Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - CMNS 110 D100

Introduction to Communication Studies (3)

Class Number: 1011

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 15, 2024: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to selected theories about human communication. This course is required for a major, honours or minor in communication. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to some of the key concepts and themes of communication theory, which has been influenced by a wide range of disciplines. Each of the texts on the syllabus engages with key aspects of what John Durham Peters calls “the problem of communication”.  Texts in the course reflect on the manner in which individuals and societies make and exchange meaning, the systems that govern that exchange, the contexts that influence how meaning is made, or the technologies we use to aid (or obfuscate, in some cases) communication.  Students will become familiar with a range of theoretical traditions that have influenced the development of communication studies in North America, will develop critical thinking and reading skills, and will come to understand the place of theory within academic research and the production processes.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

The course aims to help students approach communication critically and to question its place in their own everyday lives.  Thus, at the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Identify and summarize major theories of communication.
  2. Demonstrate critical thinking in their media analysis and writing assignments.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of what research questions in communication studies look like, especially when they start undertaking their own research.
  4. Create materials, assignments and research questions incorporating language and key concepts in communication studies.

Grading

  • Participation 10%
  • 2 Short papers 30%
  • Synthesis Paper 30%
  • Final Exam 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Required readings will be available as PDFs on Canvas.  Any material that is not on Library Reserve can be found online in an academic journal through the Library's website. In cases of texts that are easily available via the web, the link will be posted on the class schedule.  Should you be unable to access the site, please contact the Instructor immediately.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.