THREE BASIC COMMUNICATION COURSES: STUDENT REACTIONS AND EFFECTS ON COMMUNICATIVE ABILITY

This document specifies methods for the evaluation of three different approaches to basic speech communication courses used in higher education. The courses are "Fundamentals of Speech," "Contemporary Issues, " and "Communication Process. " The first two were designed to produce skilled public speakers and the third was designed to provide students with an understanding of the communication process. Student opinions relating to the success of the courses were sought, as well as those of department chairmen and instructors. Results of this study indicated that one-quarter courses in speech communication can improve the content, language, organization, and general effectiveness of students ' speech, but they do not consistently upgrade the delivery of all speech students. Other detailed conclusions pertaining to the three sample courses are also presented. (CH