Common Course Outline

Catalog Description

Course Description

This introductory course is skill based and designed to provide basic communication strategies to build positive relationships in career settings. It focuses on developing skill sets in active listening, perception, conflict management, nonverbal awareness, and non-defensiveness. The goal is to create confidence and competence in various communication contexts, such as customer service, work teams, interviews, and personal relationships. Attention is placed on interpersonal communication, team/small group communication and public speaking.

Date Last Revised (Month, year)

December, 2024

Outline of Major Content Areas

1. Interpersonal Communication
2. Assertive message/I statements
3. Listening techniques/Paraphrasing
4. Perception checks
5. Non-defensive approaches/Positive communication climate
6. Nonverbal communication
7. Interview Skills
8. Team/Small Group Communication
9. Conflict management skills
10. Roles and norms formation
11. Leadership styles
12. Decision making techniques
13. Public Speaking
14. Communication anxiety
15. Organizing and supporting messages

Learning Outcomes (General)

The student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate communication skills appropriate for career and personal settings,
2. Adapting messages to specific audiences.
3. Explain various team/group behaviors and roles.
4. Apply appropriate verbal and nonverbal strategies.
5. Implement strategies to reduce communication apprehension.

Learning Outcomes (MnTC)

NA

Methods for Evaluation of Student Learning

Methods may include but are not limited to:

• Skill based demonstrations
• Written assignments
• Self-evaluations
• Projects
• Quizzes

RCTC Core Outcome(s)

This course contributes to meeting the following RCTC Core Outcome(s):

Communication

Students will communicate appropriately for their respective audiences.

Special Information (if any)

None