CMST 101: Interpersonal Communication

Course Description: 

This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. It is through this type of communication that relationships are formed and a connection is maintained. During the semester you will learn to apply communication skills in your daily life.
Instruction methods:
1.  Lectures covering interpersonal communication topics and theories.

2. Class discussions and exercises
3. Presentation: Students will present in groups, a topic within interpersonal communication.
4. Research: Students will engage in primary research for their presentation.
5. Exams & Quizzes covering the material discussed in class.

Textbook Information:  Adler & Proctor: Looking Out Looking In, 14th Ed.

Course Learning Objectives: CMST 101 will provide you with both a theoretical understanding of and practical experience with interpersonal communication. The main objectives of this course include:

1. Students will learn the basic theories of the interpersonal communication
2. Students will learn theories of building and maintaining
3. Students will develop competencies in perception checking, listening, and conflict

Meet Your Instructor: Hi, I'm Cara Pierce. I have been a faculty member at Santa Ana College since 2010, becoming full time in 2014.  I earned her Master of Arts in Media, Culture, and Communication from New York University in 2007 and my undergraduate degree from Cal State Long Beach in 2004. I am currently earning my Doctorate of Education from Northeastern University with an emphasis in curriculum and instruction. I teach public speaking, interpersonal communication, and argumentation, currently. I am also working on growing the distance education class offerings in the department, currently teaching interpersonal communication online.   



I feel grateful to have a career that is both rewarding and challenging. I view the classroom as an opportunity to experiment, ask questions, make mistakes and learn to continue to grow personally and professionally. As an educator my passion is to encourage my students to explore their potential inside and outside of the classroom, and in both their personal and professional lives. I am honored to work with the students at Santa Ana College.

Course Syllabus: cmst101 PDF.pdf