Topic outline

  • COURSE INTRODUCTION

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    • Time: 20 hours
    • Free Certificate
    This professional development course will give you an overview of human communication, its components, practices, and theories. At the heart of this course is the process of human communication and appreciating the nature of the communication transaction between individuals. You will investigate forms of human communication, the communication process, and principles and theories used to assess and explain communication practices.

  • Unit 1: Communication Study

    This first unit will equip you with the fundamentals to comprehend communication and demonstrate how to apply the study of communication in your life effectively. For instance, understanding communication principles can enhance your ability to navigate workplace interactions, negotiate effectively, and build strong interpersonal relationships.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.

  • Unit 2: Verbal Communication

    Unit two will clarify the definition of verbal communication, distinguish the differences between written and oral communication, and illustrate how verbal communication functions in our lives. For instance, imagine participating in a lively debate where spontaneous verbal exchanges fuel the discussion, fostering a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. In contrast, an email thread might lack the same energy level and rapid interaction, shaping communication dynamics in diverse situations.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 5 hours.

  • Unit 3: Nonverbal Communication

    Like verbal communication, nonverbal communication is vital in our everyday interactions. In this unit, you will explore how nonverbal communication functions in assisting us in our communication. For instance, analyzing body language cues, facial expressions, and gestures can provide valuable insights into understanding someone's emotions, intentions, or reactions during a conversation.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

  • Unit 4: Perception and Communication Ethics

    In our personal, professional, and public lives, there will always be occasions when we see things differently from others. In this unit, you will learn why diverse perspectives exist and how they impact our communication with others. For example, consider a workplace scenario where individuals from different departments may have contrasting views on a project's priorities, influencing how they communicate and collaborate. This unit will also help you understand the importance of clearly presenting information. You don't have to look too far today to see examples of unethical communication. Social media outlets like Facebook and Twitter are trying to prevent "fake news" from being posted and shared.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 4 hours.

  • Unit 5: Communication Theories

    In this concluding unit of the course, you will explore diverse communication theories. Acquiring an understanding of communication theories can empower you to analyze and enhance interpersonal communication, public speaking, and various communication contexts encountered throughout the course. For instance, applying social penetration theory can deepen your comprehension of relationship development, facilitating more effective interpersonal communication.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 8 hours.

  • Course Feedback Survey

    Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses. If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org.

  • Certificate Final Exam

    Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

    To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt. Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.