Archived
Academic Calendar
Fall 2017
Academic Calendar Fall 2017
Communications
Placement Test Scores
For information on the Composition Placement Test please visit Assessment Services (ufv.ca/Assessment).
Assignments
As presentation is an important element of professional
communications, several courses require all or a number of assignments to be typed or word processed.
Prerequisites
For equivalencies of the prerequisites listed below, contact the department head.
Note: Students who do not have a prerequisite for first year Communications courses should take CMNS 099.
CMNS 099 with a grade of C or better is a prerequisite for English 105, or any first-year Communications course.
Critical Analysis and Study Methodology
Students interested in Communications
courses may also be interested in the following:
CSM 104 — Integrated Academic Learning Skills
CSM 108 — Critical Analysis and Learning
CSM 208 — Learning Methodology
For more information regarding these courses, please see the Academic Support courses section.
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English language proficiency requirements Students registering in post-secondary level courses (numbered 100 to 499) will be required to meet the English language entrance proficiency requirements. Students in ELS or the University Foundations programs can register in those courses identified in the University Foundations program with lower levels of language proficiency. |
3 credits
Technical Communications for Trades
Prerequisite(s): Admission into a trades program
This course is an introduction to the general principles and techniques of effective communications required in the workplace. Common written and oral communications on the job (including customer and co-worker relations) are the focus of the course including messages, simple reports, definitions, descriptions, instructions, and employment applications (forms, letters of applications, and resumes). The course also examines the barriers to effective communications and how these barriers can be reduced.
3 credits
Communicating Professionally to Academic and Workplace Audiences
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: C+ or better in English 12, CPT score of 48, or evidence of any test score or course grade listed under the Degree/diploma-level English language proficiency standards in the UFV academic calendar at www.ufv.ca/calendar/Fall-2017/General/EnglishProficiency.htm.
This course introduces the theory and practice of professional communications for academic and workplace audiences.
Emphasis is on the communication process, and on direct, indirect, and persuasive messages and presentations.
Research, citation/documentation styles, document design and electronic messaging are also studied and practiced.
Note: Students with credit for CMNS 155 cannot take this course for further credit.
3 credits
Interpersonal Skills Workplace
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: C+ or better in English 12, CPT score of 48, or evidence of any test score or course grade listed under the Degree/diploma-level English language proficiency standards in the UFV academic calendar at www.ufv.ca/calendar/Fall-2017/General/EnglishProficiency.htm.
An introductory course focusing on interpersonal communication primarily between two people and within small groups. Students will reflect on how their own behaviours and responses affect others. Basic skills for workplace contexts, including customer/client relationships, will be practiced and applied.
3 credits
Technical Communications for Drafting
Prerequisite(s): Acceptance into Architectural Drafting Technician certificate program, or CPT of 48 or better and permission of instructor.
This course provides an introduction to general principles of effective written and oral communication. The focus is on commonly used reports (e.g., progress, field, site investigation) and technical correspondence.
3 credits
Writing for the Internet
Prerequisite(s): CPT score of 48 or better, or evidence of any accepted test score or course grade listed under the English Language Proficiency Standards published in the UFV calendar and listed on the UFV website.
This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of writing for the Internet. Students will study the particular challenges posed by online communication, and explore approaches and technologies that make possible effective communication to a networked audience.
3 credits
Introduction to Intercultural Communication
Prerequisite(s): None
In this introduction to intercultural communication theory and practice students will learn and apply concepts relating to cross-cultural knowledge, awareness, and understanding as they emerge in communication situations. They will develop their knowledge of verbal and non-verbal intercultural skills. Students will learn about their own cultural worldview and identity; investigate similarities and differences among their own and other worldviews and identities; practice intercultural skills; and learn about the importance of self-reflexivity, flexibility, and mindfulness in their intercultural interactions.
3 credits
Introduction to Portfolio Development
Prerequisite(s): Same as for CMNS 125; see CMNS 125 for details
This course provides students with the opportunity to develop a learning portfolio and improve oral presentation
skills. The course will focus on reflective writing approaches, individual thinking processes, learning principles,
as well as designing portfolios for future audiences, developing individual and group oral communication
abilities, and creating the learning portfolio. Students will create a written and/or electronic portfolio
using a process that will include reflection on formal learning, work, and life experiences.
Note:
Students cannot receive credit for CMNS 200 and ADED 200.
3 credits
Introduction to Media and Public Relations
Prerequisite(s): One of CMNS 115, CMNS 125, CMNS 145, CMNS 155, CMNS 175 or ENGL 105.
Getting a tailored message to a specific target audience in today’s complex media environment requires analysis,
creativity, and skill. This course examines the communications process, the public relations environment,
and both new and mainstream media engagement.
Note: This course is offered as CMNS 212 and MACS
212. Students may take only one of these for credit.
3 credits
Public Speaking
Prerequisite(s): None
This course focuses on the principles and psychology of effective speaking. Specific areas include informal
presentations to small groups, formal presentations, meeting management, workshop facilitation the use of
presentation aids, developing the voice, and improving body language. Videotaped feedback is an important
part of the course.
Note: Instructors require 80% attendance for this course. Regular participation
and attendance at meeting speaking dates are required.
3 credits
Professional Report Writing
Prerequisite(s): One of CMNS 115, CMNS 125, CMNS 145, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
Advanced skills for short to mid-length reports in both print and digital formats. Students learn to research, interpret, organize, and evaluate information. Document design, accurate documentation of sources, responsible use of rhetoric, and clear and purposeful writing are strongly promoted.
3 credits
Environment: Science and Communications
Prerequisite(s): One of: CMNS 125, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105; plus GEOG 103 or any first-year lab science course.
Environmental science and communications, while different fields, are both essential for addressing contemporary
environmental problems. This course, team-taught by faculty in Geography and Communications, introduces the
student to the methods of scientific inquiry, and the principles of effective communication in environmental
science. Application of the scientific method to case studies of environmental issues will highlight challenges
and possible solutions at local, regional, and national scales, while exploring the interface between science,
politics, and popular perceptions. Specific consideration will be given to developing strategies for communicating
with various audiences, including stakeholder groups, other scientists, policy makers, and the general public.
A field trip outside of class time may be required. Please refer to the Department of Geography website for
scheduling information.
Note: Students with GEOG 211 may not take GEOG 257/CMNS 257 for further
credit.
3 credits
Team and Small Group Communication for the Workplace
Prerequisite(s): CSM 108, or one of the following: CMNS 125, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
Workplace communication often requires both team and small group interactions. This course expands on skills learned in introductory communication courses by specifically addressing oral and written strategies used when working in teams and/or groups. A focus woven throughout the course will be on diversity and the development of group cohesion and task outcomes. Students will learn principles and practices used for group communication applied to both a face-to-face and virtual context. The course will examine how to assess when group vs. individual work should be used. It will focus on group/team development, membership, leadership, mentorship, and the dynamics of collaboration. Verbal, nonverbal, and listening techniques and strategies will be covered.
3 credits
Introduction to the Practice of Journalism
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CMNS 125, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
This course covers the fundamentals of news writing and reporting as demanded by newsrooms across all forms
of media. The course is writing intensive and requires outside journalistic investigation including interviewing
and basic fact gathering. A wide variety of forms will be explored, from image selection, headline, lead,
and caption writing to articles based on the coverage of news events. Students will also practice writing
feature stories as well as assessing local reactions to national events and issues.
Note: This
course is offered as CMNS 300 and JRNL 300. Students may take only one of these for credit.
4 credits
Advanced Practice of Journalism
Prerequisite(s): CMNS 300/JRNL 300 or 45 university-level credits including one of CMNS 125,
CMNS 155,
CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
This course applies journalism skills to other media formats including radio, television, and the internet.
It provides a practical introduction to the technologies and techniques of digital media communication, including
video, still image, sound capture and manipulation, internet-based publishing and research, digitizing, editing,
and archiving. In the workshop/labs, students will have the opportunity to explore writing across various
news genres, writing for the web, developing on-air voice delivery as “news anchor” and “remote reporter”,
selecting interview clips, designing graphics and transitions, and presenting final products.
This
course is offered as CMNS 301 and JRNL 301. Students may take only one of these for credit.
3 credits
Public Relations Campaigns
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CMNS 212/MACS 212, CMNS 280, CMNS 300, CMNS 316, CMNS 360, or nine credits of CMNS and/or MACS courses.
This course explores how social, political, and commercial advancements are often sparked by public relations campaigns. CMNS 312 gives students the opportunity to strategize and plan persuasive campaigns designed to gain attention and motivate targeted audiences to take action.
3 credits
Communicating for Social Media
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including CMNS 251
This course focuses on writing for social media and examines the rise of web-based communication tools and
technologies that create a demand for new ways of writing. Writing in this context needs to be concise, engaging,
valuable, authentic, and focused. Communication is now expected to almost be instant. Conversations and decisions
are made virtually. This course explores the techniques needed to communicate effectively using social media
as well as a variety of web-based technologies.
Note: Students will be required to participate in global
social media environments.
4 credits
Editing Principles and Applications
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including CMNS 251
This course examines the types, principles, and processes of editing in a variety of contexts: academic, popular, technical, and business, both online and in print. By the end of the course you will have sufficient understanding and practice to work knowledgeably and correctly as an independent editor of small, in-house publications or alongside established editors of larger publications.
3 credits
Writing for the Sciences and Technologies
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits, including one of the following: CMNS 125, CMNS 145, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, or ENGL 105.
An introduction to advanced principles and applications of written and oral communication for the sciences. Topics covered include the ethics of scientific communication, incorporating online tools in research and writing, defining audiences, designing documents, using visual aids, and preparing presentations.
4 credits
Advanced Public Speaking
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: (45 university-level credits including either CMNS 235 or CMNS 345) or (EDUC 410, 445, and 490). Note: students with at least 60 credits and some background in public speaking can contact the instructor for permission.
Students will develop advanced skills through public delivery of presentations and analysis of landmark and contemporary speeches. Students will give presentations, develop workshops, manage meetings, practice rhetorical technique, and demonstrate leadership skills.
3 credits
Storytelling for Workplace Application
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CMNS 335, CMNS 345/ADED 345, or CMNS 445/ADED 445; or 45 university-level credits and CMNS 235.
This course prepares students to apply storytelling and visual communication methods as a means of communicating to influence, motivate, or persuade in the context of the workplace. Research indicates that if you want to influence people or have them remember something then you have two main choices; you can tell a great story or include a strong visual presentation. When you combine both strategies you are considered a polished communicator. This course is designed to incorporate both narrative writing and storytelling techniques, as well as introduce the use of basic graphic elements that can enhance workplace communications. The visual aspect of this course is specifically designed for anyone regardless of artistic ability.
4 credits
Instructional Skills for the Workplace
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits, including CMNS 251 and 3 additional credits of CMNS.
This course provides an opportunity to design and teach lessons to diverse audiences in three domains (psychomotor,
affective, cognitive) using a variety of media and strategies. Students prepare, deliver, and debrief three
short mini-lessons using a variety of instructional practices, technologies, and evaluation techniques for
conducting workplace training.
Note: Students with credit for ADED 345 cannot take this course
for further credit.
3 credits
Professional Formal Research Report Writing
Prerequisite(s): CMNS 251
This course focuses on the process and production of one long research document commonly used in business, industry, information technology, the arts, the natural and social sciences, and humanities. Students learn to propose and manage a research project in their career field and to practice proven research skills and methods and responsible documentation of sources. They will also learn to analyze, evaluate, and organize evidence, ideas, and arguments, as well as to compose, design, revise, and evaluate their document.
3 credits
The Responsibility of Using Research in the Workplace
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including CMNS 251.
It is an essential workplace-ready skill to be able to determine the credibility and relevance of information and data gathered when trying to make key decisions. This course examines the responsibilities associated with gathering verifiable information, and using secondary research and evaluation theory for the practical and timely application of workplace decision making. At the heart of decision making is an understanding of the specific stakeholder and audience needs. Likewise, it is essential that factors influencing decision making are effectively documented, shared, and communicated. The focus of this course is not on academic research practices, but on incorporating secondary research mindfully into a variety of workplace situations and written reports.
3 credits
Advocacy Writing
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including one of the following: CMNS 125, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, CMNS 212, ENGL 105, or MACS 212. CMNS 251 or another second year CMNS course is recommended.
Students will practice advocacy writing at an advanced level. The course focuses on writing persuasive requests,
advocacy planning, media planning, implementing strategy, and writing advocacy campaigns for social change.
This course will address the writing skills connected to larger social and political issues.
Note:
Students will be required to participate in global social media environments.
3 credits
Understanding Design for Print Publications
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CMNS 125, 145, 155, 175, or ENGL 105
This course focuses on the theory and practice of document design, typography, and desktop publishing. Students
will apply their knowledge in design to a variety of documents including brochures, newsletters, and marketing
material.
Note: Students with credit for CMNS 275 cannot take this course for further credit.
3 credits
Understanding Design for Digital Publications
Prerequisite(s): One of the following: CMNS 125, CMNS 145, CMNS 155, CMNS 175, ENGL 105, MACS 110, or MACS
130. Familiarity with word processing software and the Internet is essential for success in this course.
Note: CIS 145 or familiarity with web standards is recommended.
This course will examine social, cultural, and technological issues relating to the design and distribution
of electronic texts. Students will collaborate on a project to build an electronic publication using HTML
and CSS for web delivery and the EPUB document standard for display on mobile devices and eReaders.
Note: This course is offered as CMNS 376 and MACS 376. Students may take only one of these for credit.
3 credits
Communicating in the Cross-Generational Workplace
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including CMNS 251.
This course is designed to provide students with the skills needed to interact and communicate within a day-to-day workplace environment and build on the potential of a cross-generational workplace. Students will learn how to use a variety of communication strategies from various world views to effectively draw on the strengths of a cross-generational team, in a variety of Canadian workplace contexts.
3 credits
Language and Action: Seminar in Contemporary Rhetoric
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including one 200-level CMNS or ENGL course.
In this course you will be introduced to and examine major statements on the nature of rhetoric from the classical
period to the 21st century; you will then apply these to contemporary rhetorical events in an effort to understand
the paradigms governing language use in current social and linguistic environments. Rhetoric always includes
study of the ways language serves as a call to action; in this course, the emphasis will be on the ways language
acts – in itself, on the user, and on the discourse community.
Note: This course is offered as
CMNS 385 and ENGL 385. Students may take only one of these for credit.
3 credits
Designing User-friendly Guides, Manuals, and Instructions
Prerequisite(s): 45 university-level credits including CMNS 251.
For CIS program students, CIS 285 is
recommended.
Effective end-user documentation, both print and online, requires consideration of several key factors. The focus of this course is on gathering information and on structuring and designing documentation for the needs of the end-users. Students will apply the process for effective documentation to a number of exercises and as part of a collaborative team, design a user-friendly document for a specific group as the term project.
4 credits
Special Topics in Professional Communications
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits including CMNS 251 and one CMNS course 300-level and above.
This course involves in-depth examination of a selected topic in communications that is not addressed in current
course offerings. Development and application of professional communications skill sets will be stressed.
Topics covered will vary from year to year.
Note: This course will be offered under different
letter designations (e.g. C-Z) representing different topics. This course may be repeated for credit provided
the letter designation differs.
4 credits
Communications Practicum
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits completed, at least 12 must be from CMNS, of which 9 credits must be 300-level and above, and instructor permission. Students must complete an interview with the faculty liaison including presenting a portfolio of their CMNS work as part of the interview process.
Supervised practical applied experience in community and public relations or professional writing and speaking.
Students will have an opportunity to practice skills gained in prerequisite courses and will receive feedback
about their competencies from both the instructor and practicum supervisor.
Before starting practicum
placements, students must sign a practicum agreement. UFV reserves the right not to place a student into
a practicum if, in the opinion of the faculty, the student is not ready to be placed.
Note: Students
with credit for CMNS 413 cannot take this course for further credit.
4 credits
Virtual Team Communication
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits including one of the following: CMNS 235, CMNS 251, or CMNS 280.
Virtual teams are used globally to communicate across boundaries, time zones, technologies, cultures, disciplines,
and professional contexts. This course blends face-to-face instruction with virtual learning to connect students
with the specialized strategies, technologies, tools, and methods to facilitate virtual teams.
Note:
Students will be required to participate in global social media environments.
3 credits
Project Management Communication in Action
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including CMNS 251
This course prepares students, with or without project management experience, to work as collaborative, effective, and efficient project team participants and communicators. Students will practice the process of communication within project management that provides clarity, direction, and team success. Students will be introduced to a variety of project management documents and project team roles. They will also learn how to use a variety of written, oral, and interpersonal communication strategies to enhance the project team experience. This course can be applied to a wide variety of workplace settings and projects.
4 credits
Facilitating Skills for the Workplace
Prerequisite(s): CMNS 345, or 45 university-level credits including CMNS 235 or CMNS 280
The student will develop and apply approaches to facilitating for diverse group situations and workplace learning
communities. Students will develop core competencies for managing learners, teams, groups, and committees.
The facilitator provides skills, guides discussions, and encourages the group to reach conclusions.
Note: Some public speaking skills are assumed in this course.
Students with credit for ADED
445 cannot take this course for further credit.
3 credits
Grant and Proposal Writing
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits including one of the following: CMNS 212, CMNS 251, or CMNS 312.
Students will make a persuasive case in grants, proposals, letters of intent, and cover letters. Students will
write and design a persuasive case document, research potential donors, prepare a budget, and articulate
the ethical dimensions of grants management.
Note: Students will be required to participate in global
social media environments.
Note: Students with credit for CMNS 365 cannot take this course for
further credit.
4 credits
Crisis Communications
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including six credits of lower-level MACS and/or CMNS.
Crises are unexpected threats for which response time is short. Their origins can be natural (as with ice storms
or tsunamis) or human (as with acts of terrorism or oil spills). This course uses Canadian and foreign examples
to explore how to (and how not to) deal with serious challenges to public safety. To do so, it draws on both
theoretical and practical approaches to communicating with diverse audiences in crisis situations.
Note: This course is offered as CMNS 480 and MACS 480. Students may take only one of these for credit.
4 credits
Directed Studies in Communications
Prerequisite(s): 60 university-level credits, including at least 12 credits of CMNS, of which 9 credits must be 300-level or higher, and written permission of the instructor and the department.
Students will pursue independent study of a communications issue, theme, or problem and apply that research to a workplace-based project. The completed project must display the student’s writing ability, knowledge of audience, and thorough familiarity with the topic area.
Last extracted: May 09, 2017 02:01:54 PM