Communication Courses
Please note that the frequency of course offerings below is subject to change without notice, because of changes in faculty availability, sabbaticals and leaves, and other circumstances. Please consult the latest Schedule of Classes (and supplement), myBerea, revisions to online Catalog & Student Handbook, and/or the Program Coordinator to determine if a course will be offered during a certain term or year, especially if Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a factor.
COM 100
Intro to Communication
A skill approach to the study of communication. Students will deliver speeches and participate in interpersonal communication exercises and activities to increase competence in assertiveness, expressiveness, and skills that enhance communication. Students will learn effective listening. 1 Course Credit
COM 103
Competitive Debate Practicum
Offered: Typically Fall and Spring terms
Intensive study of public speaking through experience in co-curricular speech and debate activities. Students will participate in competitive intercollegiate speech and debate, as well as on-campus speaking activities, and will receive individual and group training in oral communication. May be repeated for credit up to one (1) full course credit.
COM 103A
Comp Spch & Interp Practicum
Offered: Fall and Spring terms
Intensive study of public speaking through experience in co-curricular speech and interpretation activities. Students will participate in competitive intercollegiate speech and interpretation events, as well as on-campus speaking activities, and will receive individual and group training in oral communication. May be repeated for credit up to one (1) full course credit. 1/4 Course Credit
COM 103B
Competitive Debate Practicum
Offered: Fall and Spring terms
Intensive study of argumentation and public speaking through experience in co-curricular debate activities. Students will participate in competitive intercollegiate debate, as well as on-campus speaking activities, and will receive individual and group training in oral communication. May be repeated for credit up to one (1) full course credit. 1/4 Course Credit
COM 186
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
COM 201
Argumentation and Debate
An examination of the theory and process of argumentation and debate. Students investigate and participate in reasoned advocacy with emphasis on evidence selection, analysis, and critical decision making, inference, and refutation. Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
COM 203
Persuasion
The study of the art of developing means of persuasion. Students will investigate scholarship from both humanistic and behavioral perspectives to learn about processes of social influence. Designed to help students become astute consumers of persuasion and to improve their persuasive writing and speaking skills. Practical Reasoning (PR). 1 Course Credit
COM 206
Interpersonal Communication
The study of human communication as a foundation of personal identity and growth, as well as a means of interacting with others. Students will examine theories of the interpersonal communication process; consider how gender, culture, and social context affect communication; and assess the effectiveness of their own interpersonal communication. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 101. 1 Course Credit
COM 207
Intercultural Communication
An examination of the relation of culture and communica¬tion. Students will study the fundamental themes and theories of communication among members of diverse cultures. Students will engage in learning experiences intended to develop their skills in constructive intercultural communication. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 102. 1 Course Credit
COM 211
Broadcast Journalism I
A gateway course to the broadcasting minor. It offers basic skill instruction in camera operation, lighting, audio, broadcast directing, and single and multiple-source editing with emphasis on underlying principles of video technology. At the end of the course, students will also have a thorough knowledge of broadcasting writing, including interviewing and script development. Arts Perspective. 1 Course Credit
COM 220
Theories of Communication
Offered: Typically annually
Survey of theories of communication. Students investigate communication models and theories pertaining to interpersonal, intercultural, nonverbal, group, organizational, and mass communication. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 300. Social Science Perspective. 1 Course Credit
COM 221
Civic Engmnt & Social Advocacy
Summer Course Only
Course Description: Civic engagement and social advocacy are at the core of Berea's mission, and statistics show that students who engage with their local communities in a learn and serve capacity have higher retention rates and GPAs. In that vein, this course is designed as a service learning course that will allow students to work with AIDS Volunteers of Lexington (AVOL) to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. Research shows that AIDS Awareness is on the decline, so much in fact that many high school and college students know little to nothing about the AIDS crisis from the 1980s and its impacts on modern culture. Students in this course will not only learn about the history of HIV and AIDS in America but will also be afforded the opportunity to develop print materials, video materials, awareness campaigns, and work as community organizers for AVOL.
COM 222
Per St:Telling Stories (THR)
Prerequisites: GSTR 210
Performance studies is a way to communicate to an audience through the performance of aesthetic texts such as prose, poetry, and drama. By combining these genres in a single performance, the emotional, intellectual, and aesthetic impact can be enhanced. In this class students will learn analytical, creative, and performance skills as they incorporate written and oral reflection and analysis to develop performances that combine published work with their own texts to effectively communicate an audience.
COM 228
Doc. Mining Modern Appalachia
Summer Course Only
Course Description: Students will analyze coal mining in Appalachia from multiple perspectives. The course will serve as a comparison analysis of the economic factors versus the cultural, social, and environmental impacts of coal mining. The course is designed to be two-tiered: during tier one, students will be on campus for two weeks studying holistic effects of clean coal, mountaintop removal, environmental variables, jobs and the economy, as well as Appalachian culture. Tier two will serve as a learning laboratory in which students are on the road for the last two weeks in Appalachian communities developing a documentary of those communities affected by coal mining. This lab will provide students with the ability to study interview methodology, videography, editing, documentary filmmaking techniques, framing shots, script writing, and developing an appreciation for Appalachia.
COM 284
Wrkshp-Composition/Rhet (ENG)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered 2013-2014)
A course that allows students to further explore and practice writing skills in topics such as written argumentation, prose style, and research writing. Conducted as a workshop, with student and instructor criticism of work. May be repeated for credit, provided the topic differs from those previously studied. 1 Course Credit
COM 286
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
COM 302
Organizational Communication
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2014)
The study of communication in organizational life. Students will explore research and study theories that focus on the function of communication in nonprofit, civic, service-related, and corporate cultures. 1 Course Credit
COM 305
Interracial Communication(AFR)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2013)
An examination of the role of communication in the construction of race as a basis for similarity/difference; the ways that communication about race form a basis for individual, cultural, and national identities; and theories about interracial and intercultural communication. Considers communicative dynamics of interracial conflict, friendships, intimate relationships, families, and work relationships through readings, discussion, writing- and research-based assignments, and media examples. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 386: Interracial Communication in Spring 2009.
1 Course Credit
COM 310
Communication and Gender (WGS)
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Spring 2014)
An examination of the role of gender in communication at the interpersonal, public, and cultural levels. Includes the study of historical and contemporary scholarship on gender; media representations of femininity and masculinity; similarities and differences in communication styles among the genders; and the role played by communication in the shaping of gender. African Americans', Appalachians', and Women's Perspective. 1 Course Credit
COM 311
Broadcast Journalism II
Offered: Typically alternate spring terms
An advanced workshop course in the modes, practice, and ethics of broadcasting with a dual focus on talent and production. The workshop will feature exercises in: anchoring, interviewing, lighting and audio design, editing, live set management, and news programming. While developing knowledge and skills, students will also be challenged to engage in critical thinking and reflexivity as they learn how to develop accurate, ethical, and engaging multimedia news programming. 1 Course Credit
COM 312
Mass Communication
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
The study of the relationship between mass communication and mass culture. Students examine the dynamic nature of print and electronic media, with specific attention on how television affects cultural norms and choices. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 202. 1 Course Credit
COM 315
Public Relations
Offered: Typically alternate years (next offered Fall 2013)
Emphasizes both the theory and practice of public relations by exploring the evolution of the field, the range of roles and responsibilities public relations practitioners assume in a variety of settings, the significant issues and trends that have shaped the practice of PR, and by providing an opportunity to create from scratch a PR campaign for a local community partner. Addresses the ethics of public relations practice and how values shape an organization's ability to build successful relationships with its publics. NOTE: Noncredit for students who completed COM 386P: Public Relations in Fall 2009. 1 Course Credit
COM 386
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
COM 390A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
COM 390B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
COM 395
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
COM 397A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
COM 397B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
COM 398
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
COM 410
Senior Seminar-Communication
Offered: Typically every Fall Term
An advanced seminar, normally taken in the senior year, with readings and research leading to the production and presentation of a formal research paper or project. NOTE: Noncredit for students who have completed COM 400. 1 Course Credit
COM 486
Special Topics
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course designed to meet the particular interests of student and faculty. Topics vary from year to year. See course description in the "Schedule of Classes."
COM 490A
Independent Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
COM 490B
Independent Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 390/490A; others will be 390/490B.
COM 495
Internship
Offered: Typically every term
An experiential learning experience individually designed for students with a special academic interest requiring integration of classroom learning with practical experience. Includes on-campus seminars with academic sponsors, as well as non-classroom experience. One to 3 course credits in one regular term; 1.5 course credits in Summer One Term; or 1 to 2 course credits in Summer Two Term may be taken in Internships. Requires the approval of two faculty sponsors and the Program assumes the responsibility for determining credit allowance. The Coordinator of Internships gives final approval for Internship proposals. All Internships meet the Active Learning Experience (ALE) requirement.
COM 497A
Team Initiated Study
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
COM 497B
Team Initiated Study w/o ALE
Offered: Typically as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course initiated, directed, and organized by the student and the faculty sponsor. Course proposals must meet the guidelines and approval of the Academic Department or Interdisciplinary Program in which the study will be conducted. A detailed information sheet is available in the Student Self-Service room (101 Lincoln), which includes the form to complete if seeking Active Learning Experience (ALE) credit. A course syllabus must be submitted with the Chairperson or Director’s approval before the course can be registered. Those approved as ALE will be registered as 397/497A; others will be 397/497B.
COM 498
Directed Study
Offered: Typically on a limited basis as student interest and faculty availability allow
A course organized and directed by faculty and approved by the Program Director or Department Chairperson to meet the particular interests and/or needs of specific students.
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This online publication is the official text of the Berea College Catalog & Student Handbook. Berea College reserves the right to amend, revise, or modify content within this publication at any time.


