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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

CMNS 2171: Interpersonal Communication

Students learn a range of theories and perspectives related to interpersonal communication. Emphasis will be on understanding the importance of effective interpersonal communication to establishing and maintaining relationships as well as achieving goals in social and workplace environments. Students assess the use of interpersonal communication in given scenarios and are encouraged to reflect on and improve their own interpersonal communication skills. This study of interpersonal communication includes several contexts, including the workplace, social and family environments.

Learning outcomes

  • Explain the basic assumptions and characteristics of key theories and perspectives related to interpersonal communication.
  • Explain the importance of interpersonal communication as a key factor in social, cultural, and workplace communication contexts.
  • Describe the role of communication in defining the nature and quality of interpersonal relationships.
  • Analyze based on theory the effectiveness and appropriateness of particular interpersonal communication strategies in a given situation or scenario.
  • Apply principles and approaches to interpersonal communication effectively to particular communication scenarios based on context, goals, and needs.
  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your own interpersonal communication skills.

Course topics

Module 1: The Interpersonal Process

Module 2: Communication and the Self

Module 3: Perceiving Others

Module 4: Emotions

Module 5: Listening

Module 6: Language

Module 7: Non-Verbal Communication

Module 8: Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships

Module 9: Communication Climate

Module 10: Managing Conflict

Module 11: Communicating with Family

Module 12: Work, Group, and Team Communication

Required text and materials

The following material is required for this course:

  1. Adler, R. B., Rosenfeld, L. B., Proctor, R. F., & Winder, C. (2020). Interplay: The process of interpersonal communication (5th Canadian ed.). Don Mills, ON: Oxford University Press.
    Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-0-19-903347-8

Assessments

Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.

To complete this course successfully, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course and 50% or higher on the mandatory Final Exam.

Assignment 1: Journal A (6 entries) 10%
Assignment 2: Research Essay Thesis Statement 5%
Assignment 3: Journal B (6 entries) 10%
Assignment 4: Research Essay 20%
Quiz 1: Modules 1 to 4 10%
Quiz 2: Modules 5 to 7 10%
Quiz 3: Modules 8 to 10 10%
Mandatory Final Exam 25%
Total 100%

Open Learning Faculty Member Information

An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.

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