.

3 Points
Demonstrated
superior 'audience
centered
communication'

2 Points
Some elements
exhibited audience
centered
communication others
did not.

1 Points
Did not consider the
audience

Total [Each Yes = 3 point,


maximum = 24 points]
Late Assignments:
Late assignments are not accepted. In-class assignments must be completed in class on the day they are
assigned. If you miss the class, you miss the assignments and the points allowed.
Participation/Substantive Postings

(Discussion Board Grading)

The collaborative learning model requires students to participate and actively engage in the learning process.
Participation is not the same as attendance. Attendance is simply being present in the classroom. Participation
requires students to be actively involved in the learning process in and out of class. For Participation Points
you must meet the following expectations during the workshops:
1. (Quality) You are expected to contribute to the class discussions in meaningful ways. That means:
a. Providing additional information to the discussion
b. Elaborating on previous comments from others
c. Presenting explanation of concepts or methods to help fellow students
d. Presenting reasons for or against a topic in a persuasive fashion
e. Sharing your own personal experiences that relate to the topic
f. Providing a URL and explanation for an area you researched on the Internet.
2. (Quantity) For On-line sessions your grade will also be determined by
a. The number and regularity of your contributions. Students are expected to log into the course
and post (respond) in the threaded discussion topics on a minimum of three (3) separate days
per week, beginning no later than Thursday on or before midnight CST. Final postings
deadline is on or before midnight Tuesday.
b. For example, each online week we will have two graded discussion forums. You will need to
post in each forum on a minimum of 3 days (M, W, F).
Our discussion goal is to be collaborative, not combative. Experience shows that even an innocent remark can
be easily misconstrued. Make certain that your comments are worded it in a way that will not be seen as a
personal attack! Be positive in your approach to others and diplomatic with your words.
Potential Grading Rubric for Participation In Class
Points
7-12
1-6
0

Criteria
Average to excellent application of 1 a-f in your contributions. Appropriate frequency of contributions
based on the students personal communication style.
Poor to average application of 1 a-f in your contributions. Few to little contribution based on the
students personal communication style.
Did not attend

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Potential Grading Rubric for Participation On Line


Points
9-12

Quantity
Posting in the threaded discussion topics on a
minimum of three (3) separate days per week.

5-8

Posting in the threaded discussion topics on two


(2) separate days per week.

1-4

Posting in the threaded discussion topics on one


(1) day per week.

Did not participate

Quality
Excellent deep use of 1 a-f
Average fair use of 1 a-f
Poor little, if any use of 1 a-f
Excellent deep use of 1 a-f
Average fair use of 1 a-f
Poor little, if any use of 1 a-f
Excellent deep use of 1 a-f
Average fair use of 1 a-f
Poor little, if any use of 1 a-f
Did not participate

Speeches
Students will be expected to make verbal presentations. To assess these presentations the following rubric will
be employed. Potential Rubric follows:

Organization

Language

Delivery

O Organizational
pattern is
minimally
observable or
not observable

O Organizational
pattern is
clearly
observable

O Language
choices are
unclear and
either
minimally
support or do
not support the
effectiveness of
the
presentation
O Language is
not appropriate
to audience
O Delivery
techniques
detract from
the
understandabili
ty of the
presentation
O Speaker

O Language
choices
thoughtful
O Language
choices
generally
support the
effectiveness
of the
presentation
O Language is
appropriate to
audience
O Delivery
techniques
make the
presentation
understandabl
e and
interesting
O Speaker

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

5 --Meets the 3 level


and
O Organizational
pattern is
clearly and
consistently
observable and
is skillful
O Content of the
presentation
cohesive

Category
Score

O Language
choices are
imaginative,
memorable,
and compelling
O Language
choices
enhance
effectiveness
O Delivery
techniques
make the
presentation
compelling
O Speaker
appears
polished and
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Supporting
Material

Central
Message

appears
uncomfortable
O Insufficient or
non-existing
supporting
materials
O Either nonexisting
references or
the reference
to information
or analysis
minimally
supports the
presentation or
establishes
credibility
O Either nonexisting central
message or the
central
message is not
explicitly
stated, but can
be deduced

appears
comfortable

confident

O Supporting
materials
sufficient
O Reference to
information or
analysis that
generally
supports the
presentation
or establishes
credibility

O Supporting
materials more
than sufficient
O A variety of
types of
supporting
materials used
O Reference to
information or
analysis that
significantly
supports the
presentation or
establishes
credibility

O Central
message
basically clear
and
understandabl
e
O Central
message
consistent
with
supporting
material

O Central
message is
compelling
O Central
message
strongly
enhanced by
supporting
material
Overall Score:

Confidentiality
Sometimes during class discussions, students will offer information from their place of employment. This may
include polices, practices, strategies, and future initiatives. With respect for the other members in the class, we
will treat all discussions as CONFIDENTIAL that is, as information that will not leave the classroom.
Academic Honesty, Computer Ethics, and Copyright Laws
In the classroom, as in business, plagiarism and cheating are serious offenses. Offenders may receive a grade of
zero on the exam, paper or project; or even failure in the course; or expulsion from the University. For more
information, refer to the Academic Honesty, Computer Ethics, and Copyright Laws policies in the University
Catalog.
Additionally, all Lewis students must abide by the Lewis University Information Services Acceptable Use
Policy. This is an agreement between members of the Lewis community and Lewis University regarding use of
the Internet, on-campus network, Web Page, Course Management Systems, Student Information System, and all
electronic systems. See: http://www.lewisu.edu/welcome/offices/infoservices/All_AcceptableUsePolicy.htm
Other General Policies and Procedures
1. University policies
Refer to current course schedule booklet for policies concerning:
a. Weather related closure of university and/or Off-campus sites.
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b. Personal decision not to attend class due to weather.


2. College of Business policies and procedures
Refer to College of Business Academic Policies section of the current university catalogue about:
a. Class attendance
b. Incomplete grades
c. Academic honesty
d. Grade appeal
Note: Potential Modifications
The instructor reserves the right to modify, change, or waive any part of the syllabus or the evaluation criteria
for this course. The instructor will provide prior notification of any modifications.
Email Correspondence/Communication
Email will be the dominant communication tool in this workshop. The instructor will acknowledge all email
correspondence within 36 hours. If you do not receive a return response, it means the instructor has not received
your message. Resend your material and leave a voice mail for the instructor.
Students are expected to check their email and log into Blackboard at a minimum of 4 to 5 times per week.
Additional Instruction
If you are uncomfortable with your progress in this workshop there are a variety of assistance programs oncampus including but not limited to the Learning Resource Center, Writing Center, and your classmates.
Course Materials
Textbooks are a necessary component of this university course. Your text was chosen after carefully evaluating
many other texts. Aspects of this text that will help support your learning in the class are:

1. This text presents the material in a clear, concise and engaging manner.
2. This text uses numerous examples from real world companies.
3. The concepts and companies presented are up-to-date and represent the most current management
research.
4. The text offers case analysis which involves applying what you have read and learned.
5. A comprehensive website supports the text.

Blackboard:

The course will require students to use Blackboard extensively: assignment submission,
retrieving course documents/materials, electronic communication, etc. All students are required
to have access to the Internet. The course shell can be accessed through the on-campus
computer labs, home computers, public libraries, Internet cafes, etc. The course Website can be

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found: http://lewisuniversity.blackboard.com. For more about how to use Blackboard visit:


www.lewisu.edu/resources/larc/impact/bbOnlineOrientationModules.htm

Workshop Adaptations

If you need workshop adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, if you have emergency medical
information to share with the instructor, or if you need special arrangements in case the building must be
evacuated, please contact the instructor.

Submitting Assignments

All workshop work is required to be submitted through Blackboard, unless otherwise specified. Assignments not
submitted via Blackboard will not be accepted. Additionally, written work should be submitted in MS Word or
Rich Text Format (RTF).
Technical Support
For any technology related issues, please contact the Instructional Technology Help Desk (ITSO) at
helpdesk@lewisu.edu or (815)836-5950 or extension 5950.

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Miscellaneous Materials
The Mission Statement of Lewis University
Lewis University, guided by its Catholic and Lasallian heritage, provides to a diverse student population
programs for a liberal and professional education grounded in the interaction of knowledge and fidelity in the
search for truth.
Lewis promotes the development of the complete person through the pursuit of wisdom and justice.
Fundamental to its mission is a spirit of association which fosters community in all teaching, learning and
service. These distinctive values guide the University in fulfilling its mission:

Knowledge
The result of a lifelong pursuit of learning fostered through creative and
critical interaction in a community of learners.
Fidelity
The spirit which recognizes God as ultimate reality, unifying the diverse
forms of knowledge in the pursuit of fullness of truth, while recognizing the
diversity of human experience.
Wisdom
The result of the integration of reflection and action developed through
higher learning throughout all of life.
Justice
The affirmation of the equal dignity of every person and the promotion of
personal and social responsibility.
Association
The process of forming a community of mutual respect, collegiality, collaboration and service.

Sanctified Zone
Also, this learning space is an extension of Lewis Universitys Sanctified Zone,
a place where people are committed to working to end racism, bias and prejudice
by valuing diversity in a safe and nurturing environment. This active promotion
of diversity and the opposition to all forms of prejudice and bias are a powerful
and healing expression of our desire to be Signum Fidei, Signs of Faith, in
accordance with the Lewis Mission Statement. To learn more about the
Sanctified Zone, please visit: www.lewisu.edu/sanctifiedzone

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Schedule
Date

To be
completed prior
to Workshop 1

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Explain why effective communication is important to organizations and how it can
help you succeed in business
2. Discuss four changes in the workplace that are intensifying the need to
communicate effectively
3. Describe the five characteristics of effective business communication
4. List strategies for using communication technology successfully
5. Identify and briefly discuss types of communication barriers
6. Discuss four guidelines for overcoming communication barriers
7. Highlight the advantages and disadvantages of working in teams
8. Identify the characteristics of effective teams
9. Clarify the importance of nonverbal communication
10. Explain how you can improve meeting productivity through preparation,
leadership, and participation
READ
Chapter 1: Achieving Success Through Effective Business Communication
Chapter 2: Mastering Team Skills and Interpersonal Communication
CASE PREPARATION
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Toyota (Ch. 1)
Be prepared to discuss case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at the Cemex (Ch. 2)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 3 (Ch. 1)
Questions 2 & 3 (Ch. 2)
Exercises

Questions 2 & 13 (Ch. 1)

Questions 10 & 13 (Ch. 2)

FORMAL COMMUNICATION: SELF-INTRODUCTION (24 points)

Write a one-page memorandum introducing yourself to your instructor.

Self-Introduction Background: Where did you grow up? What have you done in
terms of school, extracurricular activities, jobs and family life? Interests: What are
you interested in? What do you like to do? What do you like to think about and talk
about? Achievements: What achievements have given you the greatest personal
satisfaction? List at least three. Include things that gave you a real sense of
accomplishment and pride, whether or not theyre the sort of thing youd list on a

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rsum. Include a picture if you feel comfortable

PARTICIPATION IN CLASS (12 points)

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Date

Students
will sign
up for a
session
during
Week 1

DO
NOT
prepare
for the
first
course
session

Assignment

CURRENT EVENT ARTICLE SUMMARY

Find an article in the Harvard Business Review (HBR) that relates to Business
Communication

You can use the online Library databases to research articles.

If you have not used the online databases follow these steps to find the HBR.

1. Go to www.lewisu.edu
2. Scroll over Academics
3. Click on Library
4. Click on Search E-Journals
5. You will probably need passwords here. Check Blackboard for current password
6. Type in Harvard Business Review
7. Open Business Source Complete
8. Click on Search within this publication
9. Happy hunting!

CONTENT

One paragraph summary of article content and relate the article content to 2 course concepts

FORMAT

Follow Guidelines for Written Assignment

2 pages maximum

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DELIVERY

Session

(24 points)

All students will submit their memo via Bb Assignment function.

ONGROUND WEEKS: Students will be required to present their summary and article in a
3-5 minute, timed presentation during our course session. A question and answer period will
follow. This presentation will be critiqued by other members of the class.

ONLINE WEEKS: Students will be required to post their summary, article link, and two
questions in one of the graded discussion boards of the week they have chosen. Your online
submission will be due on or before midnight on Thursday.

Student
Signup

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Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Discuss the opportunities and challenges of intercultural communication
2. Explain the importance of recognizing cultural differences; delineate the
differences between high- and low-context cultures, and list categories of cultural
differences
3. Explain why studying other cultures helps you communicate more effectively
4. Describe the three-step writing process
5. Explain why it's important to define your purpose
6. Justify the importance of analyzing your audience profile
7. List factors to consider when choosing the most appropriate channel and medium
for your message
8. Summarize the process for organizing business messages effectively
READ
Chapter 3: Communicating in a World of Diversity
Chapter 4: Planning Business Messages
Appendix A: Format and Layout of Business Documents

To be completed
prior to
Workshop 2

CASE PREPARATION
Solving Communication Dilemmas at EY (Ch. 3)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at H&R Block (Ch. 4)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 3)
Questions 1 & 3 (Ch. 4)
Exercises

Questions 4 & 11 (Ch. 3)

Questions 5 & 12 (Ch. 4)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 1

PARTICIPATION IN CLASS (12 points)

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Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Explain the importance of adapting your messages to the needs and expectations
of your audience
2. Discuss ways of achieving a tone that is businesslike and a style that is clear and
concise
3. Describe how to select words that are not only correct but also effective
4. Discuss factors that increase paragraph readability
5. Explain why revision is important in business and discuss when revision is
performed
6. List tips for making your writing clear
READ
Chapter 5: Writing Business Messages
Chapter 6: Completing Business Messages

To be completed
prior to Workshop
3
Online

CASE PREPARATION (24 points)


Solving Communication Dilemmas at She Takes on the World (Ch. 5)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Jefferson Rabb Web Design (Ch. 6)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 5)
Questions 1 & 3 (Ch. 6)
Exercises

Questions 4 & 6 (Ch. 5)

Questions 7 & 15 (Ch. 6)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 2
WRITTEN HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

(24 points)

Students will interview a person from a culture different than their own and
describe communication cultural differences noted by the interviewee. Findings
should be presented in a one-page memo format.

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Date

To be completed
prior to Workshop
4

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Compare the strengths and weaknesses of the print and electronic media
available for short messages
2. Describe the role of blogging in business communication today
3. Apply the three step writing process to routine and positive messages
4. Discuss the differences among types of routine requests, positive news, and
goodwill messages
5. WE WILL CONDUCT THE MAJOR FIELD TEST SOMETIME IN THE
NEXT 3 SESSIONS. (24 POINTS)
READ
Chapter 7: Crafting Messages for Electronic and Social Media
Chapter 8: Writing Routine and Positive Messages
CASE PREPARATION
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Starbucks (Ch. 7)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Get Satisfaction (Ch. 8)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 7)
Questions 1 & 3 (Ch. 8)
Exercises

Questions 4 & 6 (Ch. 7)

Questions 4 & 5 (Ch. 8)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 3
WRITTEN HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT (24 points)

Pick a social media technology to investigate in detail (examples include,


Twitter, YouTube, Blogs, Facebook, LinkedIn, Podcasts, Yelp, Google, Other
[you choose!].

Describe the technology/tool (What is it?)

What are the positives and negatives of this technology/tool?

What is the value of this technology/tool in a business environment?

Why would you (or would you not) recommend the adoption of this

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technology/tool in your current workplace/organization?

3-pages maximum

Be prepared to present your material in class.

PARTICIPATION IN CLASS (12 points)

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Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Explain the differences between the direct and indirect approaches to negative
messages, including when its appropriate to use each one
2. Identify the risks of using the indirect approach and explain how to avoid such
problems
3. Describe the AIDA plan for persuasive messages
4. Distinguish between promotional and logical approach and discuss how to
balanced them
5. Distinguish between emotional and logical appeals and discuss how to balance
them
READ
Chapter 9: Writing Negative Messages
Chapter 10: Writing Persuasive Messages

To be completed
prior to Workshop
5
Online

CASE PREPARATION (24 points)


Solving Communication Dilemmas at Chargify (Ch. 9).
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at CafeMom (Ch. 10)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 3 (Ch. 9)
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 10)
Exercises

Questions 4 & 7 (Ch. 9)

Questions 4 & 9 (Ch. 10)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 4

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

Page 19

Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Structure of informational reports
2. Structure of analytical reports
3. Distinguish informational reports, analytical business reports, and proposals
4. Explain the difference between drafting a summary, drawing a conclusion and
developing a recommendation
5. Name characteristics of effective report content
6. Describe the communication power that visuals add to your writing
7. List topics commonly covered in a proposals introduction, body, and closing
8. Discuss principles of graphic design that can improve the quality of your visuals
READ
Chapter 11: Planning Reports and Proposals
Chapter 12: Writing Reports and Proposals
Appendix B: Documentation of Report Sources

To be completed
prior to Workshop
6

CASE PREPARATION
Solving Communication Dilemmas at MyCityWay (Ch. 11)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Tellabs (Ch. 12)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)
Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 11)
Question 1 & 2 (Ch. 12)
Exercises

Question 6 & 13 (Ch. 11)

Questions 5 & 8 (Ch. 12)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 5
PARTICIPATION IN CLASS (12 points)

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

Page 20

Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
Explain the importance of oral presentations in your career success
Discuss the three functions of an effective introduction
Identify ways to keep your audiences attention during your presentation
Explain how visuals enhance oral presentations and list several popular types of
visuals
READ
Chapter 13: Completing Reports and Proposals
Chapter 14: Designing and Delivering Oral and Online Presentations
CASE PREPARATION (24 points)
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Garage Technology Ventures (Ch. 13)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Principato-Young Entertainment (Ch. 14)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.

To be completed
prior to Workshop
7
Online

APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)


Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 13)
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 14)
Exercises

Questions 4 & 8 (Ch. 13)

Questions 10 & 12 (Ch. 14)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 6
WRITTEN HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

(24 points)

Complete the collaborative short report. Only one copy per group needs to be
submitted.

See text pages 415-428 for needed sections (will be defined by professor)

6-8 pages (content) on the topic of your choice.

Collaboration on this assignment will be conducted through Group Function or


Discussion Boards.

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

Page 21

Potential Peer Evaluation


Team Name:

Date:

This appraisal form is to be used to evaluate your teammates participation. Please be as objective as possible.
How involved were your teammates in the project? Use the chart below to help determine your answer. Circle
the number that you think best describes the value of your contributions. One sheet per group per assignment.
Showed involvement in the group discussions
Was open-minded and listened to the comments of others
Asked pertinent questions
Lead group discussions
Served as spokesperson for the group
Helped summarize at appropriate points
Drew out quieter group members
Was prepared for group discussions
Participated freely and cooperated to assist the group
Attended group meetings and contributed to the assignment

Name
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor
Poor

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

Ranking
Average
Average
Average
Average
Average

Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent

Page 22

Date

Assignment
OBJECTIVES
1. Define the purpose of application letters and explain how to apply the AIDA
organizational approach
2. Explain the stages of a successful employment interview
3. Identify the most common employment messages that follow an interview
4. Demonstrate your skill in making a persuasive oral presentation
READ
Chapter 15: Building Careers and Writing Rsums
Chapter 16: Applying and Interviewing for Employment
CASE PREPARATION
Solving Communication Dilemmas at ATK (Ch. 15)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.
Solving Communication Dilemmas at Zappos (Ch. 16)
Be prepared to discuss the case questions 1-4.

To be completed
prior to Workshop
8

APPLY YOUR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS/EXERCISES (be prepared to discuss)


Apply Your Knowledge
Questions 2 & 3 (Ch. 15)
Questions 1 & 2 (Ch. 16)
Exercises

Questions 5 & 6 (Ch. 15)

Questions 4 & 8 (Ch. 16)

QUIZ (24 points)


Complete Quiz 7
SPEECH PREPARATION (25 points)
Develop a brief speech outline and prepare a 7-10 minute persuasive speech to
your business communication class. Incorporate oral presentation techniques,
which you learned from the last workshop.
Plan to use PowerPoint slides in your presentation, print out a cop of the slides
for your instructor. Print 4-6 slides per page.
PARTICIPATION IN CLASS (12 points)

LB-300 Business Communication in the Digital Age August, 21 2014

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