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SYLLABUSSpring 1997 |
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Examines the social and technological processes associated with the
transfer of information. An objective of the course is to introduce
students to the pertinent literature in information science, library
science, and communication. The course includes discussions of
interpersonal, small group, scholarly, and mass communication.
NOTE: If you plan to take this course in the Spring 1997
semester,
please
go to the Student Information Form ,
fill it out and submit it.
This course is required for all MSLS and MSIS students in the
School of Information and Library Science at the University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It is possible to waive this course
if you can show evidence of having completed satisfactorily similar
coursework elsewhere. Please see one of the instructors for the
course if you wish to pursue the waiver option.
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OBJECTIVES FOR THE COURSE
Upon completion of the course, students will be able:
The textbook for the class is:
Communication in Organizations by Dalmar Fisher. 2nd ed. Minneapolis: West Publishing, 1993.A list of additional readings have been placed on reserve. Typically, there will be a chapter of the text and one or two additional readings for each class. If a reserve reading is unavailable to you or you would prefer a different reading, select an alternative reading on the same topic and provide me with the citation. Please be a good colleague and good citizen as you use the readings through the library reserve system.
The assignments are intended to enable you to practice your communication skills of reading, writing, speaking plus analyzing communication situations, working in groups, negotiating and mediating. This means some of your assignments are group and some are individual. When it is a group assignment, all members of the group will receive the same grade unless there is overwhelming evidence otherwise.
The first assignment introduces interviewing skills and is partly individual and partly group. Other group assignments include a case analysis and the development of discussion forum questions. Individual assignments include analysis of either a group of web pages on a topic, several electronic journals, or a listserv. You will also be individually responsible for writing three case analyses or alternative short exercises and making a presentation on a topic of your choice. Responses to the discussion forum questions are also necessary.
A more detailed description of the assignments is available on the Assignments page.
Alternative assignments that you believe would be more valuable to you educationally may be proposed and, if at all possible, accommodated.
I will be prepared for class, on time, and in a communicative mood for all
classes and expect the same from you.
Reading, written, and speaking assignments are to be completed by the due
date unless you communicate with me a compelling reason otherwise.
Attendance and participation in class is important. Please let me know if
you cannot attend
class for any reason.
The principles of academic honesty, integrity, and good citizenship
embodied in the Honor Code govern all our work and conduct.
Grades will be calculated as follows:
"A community is like a ship;
everyone ought to be prepared to take the helm."
--Ibsen