Bicol University

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND LETTERS

Legazpi City

COURSE GUIDE FOR GEC-15 - PURPOSIVE COMMUNICATION

Welcome to Bicol University! I would like to congratulate you for being admitted to the
university! Welcome too to GEC-15 –PURPOSIVE COMMUNICATION course. I am Sir
Dennis and I will be your instructor/facilitator in this subject. In addition to welcoming you to
the course, I would like to give you some helpful information and a few hints for a successful
completion of this course.

We are at present doing distance and flexible learning mode of education because of the
limitations brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. This course guide will explain all that
will happen in our course, and, hopefully, make it easier for you to navigate the semester.

For many of you, this is your first experience with a flexible learning platform
particularly an online course. Online courses provide a different way to study and place different
skills for students. You will realize that, as an online learner, self-motivation and discipline are
paramount. This means that you are responsible for establishing and maintaining a regular study
system. Participating in an online course will not entirely be easy. You will be responsible for the
same course materials and the same standards of excellence that are required in the face to face
courses. While this course guide will provide you with support, please be aware that self-
discipline is required and necessary for you to successfully complete GEC-15 – PURPOSIVE
COMMUNICATON.

We will be using, for the most part, Google Classrooms for our classes. To access the
course sites, go to https://classroom.google.com and log in using your BU e-mail account (you
can only access the course site using a BU account; personal Google accounts are not accepted).
Once you logged in, click the PLUS icon on the upper right-hand corner on the screen and click
“JOIN CLASS.” You will then be prompted to enter the CLASS CODE. Below are the codes
corresponding to your block assignment.

Please note that in the course of our PURCOM class, we may use other online platforms
or modes depending on the connectivity and accessibility of everyone in the block. Not all of you
may have a stable internet connection that you can access every day. So let us be realistic. In
distance education, like the one we are doing now, those with fast connections are at an
advantage. They can contribute to the discussion board and participate in online forum whenever
they like. However, I understand that there are students who do not have a signal at home and
need to go somewhere else to get internet. If you are one of these students, please INFORM me
about it so that I can adjust instructional delivery. We will make sure that NO ONE will be LEFT
BEHIND.

1. COURSE INTRODUCTION

GEC-15 – Purposive Communication is a three-unit course that develops

students’ communicative competence and enhance their cultural and intercultural
awareness through multimodal task that provide them opportunities for communicating
effectively and appropriately to a multicultural audience in a local and global context. It
equips students with tools for critical evaluation of a variety of texts and focuses on the
power of language and the impact of images to emphasize the importance of messages
 responsibly. The knowledge, skills, and insights that students gain from this course may
be used in their other academic endeavours, their chosen disciplines and their future
careers as they compose and produce relevant oral, written, audio-visual and/or web-
based output for various purposes.

COURSE INFORMATION

Course Code & Title: GEC-15 – Purposive

Communication
Course Prerequisite: None
Number of Credits: 3 Units
Course Placement: First Year
Semester/Term: Second Semester, School Year
2020-2021
On-Site Schedule:
Online Course Site:

2. COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After finishing this course, you should be able to:

1 Describe the nature, elements, and function of verbal and non-verbal

communication in various and multicultural contexts;
2 Explain how cultural and global issues affect communication;
3 Determine culturally appropriate terms, expressions, and images;
4 Evaluate multimodal texts critically to enhance receptive (listening, reading,
viewing) skills;
5 Summarize the principles of academic text structure;
6 Convey ideas through oral, audio-visual, and/or web-based presentations for
different target audiences in local and global settings using appropriate registers;
7 Create clear coherent, and effective communication materials;
8 Present ideas persuasively using appropriate language registers, tone, facial
expressions, and gestures;
9 Write and present academic papers using appropriate tone, style, conventions,
and reference styles;
10 Adopt cultural and intercultural awareness and sensitivity in communication of
ideas;
11 Appreciate the differences of the varieties of spoken and written language;
12 Adopt awareness of audience and context in presenting ideas; and
13 Appreciate the impact of communication on society and the world.

3. TARGET LEARNERS AND PREREQUISITES

YOU, the learners, are first year Electrical Engineering students. Purposive
Communication is just one of the several courses you will be taking up under the General
Education Curriculum. Since there are many of you, all Electrical Engineering freshmen
were divided into four blocks. Your block assignment was already given to you by the
registrar when you enrolled. Make sure you join the Google Classroom of your block.

As flexible learners coping with the national emergency caused by the COVID-19
pandemic, you automatically subscribe to an asynchronous and synchronous online
 learning process observing the Bicol University System provided in the Student
Handbook. You are expected to abide by the rules of the University and observe the new
norms under this learning system.

As flexible learners, it means:

1. Your pace will depend on your system and regularity in learning. The lesser you
procrastinate, the better for you. Read at your own pace, too. The more frequent you
read, the greater the chances for learning and retention.
2. You have the entire semester to submit your assignments and other requirements. But
remember, as soon as the semester ends, submissions will no longer be accepted. This
works for all students even those without internet connection at home. You may
schedule to be connected and accomplish the requirements with the entire semester as
your timeline.
3. In the spirit of open learning, I encourage you to cross borders, meaning – meet up
with students ONLINE who have the same discipline or course as yours. Learn from
each other. You can create chat groups with your classmates. Be active in online
discussions. Build and maintain a good online presence and reputation.
4. Be responsive to queries as I also do my part in responding to your queries and
concerns. It usually takes one day for me to reply, in whatever mode: SMS, e-mail or
FB Messenger.
5. There will be no quizzes and long exams.
6. Monitor your own progress. Your learning depends solely on you.

4. MODE OF DELIVERY

Ideally, we should all do our class online. However, I understand that not all of you may
have internet access. Thus, students may be classified in terms of connectivity as those:

Group A: with internet access daily or most of the week

Group B: with internet access for only one to three times a week
Group C: who can access the internet less than once a week or have no
internet at all

For those in groups A and B, you probably download this course guide as an e-mail
attachment. Those in group C may have been contacted via their mobile numbers and
received this course guide by picking up the course pack at BU or sent via mail.

Throughout the semester, I don’t think Groups A and B members will have a problem.
You can still make comments on the discussion board even once a week. You can also send
the other requirement with ease. For those in Group C, you can send your assignments via
mail or bring them to BU. We can talk about your participation on the discussion board
through my e-mail and number, which are provided at a later portions of this course guide.

5. COURSE STRUCTURE AND SCHEDULE

Below is the schedule that we will use throughout the semester.

WEEK TOPIC ACTIVITIES

Week 1: ● VMGO of the ⮚ Read the syllabus and course
University guide
● BU Quality Policy ⮚ Familiarize yourself with the
 ● BU Graduates course site
Attributes ⮚ Introduce yourself
● Student ⮚ Read the module
Introductions ⮚ Participate in the discussion
● Levelling of forum
Expectations
● Orientation on the
BU-LMS and
other online
learning platforms
Week 2: Communication ⮚ Read the module
processes, principles and ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
ethics forum postings, learning logs,
vlogs and other online platforms.
● What is language?
● What is
communication?
● Types of
Communication
according to:
- mode
- context
- purpose and
style
● Communication
Models
● General Principles of
Effective
Communication
● Principles of Effective
Oral Communication
● Principles of Effective
Written
Communications: The
7Cs
● Ethics of
Communication

Modes of Communication ⮚ Read the module

⮚ Participate in the discussion via
● Communication forum postings, learning logs,
Modes vlogs and other online platforms.
Communication and
Technology
● Communication in
Social Media

Week 3: Communication and ⮚ Read the module

Globalization ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
forum postings, learning logs,
● The Globalization
vlogs and other online platforms.
Phenomenon
● The Impact of
Globalization on
Communication

Weeks 4 & 5: Local and global ⮚ Read the module

⮚ Participate in the discussion via
communication in
 multicultural settings forum postings, learning logs,
vlogs and other online platforms.
● Definition of Culture
● The Cultural Iceberg
● Intercultural
Communication

Varieties and
registers of spoken and
written language
● Varieties of English
● Language Registers/
Registers of English

Exploring Texts Reflecting

Different Culture

● Cultural Texts
● Formal and Informal
Language

Weeks 6 & 7: Coping with The Challenges of ⮚ Read the module

Intercultural Communication ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
● Challenges of forum postings, learning logs,
Intercultural vlogs and other online platforms.
Communication
● Sources of
Misunderstanding
● Approaches to
studying intercultural
communication

Communication for Various

Purposes

● The explanation essays

● The Blog
● Research-Based
Argumentative Essay

Oral Presentation

● Preparing a speech or
oral report
● Delivering the report/
speech/ talk
● Presenting in Groups
● Overcoming anxiety or
stage fright

Weeks 8 & 9: The Debate ⮚ Read the module

● Types of Debate ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
● Skills Needed in forum postings, learning logs,
Debate vlogs and other online platforms.
● Ethical Considerations
● Dress Code and
Appearance

WEEK 10: OCTOBER 11-17, MIDTERM EXAMINATION

Weeks 11 & 12 Literature as ⮚ Read the module
 Communication ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
forum postings, learning logs,
● Understanding
vlogs and other online platforms
Literature

Weeks 13 & 14 Communication Across ⮚ Read the module

Professions ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
forum postings, learning logs,
● Written Modes of vlogs and other online platforms
Professional
Communication
● Genres across
professions
● Business letters,
Memoranda, Minutes
of Meetings
● Business Proposal
● Social Media Channels

Weeks 15, 16 & 17 Communication for ⮚ Read the module

academic purposes (e.g. ⮚ Participate in the discussion via
research based journal or forum postings, learning logs,
magazine article, etc.) vlogs and other online platforms

● Essentials of Research
Writing
● What is research?
● Basic Steps in Writing
Research Paper
● Qualities of Effective
Researchers

WEEK 18 – FINAL EXAMINATION

6. COURSE REQUIREMENTS / ASSESSMENT ACTIVITIES

There are three main course requirements in our class: class participation, term projects
and the two major examinations. The projects will be given in advance to give you ample
time to prepare. The midterm and final examinations will depend on the topics covered prior
to the dates of examinations. In most cases, one final requirement is asked to reflect all
the learnings acquired during the semester which can already serve as the final examination.
The assignments given after some topics can be submitted in your most convenient time
but not after the semester is over.

Another requirement is class participation in the form of posts in the discussion’s boards
in the Google Classroom. However, other online platforms will be considered depending on
your accessibility. Discussions will be based on the varied topics included in the course
syllabus or this course guide. I will post a question or situations and you will answer or
react to them. You are expected to comment on the posts of your classmates.

Those who have regular internet access may contribute to the discussion every day.
Those who cannot go online daily are not necessarily at a disadvantage because you can still get
good grades as long as you answer the question and comment on the posts of your
classmates. For example, if you can access the internet only once a week, do it on Fridays
or Saturdays so that you will have many posts from classmates that can be commented
on.
 The challenge is for those with zero access. You will need to call or send me a text
message, so I can tell you what to do as an alternative to the weekly discussions. Rest
assured that I will do everything not to place you at a disadvantage. Just communicate with me.
We will find a way.

7. GRADING SYSTEM

You grades will be computed as follows:

Midterm Weight in Tentative Final Weight in

% %
Class Standing 40% Class Standing (participation in 40%
(participation in online online discussions; submission
discussions; submission on on online assignments,
online assignments, worksheet outputs, etc.)
worksheet outputs, etc.)
Term Project 20% Term Project 20%
Midterm Examination 40% Final Examination 40%
TOTAL 100% TOTAL 100%
Midterm Grade (50%) + Tentative Final Grade (50%) = FINAL GRADE

8. LEARNING RESOURCES

Our main learning material is the module prepared for this course. It is divided into 10
lessons corresponding to the learning contents specified in the syllabus. The entire
module is the contents of our Google Classroom. A PDF version, however will be provided
to those without internet access and those who shall request for it.

You should not rely solely on the module, though. You are encouraged to read more on
the lessons using other materials that you can find online or offline. The module may miss
out on some things so reading other materials will enhance your knowledge more.

9. REFERENCES

o “Communication: Meaning, Purpose, Importance and Principles.” The Next Generation

Library.
https://www.yourarticlelibrary.com/management/communication/communication-
meaning-purpose-importance-and-principles/60291, Accessed 28 July 2019.

o “The Four Main Purposes of Communication” (2016). UK Essays.

o Abrams, R. Successful Business Plan: Secrets and Strategies. Rewood, CA: Planning
Shop, 2010

o Adler, R. Elmhorst, J.M., & Lucas, K. Communicating at work: Strategies for success in
business and the professions. N.Y.: McGraw Hill. 2012

o Axelford, R. & Cooper, C. The St. Martin’s Guide to Writing, 10th ed. Bedford/St.
Martin’s, 2013
o Barrot, Jessie S. & Sipacio, Philippe John F. (2018) Purposive communication in the 21st
century. Quezon City: C & E Publishing Inc.

o Barrot, Jessie S.,Purposive Communication in the 21st Century, C & E Publishing

Inc.,Quezon City, 2018

o Biber, D. & Conrad S. Register, Genre and Style. Cambridge: Cambridge University
2009

o Bullok, R. & Goggin, M. The Norton Field Guide to Writing, 3rd ed. W.W. Norton and
Company, 2013

o Chase, R. & Shamo, S. Elements of Effective communication, 4th edition, Washington,

Utah: Plain and Precious Publishing, 2013

o Dainton, M. & Zelley E. Applying communication theory for professional life. A

practical introduction 3rd ed. Sage publication. 2015

o Lucas, S. The art of public speaking. NY: McGraw Hill. 2011

o Madrunio, M. & Martin I. (2018) Purposive communication: using English in

multilingual contexts. Quezon City: C & E Publishing Inc.

o Madrunio, M. & Martin, I. Purposive Communication: Using English in multilingual

contexts, C & E Publishing Inc. 2018

o Madrunio, Marilu R., Purposive Communication Using English in Multilingual

Contexts,C&E Publishing,IncQuezon City,2018

o Magan, Rhodora G. et.al. Purposive Communication in the 21st Century, Mindshapes

Co., Inc, 2018

o Manalo, Paterna E. and Fermin, Virginia E., Fundamental Speech Communication for
Filipinos. Mandaluyong City: National Bookstore, 2006.

o Miller, K. Communication Theories: Perspectives, Processes, and Contexts. 2nd ed. NY:
McGraw Hill 2004

o Mooney, A., Peccei. J. S., La Belle, S. et. al. Language, society, and power: An
Introduction, 3rd ed. London: Routledge. 2010

o Moser, Susanne C. “Communicating for a Purpose: Communicating for Change.”

Stanford University, Webinar Series. https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-
06/documents/part_2_-_overview_communicating_with_a_purpose.pdf, Accessed 29
July 2019.

o Pandita, R. (2012, January 7). Impact of communication technology on globalization.

Retrieved February 16, 2016What is Globalization? | Globalization101. (2015). Retrieved
February 16, 2016, from http://www.globalization101.org/what-is-globalization/
o Searles, G. Workplace Communication: The basics. Boston: Allyn & bacon, 6th ed. 2014

o Suarez, Cecilia A. (2018) Perfecto, MR G., Canilao, ML N., et al. Purposive

communication in English, Ateneo de Manila University Press.

o Wallace, C. Critical Reading in Language Education, Basingstoke and New York:

Palgrave MacMillan, 2005
 o West, Richard; Turner, Lynn H., Understanding Interpersonal Communication.
International 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning, 2009.

o Wood, Julia T., Communication Mosaics An Introduction to the Field of Communication.

3rdEdition. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth/ Thomson Learning, 2004.

10. OTHER GUIDELINES / NETIQUETTE

The policies listed below may change throughout the semester, depending on the
country’s health situation and other concerns. You are responsible for learning about these
changes. Announcements shall be posted on the Google classroom.
ETHICAL POLICIES
You are expected to act with decorum in communicating with me and your classmates,
either one-on-one or in the discussion boards. Proper netiquette is expected. For more
information, see: https://www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/netiquette-guidelines-every-online-student-needs-to-
know/

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY

Since we are holding classes in the distance mode, I have no way of knowing if it’s really
you preparing the assignments or posting on the discussion boards. Please just be honest.
Also, plagiarism shall not be tolerated. Students caught submitting papers copied from
others and presenting them as their own shall be given a failing grade. For more
information, see: https://www.plagiarism.org/article/what-is-plagiarism
POLICIES ON ABSENCES AND TARDINESS
As we are currently using the distance mode of education, there are no physical classes
unless the university administration finds it safe already to have classroom lectures. For
the meantime, we shall study asynchronously so attendance will not be taken. However,
there shall be point deductions for tardy submissions of requirements.
LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION
Given the nature of our course, the language of instruction is English. Filipino may be
used with the permission of the teacher from time to time. Bikol is discouraged because
students come from various provinces with different dialects.
USE OF THE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The class shall use the Google classrooms I created. For security purposes, only those
with BU e-mail accounts will be allowed to enter the virtual classrooms. Thus, never forget
your BU account.
USE OF MOBILE PHONES AND GADGETS
Since we are using the distance mode of learning, you are expected to have the necessary
gadgets to access course materials. If you have problems accessing the course site,
inform me immediately through my contact points shown at the end of this course guide.
SPECIAL EXAMINATIONS
Special exams will be given on a case-to-case basis. Inform me if you cannot submit the
requirements on time.
 ACCOMMODATION
Since the entire world is dealing with a pandemic, accommodation shall be extended to
those who may not be able to access the course site regularly or submit requirements on
time. Students should contact me for specific concerns that may affect their academic
performance.
STATEMENT ON STUDENT WELLNESS
Student wellness shall be our utmost priority. If a course requirement will impact your
health, inform me immediately.

ADVISING AND SUPPORT

You may contact me anytime for advising and support. The use of e-mail is
recommended, but students without Internet connection may call or send text
messages. I will strive to reply to concerns promptly, but there may be instances when
replies may take some time. This can happen when queries are sent in the middle of the
night or during weekends.