SPE 100. FOUNDATIONS OF COMMUNICATION
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

SPE 100 is the study of language as a verbal system of communication. Listening, interpersonal forms of communication, discussion and large group communication are emphasized. The study of meaning as it relates to oral communication and presentation is also discussed and practiced.

SPE 101. PUBLIC SPEAKING
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

This course is devoted to the study of oral communication as it relates to the speaker, her/his purpose, subject, outline, presentational aids, delivery and audience. The first part of the course emphasizes the theory of public speaking, while the latter part is concerned with the analysis, preparation and performance in the areas of informative, demonstrative, persuasive and occasional speaking.

SPE 102. ORAL INTERPRETATION OF LITERATURE
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

Basic techniques of reading aloud, the relation of appreciation to interpretation, and the evaluation, analysis and selection of prose, poetry, children’s literature and drama are explored. Emphasis is on the general improvement of oral performance skills.

SPE 110. PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
1 lec. 0 lab. 1 cr. hr.

Parliamentary procedure is a study of the methods of transacting business in deliberative assemblies and clubs, the uses of various motions, the methods of conducting elections, the duties of members and officers, constitutional construction and parliamentary terms.

SPE 111. TAKING THE TERROR OUT OF PERFORMANCE
1 lec. 0 lab. 1 cr. hr.

This course is designed for those who fear speaking or performing in front of an audience. It will explore the origin and extent of each individual’s anxiety and offer practical suggestions for dealing with all types of performance apprehension.

SPE 115. EFFECTIVE LISTENING
1 lec. 0 lab. 1 cr. hr.

An introduction to the field of listening. Students will develop an awareness of the process and role of listening in oral communication. In addition, attention will be paid to analyzing and improving therapeutic, critical and appreciative listening.

SPE 116. INTERVIEWING TO GET THE JOB
1 lec. 0 lab. 1 cr. hr.

This course provides straight-forward, practical advice on developing communication skills needed to effectively prepare for a job interview. Students will benefit from mock interviews using the most-often-asked questions by interviewers.

SPE 201. PERSUASION: ARGUMENT AND EMOTION
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

A course devoted to the theory and practice of persuasive techniques in oral communication. Special emphasis is on the role of evidence, logic, fallacies, emotions, style, organization and delivery in oral persuasive communication.
Prerequisite: SPE 101 or permission of the instructor.

SPE 210. DYNAMICS OF DISCUSSION
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

This course offers an introduction to the principles and techniques of discussion in small groups, with emphasis on the development of effective participation by group members. Includes principles of discussion, problem solving, the analysis of evidence and group dynamics, and a study of participation and leadership skills and attitudes.

SPE 211. COMMUNICATION THEORY
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

A non-performance study of the communication components that confront each person. An in-depth study of attitude, language, non-verbal forms, propaganda, rumors and semantics serves as the focal point. The concepts are analyzed and discussed from both intra- and interpersonal positions and with an implication to society at large.

SPE 212. VOICE AND ARTICULATION
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

The study of the human vocal mechanism and articulators with special emphasis on practical application. Students will identify and demonstrate proper breathing, vocal quality, volume, consonant/vowel/diphthong articulation, pitch, rate and duration.

SPE 219. INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION
3 lec. 0 lab. 3 cr. hrs.

This course will explore the methods by which people of various races, cultures, genders, religions, socio-economic backgrounds and sexual orientations communicate verbally and non-verbally. Students will develop the skills necessary to build and maintain positive communication across cultures. Students will focus on similarities and differences in communication behaviors and they will explore how perceptions, language usage, nonverbal style, thinking modes and values influence communication between individuals of different cultures. By the end of the course, students will more fully understand their own cultures, as well as intercultural communication in their community, place of employment, country, world and in the media.

SPE 271. SPECIAL STUDY PROJECT I
1 cr. hr.

A special learning experience designed by one or more students with the cooperation and approval of a faculty member. Proposed study plans require departmental approval. Projects may be based on reading, research, travel, work experience, or other activities that advance the student’s knowledge and competence in oral communication, theatre or related subjects. The student’s time commitment to the project will be approximately 35-50 hours.

SPE 272. SPECIAL STUDY PROJECT II
2 cr. hrs.

Similar to SPE 271, except that the student’s time commitment to the project will be approximately 70-90 hours.

SPE 273. SPECIAL STUDY PROJECT III
3 cr. hrs.

Similar to SPE 271, except that the student’s time commitment to the project will be approximately 105-135 hours.