COMS 105 - Fundamentals of Public Speaking - Lauren Rome
| Course: | Fundamentals of Public Speaking |
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| Professor: | Lauren Rome |
| Email: | lauren.rome@canyons.edu |
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Introduction
Welcome to Communication Studies 105, Fundamentals of Public Speaking. My name is Lauren Rome and I am your instructor. I was a College of the Canyons student just like you! I love this campus and helping students through a course that I know can be challenging.
My classroom philosophy is based on a warm, supportive environment, with a focus on transferable skills that will be needed for your future. Each student is an individual in this class and the course goal is based on personal progression and growth. Not everyone has the same skill or comfort level when it comes to public speaking, and my aim is that you feel slightly more comfortable speaking after you complete this course.
Course Description
This course examines the principles and practices of public speaking, communication theory, and techniques for public speaking. This might seem overwhelming, but as someone who has personally experienced the anxiety associated with public speaking, my goal is to give you all the tools necessary to successfully communicate with others.
This is an OnlineLive course, which means that we meet every Tuesday and Thursday of the session at the times that correspond to your section number (listed above). In each class meeting, you should come prepared, having read the chapter associated with the weeks content before coming to class. In class we will apply the concepts from the chapter to activities and discussions. Speeches will be delivered on the days scheduled in the syllabus. You will have the opportunity to sign up for speech days in advance, and you will use Zoom to deliver speeches to me, and your classmates.
What to Expect in this Course
As this is a public speaking course you will be delivering live speeches, eek! I know this probably made some of your hearts skip a beat, but honestly, there is no need to panic. I am going to teach you the foundations of speech giving, organization, and delivery. No matter your experience or confidence level, the key to delivering a successful speech is preparation. Every single thing we do in this class is designed to help you succeed as a speaker. Your participation and completion of all preliminary assignments is expected.
In addition to delivering speeches, you are also going to be listening to many speeches. Your role as an audience member is just as important as that of speaker. I expect each audience member to be supportive and respectful. As such, cameras are expected to be on during speech days for all speakers and audience members. This will be discussed in greater detail throughout the class.
Types of Assessments
There will be online assignments, discussions, and one exam. The main form of assessment will come through your speeches. Both speeches (informative and persuasive) must be delivered in order to meet the course requirements.
Textbook Information
Fundamentals of Public Speaking Zero Cost Textbook
Other Relevant Course Information
Please note, this class will require you to work online and complete assignments using different forms of technology. I don't want there to be any surprises or statements such as, I wouldn't have taken this class if I would have known So please understand the following:
- We will be using different online tools, so be prepared to do so. This can vary from internet resources to using a camera and microphone on your computer. If you are not yet familiar with Zoom, you may sign up for a free account and start practicing. There are specific ways you will need to stand, angle the camera, and use volume to effectively deliver a speech in an online class, all of which we will address in due time.
- This is a university-level class! This means you will have work to do which reflects college rigor. The level of work doesn't change if you take this class face-to-face, hybrid, or 100% online.
- The California State University System feels that this class is so important that students must take it prior to being eligible to transfer AND you must receive a minimum grade of a C. This class will not be difficult as long as you listen to your instructor, complete the assignments on time, and take this class seriously. I cant take away speech anxiety, but I can help make the process easier!
Additional Resources
Canvas
This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:
- CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
- CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password
Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.
Online Education
Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.
The Learning Center (TLC)
The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!
Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)
College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.
Online Counseling
The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.
Management of Stress and Mental Health
Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.
Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.
You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.
Veterans Resource Center
The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.
Library
The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!
Last updated: 10/05/2021 Sub#: 712