CMM 315
Group Communication
Instructor: Linda Cole
Office SH245
Phone: 696-3539 (office) 736-6334 (home)
E-Mail: colel@marshall.edu
Office Hours 12:00 to 1:00 MWF
Text: Small Group and Team Communication, Harris. Thomas E., and Sherblom, John
C., Third Edition
Course Philosophy: As human Beings we communicate in group settings from birth until
death. We are born into families and we are socialized in groups throughout our lives.
A knowledge of group dynamics is central to becoming an effective communicator in
business, education, social groups and civic organizations to name a few. This course will
focus on theories related to group communication and will include assignments to help the student become more competent and comfortable in group settings.
Attendance: Attendance is mandatory. Class attendance and participation will make up part of the student’s grade. All absences are not acceptable unless there is a justifiable reason.
University excused absences are exceptions. Because this is a Group class, group activities cannot be made up. Please refer to the Marshall Handbook regarding weather related closure of the university.
Outcomes and Objectives:
When finished with this course the student should be able to:
a. define Group Communication
b. describe how groups operate
c. discuss the types of relationships that occur within groups
d. describe different models of group communication
e. describe different theories of group communication
f. describe the role of group communication in the work place.
Evaluation of Learner Outcomes:
During the course the student will:
a. complete two quizzes and one exam. The tests will cover material in the textbook, material from handouts and information provided in course lectures.
b. participate in a number of class exercises designed to apply concepts discussed in class
c. complete two group presentations
d. complete a semester long journal. Each journal will be comprised of one and ½ to two
page weekly entries. Each journal will monitor the experiences of the student related
to time spent with the group
Grading Policy: Grades will be calculated on a straight scale:
90 - 100 = A
80 - 89 = B
70 - 79 = C
60 - 69 = D
Assignments:
Two Group Presentations worth 100 pts each
A Journal worth 150 pts
Two Quizzes worth 25 pts each
One exam worth 50 pts
Attendance worth 150 pts
University Policy for Students with Disabilities: Marshall University is committed to equal opportunity in education for all students, including those with physical, learning and psychological disabilities. University policy states that it is the responsibility of students with disabilities to contact the Office of Disabled Student Services (DSS) in Prichard Hall 117,
phone 304-696-2271 to provide documentation of their disability. Following this, the DSS coordinator will send a letter to each of the student’s Instructors outlining the academic
accommodation he or she will need to ensure equality in classroom experiences, outside
assignments, testing and grading. The Instructor and student will meet to discuss how the
accommodations requested will be provided. For more information, please visit
http://www.marshall.edu/disabled or contact Disabled Student Services at Prichard Hall ll.
As a courtesy to other students as well as to the instructor, please turn off cell phones upon entering the classroom.