C223 is a course designed to familiarize students with the dynamic and
complex relationship between organizations and their surrounding
communities and cultures. Organizations have been credited with any
number of negative developments in society (e.g., Exxon destroying the
environment), as well as a considerable positive advances (e.g., Green
Peace saving the environment). Emphasizing the student's role as a
thoughtful producer and consumer of communication, this class will
focus on how individuals, organizations, and cultures can be
influenced to enhance community life.

Students in C223 will examine communication behaviors commonly
occurring in organizational settings, as well as developing the skills
needed for effective communication in diverse organizational contexts.
Students will study theories of leadership, ethics, culture, learning,
persuasion, group dynamics, and civic engagement. Cultivating the
skills necessary to communicate effectively with diverse audiences
will increase students' awareness of the underlying communication
processes (both verbal and nonverbal) necessary for organizational
success. C223 students will participate in a variety of communication
activities, including an informational interview (playing the role of
interviewer), a group or team presentation that focuses on an
organizational or community problem and its solution, and two or more
public presentations that involve some form of persuasion or advocacy
(e.g., a speech that advocates the boycotting of some product,
company, or policy). In addition to oral assignments, students will be
asked to develop a set of interviewing questions, to collaboratively
develop a team/group agenda, to write a speaking self-critique, and to
complete other exams an/or short written projects. Finally, effective
listening and critical thinking skills are emphasized throughout the
course.