CMST 330: Organizational Communication

Class Program
Credits 5 Lecture Hours 55 Lab Hours 0
This course explores organizational communication principles. Students will learn techniques for improving organizational communication through exploration of various communication topics including public relations and marketing, leadership functions, dispute resolution, coaching and mentoring, motivation and influence, perception, goal setting, emotional intelligence, growth mindset, diversity, and global perspectives. It is vital to recognize the ways in which communication choices shape organizational structures, goals, cultures, policies, problems, membership, ethics, and employee behavior. In this course, you will learn effective communication needed in professional and volunteer groups. You will engage in interactive exercises and practical application of theory, practicing skills you will need to improve organizations, and the lives of its members and stakeholders.

Prerequisites

CMST & 210 Interpersonal Communication or CMST & 220 Public Speaking. Bachelor of Applied Science -Applied Management program admission.
Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:

  1. Define major terms and theories related to the field of Organizational Communication
  2. Demonstrate organizations as complex and dynamic systems with situated, multi-layered cultures.
  3. Identify different types of organizational structures and leadership styles
  4. Analyze the nature and consequences of organization messages – including their informal, strategic, relational, instrumental, symbolic, and ideological dimensions
  5. Analyze the way communication processes and patterns vary among different organizational structures, and their effects
  6. Identify common communication challenges that arise in organizations
  7. Use concepts and theories of communication to develop coherent communication strategies and plans and enhance human communication effectiveness
  8. Develop intercultural awareness and communication strategies that enhance an organization’s internal and external relationships
  9. Assess the organizational communication practices of ourselves and others
  10. Demonstrate skills and attitudes that increase communication competence in group settings
  11. Develop professional writing and presentation skills.
Institutional Outcomes
IO1 Students will be able to communicate clearly and effectively.
Course Content Outline
Content might include:
  1. Overview of the field of Organizational Communication
  2. Distinguishing formal and informal networks
  3. Organizational structures
  4. Identifying cultural dimensions within organizations and the role of associated values in shaping communication practices.
  5. Common communication challenges
  6. Interpersonal communication
  7. Leadership styles and follower behaviors
  8. Emotions in the workplace
  9. Ethics and decision making
  10. Growth mindset approach to leading and working
  11. Communication challenges and opportunities as related to globalization
  12. Professional communication – presentations, emails, video conferencing, and social media
  13. Organizational identity
Department Guidelines
PO4 Apply and analyze multicultural strategies to facilitate respectful and equitable inclusion of diverse individuals and perspectives to achieve organizational goals