Fundamentals of Oral Communication, more commonly called COMM 101, is taken by undergraduate students at the University of Idaho as a part of the general education curriculum. Although only one communications course is required to graduate, it is a good idea to explore other communications courses UI offers.
The university offers many communications courses for students, which can help relationships and interactions with others. Communication is crucial to human life, so why not learn more about it?
COMM 101 is an important part of the university’s teachings, preparing students for communication in the workplace and speaking in front of an audience. The course gives students experience preparing slides, brainstorming ideas and speaking while learning about presenting skills.
While teaching students some communication skills is important, COMM 101 doesn’t do justice to the communication field and, yes, I am saying this because I’m a communications major.
Learning more about communication has made me more introspective about what others mean when they say and do things. Communication is an untapped resource everyone can take advantage of. Courses in the field have made a difference in my life and hold potential to do so for others open to learning.
There is something fascinating about human behavior. Learning about how we and others act can show us new perspectives. This can be started by delving into more communications classes.
Communication isn’t just about what we say. Oral communication is only the tip of the communication iceberg. When people think about communication, they think of speech, and that’s what I thought before I started taking more classes.
Communication has more depth than what we learn in courses. Over 50% of human communication is non-verbal. This doesn’t include just body language. Non-verbal is all communication that isn’t said — this can be pitch, physical space and even odor.
COMM 101 only offers some brief basics of speech and oral communication.
Communication is a big factor in our everyday lives. Because it is so woven into our every day lives, it is vital to learn more about it.
UI teaches courses like interpersonal communication, conflict management, non-verbal communication and more. Taking these courses will help make a well-rounded college experience and perspective on how we communicate.
Communication can be applied to any major. Many classes require COMM 101, which is already fulfilled by the general education curriculum.
UI also offers fun, non-conventional classes, like the dark side of communication. There is a class for everyone.
Courses can be found at the university schedule website. Some are offered online, if going out poses concern for COVID-19. Communication is a broad, interesting subjects which offers something for everything. Work, relationships and every day life can be better understood by acknowledging and learning skills communication courses have to offer.
Take a look at what the university has to offer and sign up for some communication courses outside of COMM 101.
Emily Pearce can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @Emily_A_Pearce