CMNS 2171 - Interpersonal Communication

Course Description

Students learn a range of theories and perspectives related to interpersonal communication. Emphasis will be on understanding the importance of effective interpersonal communication to establishing and maintaining relationships as well as achieving goals in social and workplace environments. Students assess the use of interpersonal communication in given scenarios and are encouraged to reflect on and improve their own interpersonal communication skills. This study of interpersonal communication includes several contexts, including the workplace, social and family environments.

Learning outcomes

• Explain the basic assumptions and characteristics of key theories and perspectives related to interpersonal communication.
• Explain the importance of interpersonal communication as a key factor in social, cultural, and workplace communication contexts.
• Describe the role of communication in defining the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships.
• Analyze based on theory the effectiveness and appropriateness of particular interpersonal communication strategies in a given situation or scenario.
• Apply principles and approaches to interpersonal communication effectively to particular communication scenarios based on context, goals, and needs.
• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your own interpersonal communication skills.

Course topics

• Module 1: The Interpersonal Process
• Module 2: Communication and the Self
• Module 3: Perceiving Others
• Module 4: Emotions
• Module 5: Listening
• Module 6: Language
• Module 7: Non-Verbal Communication
• Module 8: Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships
• Module 9: Communication Climate
• Module 10: Managing Conflict
• Module 11: Communicating with Family
• Module 12: Work, Group, and Team Communication

Required text and materials

Students are responsible for purchasing the required materials on their own:

• Adler, R. B., Rosenfeld, L. B., Proctor, R. F., & Winder, C. (2020). Interplay: The process of interpersonal communication (5^th Canadian ed.). Don Mills, ON: Oxford University Press.
  Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-0-19-903347-8

Note: This item (Bundle: Interplay) can be purchased directly from Campus eBookstore via Wolfie's Campus Store.  

Assessments

To complete this course successfully, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Exam.

Exclusions

• CMNS 2170