RGU: RGU Module: Communication Principles And Theory (BS1292)

Module Title
Communication Principles And Theory

Keywords
Communication Process, mediation, models and contexts, codes, feedback barriers, verbal and non-verbal communication

Reference

BS1292

SCQF Level

SCQF 7

SCQF Points

ECTS Points

7.5

Created

March 2010

Approved

August 2010

Amended

August 2012

Revision No.

Prerequisites for Module

None in addition to SCQF 7 entry requirements or equivalent.

Corequisite Modules

None.

Precluded Modules

None.

Aims of Module

To promote a critical understanding of the underlying principles of different kinds of communication and to develop awareness of the role of the behavioural sciences in the communication process.

Learning Outcomes for Module

On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:

1.	Describe a range of models that explain the communication process.
2.	Recognise and discuss essential principles and concepts within the communication process.
3.	Apply communication principles to practical professional contexts.
4.	Produce written communication that is clear, coherent, literate and appropriate to purpose and target audiences.
5.	Demonstrate a professional sense of procedure and presentation in writing assignments, in meeting deadlines and in proof-reading and revising documents before submission.

Indicative Module Content

The module will examine essential postulates of communication. It focuses on the elements of the communication process introducing students to the concepts of context, mediation, codes, feedback and barriers. The role of theories and models such as the Process School and the Semiotic School is examined, with examples. Contexts such as intrapersonal, interpersonal, group, organizational, and mass communication are studied. Relationships between organisational structures, and forms, and channels and media of communication are considered. The role of plain English, writing for specific purposes and audiences are examined and professional standards in written and oral communication emphasised.

Indicative Student Workload

Contact Hours	Full Time
Lectures	15
Tutorials/seminars	12
Surgery	15
Assessment	20
Directed Study
Directed Study	30
Private Study
Private Study	58

Mode of Delivery

This is a lecture based course supplemented by tutorial and seminar sessions. Students will prepare for seminars, contribute to seminar discussions and engage in student-centred activities (e.g. directed reading, exercises).

Assessment Plan

	Learning Outcomes Assessed
Component 1	1,2
Component 2	3,4,5

Component 1 is an essay (50% weighting)

Component 2 is a portfolio and group presentation (50%)

Indicative Bibliography

1.	FISKE, J., 1990. Introduction to communication studies. London: Routledge.
2.	HARTLEY, P., 1999. Interpersonal communication. 3rd ed. London: Routledge.
3.	HARTLEY, P., and BRUCKHAM, C. G., 2002.Business communication. London: Routledge.
4.	PRICE, S., 1996. Communication studies. Harlow: Longman.
5.	WINDAHL, S. et al., 2009. An introduction to planned communication. London: Sage.