Interpersonal Communication (CMST& 210 Section S) Fall 2018

Course Syllabus – Section 2664

Instructor: Derek Jorgenson (he/him/his pronouns)
Email: djorgenson@everettcc.edu
Office: GWH 208
Office Hours: by appointment
Phone: 425.388.9506
Class Meeting and Location: – Mon/Wed 5:00-7:10 pm in GWH 368

Course Description

This is an introductory course designed to help develop your understanding of interpersonal communication in
a variety of situations. This course will include exposure to some fundamental communication theory relating
to social, family, and work situations. Topics covered include: the process of communication, self-concept,
listening, language usage, gender issues, conflict, self-perception, and communication competence. You will
apply these principles in assignments, through class interaction, group activities, and quizzes/exams.

EvCC Core Learning Outcomes: Communicate effectively

You will develop the organizational and research skills necessary to write and speak effectively. This includes
demonstrating awareness of different audiences, styles, and approaches to oral and written communication.

Student Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Demonstrate critical thinking skills in oral and written critiques of communication concepts in the
following areas: perception, emotions, language, nonverbal communication, listening, intimacy, conflict.
2. Identify correctly terms and concepts associated with interpersonal communication.
3. Exhibit a variety of communication skills in their interactions with other students in class discussions.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of effective communication skills in the workplace and
in social relationships.

Textbook

Looking Out, Looking In 15th ed. By Adler & Proctor (paper or digital versions are acceptable, no extras are
required) ISBN #1-305-07651-6

Access and Accommodations

I, along with the College, will make reasonable accommodations for persons with documented disabilities.
Students should notify the Center for Disability Services office (located in Parks 267, right across from the
bookstore) and their instructors of any special needs. Instructors should be notified as soon as possible.
Classroom Philosophy

This is a participative class where you will be asked interact with fellow students about assigned readings,
classroom activities and your own ideas and applications of course content. Therefore, it is vital that you keep
up with reading and be physically and mentally present in class. This format is highly interactive rather than
lecture focused. In order to go into depth on key topics and give opportunities for increased interaction, I will
not lecture on all of the text content. Please ask questions in class that might apply to everyone, or send me a
message or stop by my office hours. I am happy to meet with you!
Please, be sure to regularly check our Canvas page and familiarize yourself with how it is organized.

Classroom Policies

Technology policy: Unless medically required, please refrain from using electronic devices during regular class
discussions. Phones, laptops, and other technologies tend to distract more than enhance the learning process
unless they are incorporated into the process. If your technology proves to be a distraction (to me, yourself, or
others) I will ask you to turn off the device and put it away. If it becomes a recurring problem, I will ask you to
leave class and you will be counted absent for the day.
Late work, except in rare and extreme situations, will earn no points. However, I will provide feedback on your
work, especially when it will inform your future assignments. In-class activities and assignments cannot be
made up if missed due to unexcused absences.

Attendance

In-class activities and discussion are an important element in our discovery and development of interpersonal
communication skills. As a result, attendance is essential to the learning process. You can earn up to 100
points in the course through attendance and participation. You are allowed one unexcused absence without it
affecting your grade. Each additional unexcused absence will result in a ten point deduction from the
attendance points. Tardiness will result in a loss of five points from your attendance grade. In-class activities
with point values cannot be made up.

Assignments and Grade Distribution (approximate)

• Quizzes and Exams, 25%

• Group Projects, 15%
• Application/Reflection Assignments, 25%
• Research/Review Assignments, 25%
• Attendance/Participation, 10%

Quizzes/Exams

There will be two exams and a number of online chapter quizzes that will total approximately 250 points. All
the quizzes and exams, including the final, will be completed in Canvas rather than in the classroom.

Group Projects (two)

In small groups, you will research concepts, compose a report, and present your findings to the class. Detailed
instructions will be made available in Canvas and discussed in class.
Individual Improvement Project

This quarter long project allows you to examine and better understand your interpersonal communication
habits and patterns within a specific relationship. It also reveals how you can apply the concepts from this
course to improve your life and communicate more effectively.

Final Exam

The final exam for our class will be available on Canvas for approximately one week. It is the online equivalent to a take-
home test.

Grading Scale

A = 93-100%
A- = 90-92.9%
B+ = 87-89.9%
B = 83-86.9%
B- = 80-82.9%
C+ = 77-79.9%
C = 73-76.9%
C- = 70-72.9%
D+ = 67-69.9%
D = 63-66.9%
D- = 60-62.9%
F = below 60%