Speech Courses

102. Fundamentals of Oral Communication.
Fall and Spring (2,2) King. Exclusively for freshmen and sophomores.
An examination of oral communication within a variety of contexts, including interpersonal, small group, public and intercultural communication. The course will focus on techniques to achieve competency and on the development of other communication skills such as listening, participating in discussions and critical thinking.

150W. Freshman Seminar.
Spring (4) King.
A course designed to introduce freshmen to topics in Speech. Four credits when satisfying the freshman writing requirement.

 201. Public Speaking.
(GER 6) Fall and Spring (3,3) Bauer, Eckles, King.
Understanding and application of the principles of public speaking. Analysis of speeches based on organization, content, and delivery.

205.  Oral Interpretation of Literature
(GER 6) Fall (3) Bauer
Students will engage in a highly experiential study of literature through the intensive development of analytical ability and vocal and physical performance skills.  Students will study, explore, and perform from the major literary genres of prose, poetry, and drama.

 309. Argumentation and Debate
(GER 6) Fall (3) Eckles.
Training in the techniques and practices of argumentative speaking, study and analysis of debate propositions, preparation of the brief, research and selection of evidence, and practice in rebuttal and refutation. Lectures and class debating.

310. Principles of Group Discussion.
Spring (3) Staff.
Study of logical and psychological foundations of discussion as a method of dealing with public questions, considering problems of adjustment, communication and collaborative action in small groups. Emphasis on principles, types and methods of discussion. Lectures and practice participation.

311. Fundamentals of Communication Theory.
Spring (3) Eckles
An examination of various theories of communication and application of those theories or specific social events. Attention will be given to the function of communication models, the dimension of inter-personal and intra-personal communication, nonverbal elements of communication, and analysis of attitude, change and theory.

312. Persuasive Speaking.
Spring (3) Staff.
Study of the principles of persuasive speaking, motivation of the audience; the development and organization of the persuasive message; the place of persuasive speeches in persuasive campaigns. Students will give several persuasive speeches.

410. Special Topics in History and Criticism of American Public Address.
Spring (3) Staff. Prerequisite: SPCH 201 or consent of the instructor.
Survey of significant speakers, speeches, or speech movements. Critical analysis of important rhetorical phenomena in their historical, political, social, and philosophical contexts

 411. Independent Studies.
Fall or Spring (1-3) Staff.
Independent study on a special problem for the advanced student, arranged on an individual basis with credit according to work done. Course may be repeated for credit.