Note: This "standard" course syllabus is only a guide. Actual requirements for a particular course and section of this course are described in the course section syllabus, which should be obtained from the course instructor at the beginning of the respective semester. Requirements listed herein are subject to change without notice.
Course: BCM 247 - Business Communication
Catalog Description:
Application to business of logical and psychological communication principles through letters, memos, reports, and oral presentations. Prerequisites: 6 hours from English 131, 132, 133, or 235 and keyboarding skills of 30 words per minute.
Learning Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Apply business communication strategies and principles to prepare effective communication for domestic and international business situations.
2. Identify ethical, legal, cultural, and global issues affecting business communication.
3. Utilize analytical and problem solving skills appropriate to business communication.
4. Select appropriate organizational formats and channels used in developing and presenting business messages.
5. Compose and revise accurate business documents using computer technology.
6. Communicate via electronic mail, Internet, and other electronic media.
7. Deliver an effective oral business presentation.
Topics/Components: The following topics/components will be used in the course. Specific goals are indicated by superscripts.
I. Theory and Principles 2, 4, 5, 7, 9
A. Communication theory
B. Organizational communication
C. Group and team communication
D. Ethical issues relating to business communication
E. Legal considerations of business messages
F. Cultural and social issues
G. Global issues
II. Communication Media 3, 4, 5
A. Written channels
B. Oral channels
C. Electronic channels
D. Nonverbal communication
E. Listening skills
III. Written Business Messages 4, 5, 8
A. Effective writing principles
B. Goodwill messages
C. Routine and favorable messages
D. Unpleasant messages
E. Persuasive messages
F. Employment communication
IV. Report Writing 3, 4, 5, 6, 8
A. Elements of reports
B. Primary and secondary data collection
C. Interpretation and organization of data
D. Graphic aids
E. Documentation techniques
V. Oral Presentation Skills 3, 5, 6
A. Data collection and organization
B. Effective speaking techniques
C. Appropriate visuals
VI. Electronic Communication 4, 7, 9
A. Orientation and Uses
B. Application Software
C. Electronic mail
D. Internet/web sites
E. Online information services and databases
Items incorporated into class instruction:
1. Leadership
2. Teamwork
3. Creativity/Innovation
4. Integrating Knowledge and/or Skills to Solve Problems
5. Critical Thinking
6. Gathering and/or Analyzing Information
7. Dealing with Change
8. Using Logic
9. Ability and Motivation for "Life-Long Learning"
Textbooks:
Johnson, B. S., and M. L. Bayless. (2005). Business Communication. 4th edition. Mason, OH: Thomson Custom Publishing.
Lehman, C. M., & DuFrene, D.D. (2005). Business Communication, 14th edition. Mason, OH: Thomson/South-Western Publishing.
Evaluation:
Item Range
Analytical report 25 - 30%
Objective examinations (at least two) 15 - 30%
Letters and memorandums 25 - 30%
Oral presentation 5 - 10%
Electronic communication 5 - 10%
Quizzes and other assignments 10 - 20%