Course Summary

Theory and experience in human communication

The course examines five forms of human communication: interviewing, public speaking, prayer, visionary presentations, and conflict recognition. Included are (1) techniques of field interviewing, public speaking, prayer, visionary presentations, and conflict detection, (2) training in the ability to interview, speak publicly, pray, cast a vision, and detect potential violent situations, and (3) interpreting non-verbal communication. The goal for this course is that students develop specialized communication skills and apply those skills in their personal and professional lives. 3 semester hour credits.

Objectives

Module 1. Research, organize, and conduct interviews. Summarize the results in essays.

Module 2. Analyze a biblical sermon, critique a sermon, deliver a sermon, and submit a mentor's report.

Module 3. Construct a variety of prayers based on biblical models.

Module 4. Research, organize, and compose a report assuming a leadership role.

Module 5. Apply communication skills suitable to topic, purpose, and audience.

Credit. Credit for the course requires a score of 70 percent or greater on the submissions for each of five modules. Each is valued at 20 percent of the final course grade.

Resources. Resources needed for this course include the syllabus and books on the theory and practice of select forms of communication. Needed resources are available in the Electronic Collection without cost to the student.  However, if substitute hard copy books are preferred, the following are recommended. If other substitutes are made, they should cover the general subject matter indicated in the titles and should represent no fewer than 500 pages of reading.

Bednarz, Timothy. Creating & Sustaining a Strong Vision. Pinpoint Leadership Skill Development Training Series. Majorium Business Press, 2011. 60 pages. $16.95. ISBN--978-1882181384

Beebe, Steven A. and Susan J. Beebe. Public Speaking: An Audience-Centered Approach. 7th ed. Allyn & Bacon, 2008. 491 pages. $25. ISBN--13:978-0205543014

Chester, Tim. The Message of Prayer: Approaching the Throne of Grace. A vol. of Bible Speaks Today. IVP Academic, 2003. 272 pages. $18.83. ISBN--13: 978-0830824083

Corvette, Barbara A. Budjac. Conflict Management: A Practical Guide to Developing Negotiation Strategies. Prentice Hall, 2006. 336 pages. $28.81. ISBN--13:978-0131193239

Perlich, Martin. The Art of the Interview: A Guide to Insightful Interviewing. 3rd ed. Silman-James Press, 2007. 131 pages. $10.45. ISBN--13:978-1879505933