DESCRIPTION:

This course explores the interrelationship between speech and thought. It does so in order to improve students' conceptual processes as well as their ability to share those developed conceptual processes with others through public speaking. In addition to focusing on public speaking techniques, this course is designed to address all three levels of spoken language--intrapersonal, interpersonal, and person-to-persons--as they relate to effective communication in ministry.

To be successful in ministry, students must know what will make them more effective communicators. They must be able to make conscious communication choices that contribute to desired outcomes. As a result of the course, students should be able to teach and model to others communication behavior that strengthens ministry endeavors.

This course meets daily for four-hour sessions for two weeks. Each student must be present for the entirety of every class meeting in order to pass the course. The class format includes lecture, discussion, spoken language exercises, oral presentations, and providing feedback to classmates. Time outside of class is devoted to reading texts and material in the individual's area of research; preparing oral presentations; and practicing communication skills in a "real" environment.

Dance, F. E. X. and Carol C. Zak-Dance. Speaking Your Mind: Private Thinking and Public Speaking, 2nd ed. Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt Publishers, 1996.

Lawyer, J. W. and Neil H. Katz. Communication Skills for Ministry. Second Edition. Dubuque, IA: Kendall Hunt Publishers, 1985.

Syllabus course pack.

Students are required to do independent research in an area of Speech Communication for the purpose of further deepening knowledge and developing skills in a particular area of communication interest. Consultation and approval by the instructor for selected research is required.

Read, synthesize and discuss assigned materials. Prepare and deliver three relatively brief oral presentations in class (written outlines required for each of these assignments). Memorize and deliver one three-to-five-minute published work--Scripture, story, speech, or poem. Prepare and deliver one ten-to-twelve-minute presentation that captures the research performed during this course and teaches classmates something that could make each one of them more effective communicators in the future. A full written outline, including citation of sources and bibliography, is required to be given to the instructor before the presentation. Journal throughout the course, tying entries within the journal to assigned readings.

This course meets the requirements for CO500 and CO503 in the MA in Theology, Biblical Studies and Theology Format and in any MA in Theology concentration requiring both CO500 and CO503.

No.