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COMS-270 - Communication and Leadership - Larry Alva

Course:Communication and Leadership
Professor:Larry Alva
Email:larry.alva@canyons.edu
Format:
  • OnlineLive
Course Length:
  • Applies to All Course Lengths

Introduction

Picture of instructor

Hello COMS 270 students.  My name is Larry Alva and I will be your COMS 270 instructor for the Fall of 2021.  I have been teaching at College of the Canyons since 2013.  Like all of you, I completed course work at College of the Canyons and am a very proud alumnus.  I completed my undergraduate work at the University Center at College of the Canyons and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice studies.  I have also earned a Master of Arts degree in Communication and Leadership from Gonzaga University.  I currently teach part-time and work as a mid-level executive in a local government agency.

This course is designed to provide you with an intensive introduction into leadership studies.  The course will examine both the leader as an individual and the leader in a team configuration. Students will be expected be engaged and complete course work timely and thoroughly.  I look forward to working with all of you this semester.

Course Description

This course introduces students to the fundamental elements of communication in relation to leadership theories, ethics, styles, and perspectives, including the development of a personal philosophy of leadership that includes an understanding of self, others, and community. Prepares students for leadership roles in college and community settings.

What to Expect in this Course

For this course students will need a reliable internet connect.  A device with a webcam, microphone and access to specific web browsers compatible with Canvas and Zoom are required.  Recommended web browsers include Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. 

Students should expect to meet with the instructor and classmates weekly via Zoom.  In addition, the student will be required to complete discussion board posts, complete weekly quizzes, complete a mid-term and final exam and complete written assignments including a personal philosophy of leadership, a critical essay on leadership action and and an essary providing critical leadership feedback to a fictitious organization.   

Types of Assessments

As discussed previously, students will be required to complete discussion board posts, complete weekly quizzes, complete a mid-term and final exam and complete written assignments including a personal philosophy of leadership, a critical essay on leadership action and provide leadership feedback to a fictitious organization.   

Textbook Information

Students will be required to purchase two textbooks:

1. Dare to Lead by Brene Brown

2. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

 


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: 06/19/2021 Sub#: 297

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