Introduction to Communication Science

Course Objective

Upon completion of the course the student:
• has knowledge of what communication science is, and how it is
positioned in the broader scientific field;
• has knowledge of different approaches, subfields, and different types
of theories that exist in the field of communication science;
• has knowledge of a number of classical theories in communication
science, its primary concepts, and working mechanisms;
• has acquired basic insight in the type of research that is used to
study communication processes;
• is able to judge the quality of theories, and think in theoretical
terms about communication processes;
• is able to apply theory to explain real world phenomena.

Course Content

The course Introduction to communication science is specifically
designed for students who have no background in communication science.
The course offers students a broad introduction to communication science
by introducing a wide variety of theories that can be perceived as “the
classics”, and by providing students with an integrative perspective on
the field. After completion, students should under-stand the theories,
know the research that supports it, see useful applications in society
and in their personal lives, and be aware of the theory’s possible flaws
and limitations.

Additional Information Teaching Methods

The course is offered as a mix of self-study (book chapters and
video’s), seminars, preparatory tests, a team assignment, and exams.

Method of Assessment

Two individual exams, a team assignment, and preparatory tests

Literature

Griffin, E. A., Ledbetter, A., & Sparks, G. G. (2019). A First Look at
Communication Theory (Tenth Edition). McGraw-Hill Education

Additional Information Target Audience

1st year bachelor students communication science, minor/exchange
students. This course is also available as an elective course for VU and
non-VU students.