fulk@usc.edu

http://www-rcf.usc.edu/~fulk/385/385-f99.html

Goals

The goals of this course are to:

• introduce you to basic concepts you need in order to understand communication processes in contemporary organizations,
• encourage you to think critically and analytically about the roles that communication technologies can play in contemporary organizations,
• help you to develop skills at observing and analyzing communication processes in the workplace.

Theme

Today's organizations, in both profit and not-for profit sectors, are experiencing what many have called a "sea change". They are facing radical changes in the way they compete, service their customers, and relate to their employees. Decades-old ways of working must be transformed at a rapid pace, and old assumptions must be discarded. For those entering into the workforce for the first time, it can be a uniquely exciting time. Organizations that are poised to transform themselves need human resources who are not fettered with old routines, who have initiative and ideas, and who thrive on uncertainty.

New technologies of communication and computing are intricately linked with these major changes in the way organizations function. Technological developments are at once both drivers of change and, in turn, driven by such change. Individuals who understand the social, organizational, and management issues linked to communication technologies, and not just the technical ones, are important resources for organizations. More than ever organizations are struggling to understand how best to manage in the context of intranets and extranets, electronic commerce, interorganizational information systems, and other developments that affect the core of how communication takes place in and between organizations.

Approach

Organizational communication processes are difficult to grasp just from reading a textbook or viewing films; people need some opportunity to see the processes in action. Also, critical analytical capabilities must be developed through application of theoretical principles to realistic contexts. Thus, this course will focus on activities that will give you the opportunity to apply textbook principles to real organizations.

As a class and/or in small groups, we will analyze case examples of real-life situations that exemplify the textual material. You will apply your analytical skills and judgments to reach decisions and recommendations as if you were a real participant in the case. These include both written and interactive cases. Interactive cases require you to make additional decisions based upon the results of your initial decisions (much like the "choose your own adventure" books.) You can also try out new skills through role-play exercises. And, films will show learning in action in real-life organizations. We will also use some of the organizational communication technologies that we will study so that you can experience their potential first-hand.

Required Textbook and Reading Packet

Andrews, P. H. & Herschel, R. T. (1996). Organizational communication: Empowerment in a technological society. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.

There is also a reading packet available at the bookstore; all readings also can be accessed through electronic reserves: http://www.usc.edu/isd/elecreserves/

Assignments

There are 9 homework assignments. Their due dates are listed on the schedule below as well as on each individual assignment. Homework grades for each assignment are as follows:

full credit = 2 points for each of the first two assignments, and 3 points for each of the rest

1 = marginal

0 = unacceptable

Each homework assignment due date corresponds to when the topic is discussed in class. Thus, homework assignments are intricately tied to class participation. Homework must be completed and turned in by the due date in order to receive full credit. Homework may be turned in on paper, by email, fax (213-740-8036), or posting to an accessible website. Homework turned in late (past the end of class on the due date) will receive a MAXIMUM 50% credit (50% of the assigned 0,1, 2 or grade for the assignment), as long as it is turned in before the scheduled final examination. There are no extensions to this due date for late assignments.

You can work together or in teams on the homework if you want. However, each person must turn in a unique homework that is not a duplicate or near-duplicate of another student's homework.

There are three exams, including the final. Each exam will cover 1/3 of the course and will not be cumulative. You may consult or work with other students prior to exams (a good idea), but NOT during the exams (a very bad idea). Violations of academic integrity not only hurt the class as a whole, but also carry severe penalties for you. See below.

There is no specific component of your grade for class attendance per se. Class discussions will be only as good as your preparation and participation make them. Class discussions are some of the most important ways that we learn the material. Your best preparation for exams is to attend class, since material discussed in class will be on the exams. If you do not attend for whatever reason, you are still responsible for the material covered in class, even if it is not covered in the readings. Please do not expect your instructor to have private tutorials for you over class discussions that you missed.

Distribution of points:
 
 

Grading scale:
 
 

Policy Regarding Academic Integrity

The Annenberg School for Communication is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct and academic excellence. Any student found responsible for plagiarism, fabrication, cheating on an examination, or purchasing papers or other assignments will receive a failing grade in the course and may be dismissed as a major. There are no exceptions to this policy.

The schedule of class meetings and assignments is detailed below. It may be necessary to make some adjustments to the syllabus during the semester.