Course Syllabus

Department of Communication Studies: Spring 2021

Section 1553 : Arranged Hours Online, Canvas

Instructor: Jewlz M. Shaffer                                                    

E-Mail: Shaffer_Julie@smc.edu (Please DO NOT send assignments through email all assignments must be submitted via Canvas)

Format of class: Flexible class (i.e., few synchronous activities- if ZOOM sessions, they will be recorded)

Office Hours: (Open)- Visit the Instructor's Virtual Office for general course related questions or (Schedule) a Zoom appointment by sending a request via Canvas Messages. *Zoom Office Hours are available Tuesdays from 1-3pm PST and Thursdays 2-4pm PST)

 

Framing Thoughts  

• “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller 
• “Learn to speak by listening.” – Rumi 
• "Individual commitment to a group effort--that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work." --Vince Lombardi 
•  u·bun·tu : (ˌo͝oˈbo͝on(t)o͞o/ ) noun 
  • I am because we are. 
  • A quality that includes the essential human virtues; compassion and humanity. 

 

Required Texts and Materials:

We will use the following textbook: Beebe, S. A. & Masterson, J.T. (2015). Communicating in small groups:  Principles and practices (11^th Ed). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

 *The book is available on Canvas (Getting started module & in Files) and does not need to be purchased*

 

Course Description and Objectives 

This course focuses on the identification and analysis of processes and challenges of communication as affected by small group interactions. This course helps students develop competence and confidence as a group member and leader through a combination of theoretical and practical knowledge of small groups in everyday life. The course focuses on the principles of communication theory as they apply to the small group setting with an emphasis on practical application through study and practice in various group activities.

Course Objectives: COMST 16 will provide you with both a theoretical understanding of and practical experience with small group communication  

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

1. Define key terms and concepts in small group communication theory.
2. Identify and discuss specific issues in small group communication.
3. Demonstrate the ability to express a supported message effectively in a small group communication setting.
4. Demonstrate the ability to listen empathically, actively and critically to messages in the small group setting.
5. Differentiate among the major principles and theories of small group communication and their application to real or simulated communication acts.
6. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of real and simulated small group processes.
7. Demonstrate the ability to approach decision-making and problem-solving using a systematic and thorough approach.
8. Demonstrate an understanding of differences in norms, values, and verbal and nonverbal behaviors of males and females and of distinctive cultures as they relate to small group interaction.
9. Identify and discuss the sources of small group conflict and demonstrate the ability to manage such conflicts effectively.
10. Assess and evaluate a group meeting for its effectiveness.

COMST 16 Student Learning Outcomes

1. In a group, identify a problem, establish criteria for developing a solution, and design and implement the solution.
2. Plan, prepare and present a well-organized, clear, and interesting presentation as a group.

 

Class Decorum, Expectations, & Student Responsibilities:

Attendance Policy: Regular attendance and participation are expected, and you should note that participation and grades are highly correlated in this class. This means that your success as a student in this course is dependent on your active participation and engagement throughout the semester. As such, students are required to complete all assignments and discussion posts by the deadline If you fail to submit an assignment/assessment/discussion by the deadline it will not be allowed to be submitted late unless there was a documented excused absence or other arrangements were made in advance with the instructor’s permission. Except in the very rare case of last-minute emergencies (e.g.: you were taken to the emergency room), you should let your instructor know about any excused absences and make arrangements for making up any missed work in advance.

Our SMC course catalog’s “Attendance Policies” section states, “Since attendance is essential for normal progress in a class, a student is expected to be in class regularly and on time.” Online courses are no different from in-person courses in terms of attendance. Online students are subject to the same attendance policy and procedures as traditional students. However, participation is defined in a different manner. Student attendance in online courses is defined as active participation. Online courses will, at a minimum, have weekly tasks for student participation, which can be documented by any or all of the following methods:

• Completion of tests or quizzes
• Discussion forums
• Submission/completion of assignments
• Peer Responses
• Or other course participation

*** This means that if you do not submit a class assignment and/or discussion by the deadline you will be marked absent for the day. One Missed Assignment = One Absence Note: Nonattendance without an excused absence may affect financial aid as you may be dropped from the course. If a student fails to meet these attendance requirements for one week of the course, he or she will be given an absence for that week.

The absence policy for this class is as follows:

• On your 6th unexcused absence (one absence= one missed quiz/exam/assignment/discussion post) or after two consecutive weeks with no assignments submitted, you will be dropped from the class, I would try to save any absence for sick days and emergencies only.  
• If you do not post or submit a class assignment/discussion post the very first week of class Monday- Sunday you will be dropped.

Additionally, students are expected to:

• Log in to each online course by the second day during the week in which the course officially begins, or the day enrolled during late registration to complete the initial introductory postings required in the course.
• Log on at least three times a week – on different days in order to completely weekly assignments, assessments, discussions and/or other weekly deliverables as directed by the instructor and outlined in the syllabus;

• Participate in the weekly threaded discussions, this means that, in addition to posting a response to the thread topic presented, students are expected to respond to each other and comment and questions from the instructor and/or other students;
• Frequently read all course news announcements and emails from the instructor (daily is recommended). Students are solely responsible for checking updates related to the course. 

If you find that you cannot meet the class' minimum discussion requirements due to such a circumstance, please contact your instructor as soon as possible.  Students will not be marked present for the course in a particular week if they have not posted on the discussion forum and/or submit assignment/essay or complete assessment if administered in that week. 

Late Work and Incomplete Grade Policy: Unless otherwise announced, all assignments are due by the due date on CANVAS. ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED VIA EMAIL unless prior arrangements were made with the professor or there is a documented excused absence attached. Also, you should NOT expect to be allowed to turn in assignments via email or later in the day for full credit as technical problems and confusion surrounding due dates will not serve as an excuse, therefore mange your time, reach out when you are confused about course deadlines, and plan accordingly. Class assignments (including speeches, quizzes, discussions, and exams cannot be made up unless you have a documented, excused absence.

If possible, you should notify your instructor in advance if you are going to miss class and the reason for your absence.   It is your responsibility to provide written documentation from a third party of your emergency or excused absence. Work-related absences, work in other classes, oversleeping, technical issues are not considered personal emergencies. Incomplete grades will not be given in this class except in rare, extenuating circumstances.

The above policy is used to ensure that every student is ready for an examination or presentation on the day assigned. The benefit of this policy is fairness to all students who work hard to get assignments in on time and prepare for exams well in advance of the scheduled date. In order to adhere to our tight schedule, it is imperative that all students meet their assignment/examination responsibilities.

 Please note: Time management will be an important component of the course. Learning skills in time management will help you complete assignments in an efficient and relaxed manner.

Withdraws:If a student permanently leaves a class, According to the official college policy, “the responsibility to withdraw from a class is the students. Informing the instructor is not sufficient notice. Failure to submit a withdrawal notice to the admissions office could result in a grade of ‘f.’” In other words, if you do not withdraw with admissions, you will receive an “F” in the course at the end of the semester even if you stopped attending in the first two weeks.

Academic Honesty: Academic Honesty is assumed. Students are responsible for understanding and adhering to University policies regarding academic honesty, as specified in the current SMC Catalog. Consult the Code of Academic Conduct to know what constitutes academic dishonesty and the consequences for such acts. Cheating in any form or plagiarizing any part or parts of any oral or written work is automatic grounds for receiving a failing grade on the assignment and the student will be reported to student affairs. Examples of academic dishonestly include but are not limited to someone else writing your assignment, turning in an essay that you found online or cheating during an exam. Students MUST properly cite any and all information utilized from books, websites, journals, interviews, etc.  Students MUST cite using APA or MLA citation guidelines. If you are unsure as to what constitutes plagiarism, I am happy to help you!  PLEASE DON’T CHEAT.  YOUR OWN WORK IS BOUND TO BE PRESENTED AND RECEIVED BETTER THAN THE STELLAR CREATION OF SOMEONE ELSE.  TRUST YOURSELF TO DO WELL ON YOUR OWN!

The following is a wonderful resource to help you properly cite and avoid plagiarism: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/

Communication Policy: Santa Monica College officially communicates to students using electronic mail (e-mail) and Canvas Message/ Announcements.  E-mail and Canvas provide a cost-effective, timely, and environmentally sensitive means of communicating College business and academic information. Students are expected to access their SMC e-mail account on a daily basis so that official college and department communications are delivered and received in a timely manner, and students do not miss important communications. Note: Faculty and students are held accountable for official information sent to their college issued email accounts.

Please send all communications through our Canvas Platform and/or Canvas Messages. 

Please do not contact me through your personal email. All communication must be via Canvas Messages or your SMC student email. You can address me as Professor Shaffer and I prefer she/her pronouns. It's really important to be respectful of one another as we are all human beings.  This means learning to communicate more formally, just as you will when you graduate and begin your career.  When communicating with me via technology follow these guidelines:

• Professional Message Guidelines: Many questions can be answered by using the syllabus, announcement section, Canvas 24/7 support, and our Virtual Office + Q&A forum. It is suggested that you use these tools often. However, sometimes you will need more personalized support and I am here to support you.  If you need to send me a message
  • Please send all messages through Canvas Messages
  • Further when sending a message, make sure that on the subject line you provide the following information: The course (i.e.COMST16), your full name, and (in one or two words) the topic of your inquiry.
  • Remember that emails to your instructor should be professional so please revise your grammar and make sure you have a greeting and signature of some sorts. Finally, I do not respond to questions about grades via email. If you wish to discuss a grade you must do so during my virtual office hours
• Professional Video/Audio/Chat Guidelines for Office Hours:  Please be prepared for your office hour appointment. Have your questions ready and email anything that you want your professor to look at during office hours prior to your scheduled appointment. Remember that communication with your instructor should be professional. You can chat with me via video, audio, or chat on our conference platform. Make sure you have a strong internet connection. 

Course pace: Each week you’ll have to complete multiple assignments. I would like to suggest you check Canvas at least every other day to ensure you stay on top of everything. Make sure to check my weekly announcements that  include a breakdown of what we'll do that week. I suggest you read them carefully! 

What are the weekly due dates:  Most due dates will fall on Thursday and Sunday. Keep in mindForum Discussions have two due dates: Your own original post is due mostly on Thursday and your replies to classmates' posts are due by Sundays. 

How are group projects graded this semester? You will be graded as one, but only if you pull your share of the weight. No one will be able to ‘skate on the coattails’ of others and succeed. Grades will not be distributed until I have read all group peer evaluations. I reserve the right to assign individual grades on group projects if it becomes clear that one member did not contribute equally. 

Group communication: Each group will have its own Canvas shell. This will allow you to communicate with one another and keep track of the group's progress.

Classroom Behavior: Our goal in this class is to foster a respectful and safe environment for everyone to feel comfortable expressing their ideas. As a result, you are expected to show respect at all times for your classmates and your instructor. Treat others the way you would want to be treated. When asked to provide feedback on your classmates' speeches, please exercise empathy and use positive reinforcement and constructive feedback. This class relies on all of us to be supportive; therefore, it is assumed that we will all abide by these respectful rules. This includes remaining professional on ZOOM meetings, encouraging classmates and refraining from any rude or distracting behaviors. I will NOT tolerate any form of intimidation, offensive language, threats and/or disruptive behaviors in class. You will be asked to leave the class if you cannot adhere to these rules. 

Grades:  The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. As a result, grades will not be discussed over email or in class when other students are present. Please make an appointment with me if you wish to discuss your grade or overall progress in the class (Read this for more information about FERPA laws here: http://www.smc.edu/EnrollmentDevelopment/Admissions/Pages/FERPA.aspxLinks to an external site.)

Your grades will be recorded on Canvas so you can track your progress in the class. The assignments in this class reflect your personal experiences applied to particular subjects/concepts, consequently, there is no reason why you should compare your grade to someone else’s in the class. You all bring something unique to the class and I evaluate your journey in this class individually. In addition, I will meet with students to discuss their grades 24 hours after you have received them and not the day they are returned. If a student is on the cusp between one grade and another, I reserve the right to adjust grades based on participation in class (e.g., if a student receives a final grade of 79.99%, he/she/they may be given a B if he/she/they have made a significant contribution to the class. However, if that is not the case, the grade will remain as is).

I would be more than happy to offer feedback and discuss ways you can improve your performance in the class throughout the semester. However, at the end of the semester, there isn’t much I can do to help you. So, please be proactive and come see me during the semester. Also, I do not negotiate grades. At the end of the semester, the same rule applies. The points you accumulated throughout the semester are simply added and translated into a letter grade. The grade you receive reflects the points you earned.

Writing Mechanics: Academic writing mechanics are to be followed. Your writing must be clear and concise. If your writing is unclear and full of grammatical/spelling errors, it becomes difficult to understand your argument; therefore, your grade will be affected. Seek out guidance at the writing lab if you have some difficulty with written assignments and/or come see me so we can talk about resources and strategies to support you in your academic journey.

Disability-related needs-- I will make academic adjustments for students with documented disabilities.  Please check out the Center for Students with Disabilities' webpage, if this applies to you. Although their office is closed for in-person contact, you will still be able to reach them by:

1. Phone at (310) 434-4265
2. Email at dsps@smc.edu
3. If you know your counselor or  LD/ABI/HTTC Specialists, please directly contact them via email ( Last_first name@smc.edu) or by phone.  You can find their contact information hereLinks to an external site. 
4. If you have any questions concerning interpreting services, please directly contact Denise Henninger, DHH Supervisor by email at Henninger_Denise@smc.edu or by text at (818) 570-3813

I will work with this office to provide you with reasonable accommodations. Please provide a letter of accommodation from Disability Support Services as soon as possible. 

SMC Campus Resources: SMC makes every effort to provide useful resources to help you in your academic success. So, please do not hesitate to use these wonderful resources available to you on campus found here. 

Extra credit: Extra credit opportunities might be offered throughout the semester to offer ways to connect class concepts to real-life issues/problems and to join the SMC community around important issues. Please note the following policy.

Title IX: Santa Monica College and this academic department welcome students from all over the world with various backgrounds and life experiences. SMC is committed to fostering a safe and productive learning environment. SMC has zero-tolerance for discrimination, and/or sexual harassment, which includes sexual misconduct such as, domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, sexual exploitation, and stalking. Any sexual violence or physical abuse, as defined by California law, whether committed by an employee, student, or member of the public, occurring on college-owned or controlled property, at college-sponsored or supervised functions, or related to or arising from college attendance or activity is a violation of District policies and regulations, and is subject to all applicable punishment, including criminal and/or civil prosecution and employee or student discipline procedures.

SMC Students assume an obligation to conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the college’s function as an educational institution, which respects the rights of others to learn, and to acknowledge the academic freedom to teach and communicate in an environment that fosters learning and creativity. With that in mind, it is important to keep a respectful tone and attitude when communicating and interacting with your colleagues. You are the only you. No one else will have your sensibilities of what is funny or interesting. Part of being respectful is also realizing that someone else may be offended by something you think is “every day normal.”

Students who have experienced some form of sexual misconduct or discrimination are encouraged to talk to someone about their experience, so they can get the support they need. To learn more about support available for students, please seehttp://www.smc.edu/StudentServices/SVPE/Pages/What-is-Title-IX.aspx. You can also call Lisa Winter, Compliance Administrator Title IX Coordinator, at 310-434-4225.

Equitable Learning Environment Statement: Santa Monica College embraces a notion of intellectual community enriched and enhanced by diversity along a number of dimensions, including race, ethnicity and national origins, gender and gender identity, disability, sexuality, class and religion. We are especially committed to increasing the representation of those populations that have been historically excluded from participation in U.S. higher education.

Gender Expression and Identity Statement:    If your name or pronouns vary from what the school may have on the roster please let me know so that I can make appropriate changes. I honor your identity. I will always do my best to address and refer to all students accordingly. 

Student Well-Being Statement: As a student, you may experience a range of issues that can negatively impact your learning, such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal or sexual violence, difficulty eating or sleeping, loss/grief, and/or alcohol/drug problems. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance and affect your ability to participate in day-to-day activities. In order to support you during such challenging times, SMC provides a number of confidential resources to all enrolled students, including The Center for Wellness and Wellbeing (310-434-4503 / Liberal Arts Room 110) and the Student Ombuds (310-434-3986 / ombuds@smc.edu). The Center for Wellness & Wellbeing also offers a 24/7 phone line that provides in-the-moment emotional support: (800) 691-6003.

Veterans Statement: The Veterans' Resource Center at Santa Monica College serves veterans entering college for the first time or returning to college to further their education. The office acts as a liaison with the Veterans Administration verifying enrollment for students claiming benefits under the G.I. Bill or the Veterans’ Vocational Rehabilitation Program. It also can also assist the veteran with referrals to various veteran-serving programs in the West Los Angeles area. The center is located in the Liberal Arts Building Room 135. If you would like additional information, please call (310) 434-8205.

Undocumented Students/DACA Statement:  Santa Monica College stands with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office—and hundreds of other educational and business organizations—in affirming that our "Dreamer" students are as integral a part of our community as anyone else. Here at Santa Monica College, we remain committed to serving our Dreamers, to helping them fulfill their life’s dreams and aspirations; this college will continue to be a safe environment for all students and personnel. We will work to provide the greatest support to students affected by this decision, and campus and student leaders alike have already rallied in solidarity as well as to provide resources. SMC joins the Chancellor’s Office and all the other voices that will advocate determinedly in Congress for an effective solution to this issue, to end a cruel and unnecessary action that goes against the interests of local communities and our country at large.

Religious Observances: I respect the faith and religious obligations of all members of the SMC community.  Students with exams, assignments, or classes that conflict with their religious observances should notify me well in advance so that we can work out a mutually agreeable alternative. 

Important Note:  This syllabus is presented as a contract. By accepting this syllabus, you are accepting all of the requirements and expectations as described. The instructor reserves the right to adjust, change, or add to the syllabus, course requirements, or individual assignments as she sees fit. You are responsible for any changes announced in class whether or not you are there. The instructor also reserves the right to adjust grades both up and down based upon the subjective assessment of elements such as citizenship, participation, diligence, and improvement in class performance, among others, described in the schedule of classes and the school catalog.

 

Course Assignments and Grades

One Online Readiness Survey (5  ): Complete this survey the first week of the semester. 

Weekly Check-ins (5 points each/ 45 pts total):  In this class, I require weekly online check-ins.  It's kind of like taking attendance in class, so be sure to participate each week.  This is also the place to let us know how things are going.  The questions asked will vary throughout the semester. Some of these check-ins will have you interact with everyone in the class and others will allow you to communicate only with your groupmates. Weekly check-ins are always due on Fridays. 

Group Peer Evaluation Forms (25 pts each= 50 pts total): After your “___ing” Activity Group Presentation & your Final Group Project, you will complete a team evaluation addressing the group processes and dynamics at play in your groups. Further instructions will be provided. 

Forum Discussions (5 FDs: 10 points each/50 pts total): These will allow you to communicate with your peers and reflect on the content presented in that section. To receive full credit you must post a minimum of three responses: one original post from you that answers the questions AND respond to at least two of your classmates' comments. These forum discussions give you a chance to interact with your classmates and engage in discussions outside of class. Each post should be longer than a couple of sentences and should demonstrate depths, critical reflection, respectful communication and engagement with the readings/concepts. The forum discussions will be accessible/open a week prior to their due dates on Canvas. Note: These forum discussions usually have two due dates (First one: Tuesday of that week- students post their original posts & Second one: Thursday of that week- students will reply to their classmates). Some of these FDs will have you interact with everyone in the class and others will allow you to communicate only with your groupmates. Please check the syllabus & schedule. 

Reading Quizzes (9 quizzes: 10 points each/ 90 pts total): Readings for this class are not optional but mandatory.   To ensure that you are all keeping up with the readings, you will complete reading quizzes throughout the semester. You will be asked 5 questions based on the readings for that day (sometimes based on one chapter, other times based on two chapters depending on the assigned readings for the day). The quizzes will be visible throughout the semester, so if you want to plan ahead, you can take them at your own pace. However, please know you cannot take a quiz after its due date. There are no make-ups or extension for the reading quizzes.  If a student misses a reading quiz or completes it after the due date, he or she will receive a failing grade on that quiz. The first one you'll take is the Syllabus quiz. Completing it will unlock access to Week 1 module. 

"___-Ing Activity Presentation (100 pts): This assignment requires you to engage in some virtual activities to get to know your groupmates. You will then create a PowerPoint presentation demonstrating completion of these activities and reflecting on group dynamics. This is a group grade (unless someone did not contribute to the project planning process to warrant the same grade).

The Band Implosion Paper Analysis (100 pts): Using a popular band, you will write a thoughtful analysis of group dynamics/theories as found in the band. More instructions can be found on Canvas.

Final Team Project (200 pts): In your semester-long groups, you will create a “company” and deliver a sales pitch speech to the class. Further instructions can be found on Canvas. This is a group grade (unless someone did not contribute to the project planning process to warrant the same grade).

Grading: The class grade is based on 650 points possible as follows:

Online Readiness Survey                                    5 pts

Weekly Check-ins                                               45 pts

Group Peer Evaluation Forms                            50 pts

Forum Discussions                                              60 pts

Chapter Quizzes                                                  90 pts

“___-Ing” Activity Group Presentation              100 pts

The Band Implosion Analysis                             100 pts

Final Team Project                                               200 pts

 

 

 To view our Full COMST16 Schedule Preview click here.

As a reminder please always check our Monday morning weekly announcement for the most up to date details, due dates, and information. (Schedule is subject to change)