COM-225 Communication and Democracy (The Quest for Freedom, Equality and Inclusion in America)

This course investigates the relationship between oratory and the experience of diverse groups in America. To explore these relationships, students study foundational concepts about communication and important speeches that have facilitated cultural change in the United States. Special emphasis is placed on civic engagement and on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion. This course carries SUNY General Education Diversity: Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice credit.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

COM-100 or COM-110

Lecture Contact Hours

3

Lab Contact Hours

0

Other Contact Hours

0

Department

• Visual and Performing Arts

Grading Scheme

• Letter

SUNY Gen Ed Credit

• Yes

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Students will explain how historical and contemporary social movements in the United States have used public speaking to advance their cause and bring about change in social and political structures/systems.
2. Students will describe and analyze the impact of the speaking situation (historic and social context) of select speeches on social movements in the United States.
3. Students will employ critical listening strategies to analyze speeches identifying the principles of rights, access, equity, and participation.
4. Students will create and deliver speeches supported by sufficient, credible forms of evidence and proof; that effectively engages with an audience.

View Course Outline

COM 225: Communication and Democracy (The Quest for Freedom, Equality and Inclusion in America)

Department

Visual and Performing Arts

Course Description

This course investigates the relationship between oratory and the experience of diverse groups in America. To explore these relationships, students study foundational concepts about communication and important speeches that have facilitated cultural change in the United States. Special emphasis is placed on civic engagement and on issues of diversity, equity and inclusion. This course carries SUNY General Education Diversity: Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice credit.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

Lecture	3
Lab	0
Other	0

Grading Scheme

Letter

Prerequisites

COM-100 or COM-110

SUNY General Education Course

• Diversity Equity Inclusion and Social Justice

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Students will explain how historical and contemporary social movements in the United States have used public speaking to advance their cause and bring about change in social and political structures/systems.
2. Students will describe and analyze the impact of the speaking situation (historic and social context) of select speeches on social movements in the United States.
3. Students will employ critical listening strategies to analyze speeches identifying the principles of rights, access, equity, and participation.
4. Students will create and deliver speeches supported by sufficient, credible forms of evidence and proof; that effectively engages with an audience.

Topic Outline

1. Preparing the Speech
   1. The Audience
   2. The Speaking Situation
   3. Language and Style
   4. Public Narrative and Organizational Sequences
   5. Delivery
   6. Argument
2. Themes
   1. Race in America
   2. Native American Experience
   3. Women and The Vote
   4. Religious Freedom in America
   5. Disability Rights
   6. LGBTQIA+ Rights
   7. Labor Rights
   8. #MeToo and the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence