COM 112: INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION

Course Component Type: Lecture Based

3 Credit Hours
Prerequisite: None
Fulfills GEP Social Science Category

Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth Jones (she/her/hers) Office: Winston 107

Email: eanelso4@ncsu.edu Office Hours: by appointment

Learning Platform
Course information including the syllabus, announcements, assignments, and grades will be housed on Moodle.
You may access Moodle by logging on to WolfWare (https://wolfware.ncsu.edu). From the WolfWare page,
select “My WolfWare” and use your unity ID and password to log in; you will see the course listed after you
log in. Students are expected to regularly check Moodle for course information.

Note that Moodle tracks user log-in/log-out. As a result, if the electronic records as a part of Moodle does not
have a record of you logging-in to complete an assignment by the due date, then, as per the records, you will
not receive credit for the specific assignment. It is your responsibility to obtain assistance from the NCSU
Computing Services Tech Specialists if you have problems with Moodle (ph: 919-515-HELP).

This course conforms to all NCSU policies regarding the online learning environment
(https://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-08-00-11/).

Students may be required to disclose personally identifiable information to other students in the course, via
electronic tools like email or web-postings, where relevant to the course. Examples include online discussions
of class topics, and posting of student coursework. All students are expected to respect the privacy of each other
by not sharing or using such information outside the course.

Required Reading
Adler, R.B., Rosenfeld, L.B., & Proctor, R.F., II. (2018). Interplay: The process of interpersonal
communication (15th edition). New York: Oxford University Press. (ISBN:9780190646257).

Cost of the text are as follows:

• Purchase, new: $97.94
• eBook: $44.07
• Copies of the text will be available on reserve at D.H. Hill Library.

This class is taking part in NC State’s All-In program.  Course materials are delivered electronically on my
Moodle site.  This is the most cost-effective way for you to get the materials you need to succeed in my course.
You have free access to materials through the drop/add date.  You must purchase access during that time using
the link on my Moodle page to the bookstore’s website.  If you do not purchase access by the drop/add date,
you will lose access to the course materials and will then have to acquire the materials through another source.

Course Catalog Description

Interpersonal communication competence: self-concept, language and culture, self-disclosure, active listening,
verbal and nonverbal communication, and conflict management.

Expanded Course Description

This course is designed to develop an understanding of being “in relation” with others through a theoretical
lens. Students will be exposed to a variety of interpersonal communication theories, concepts, and research
findings in this course, and asked to apply them to different contexts. Through lectures, discussion, and
activities, students will increase their awareness of everyday communication behaviors. Additionally, students
will enhance their repertoire of communication skills by questioning habits, traditions, and current ideas and
behaviors related to factors influencing communication. By the end of this course, students will have a breadth
of knowledge about interpersonal communication theory and practice that can be used for future communication
situations, thereby enabling them to become more effective communicators.

GEP Objectives for Courses in the Category of Social Sciences

Each course in the Social Science category of the General Education Program will provide instruction and
guidance that help students to:
1. Examine at least one of the following: human behavior, culture, mental processes, organizational process, or
institutional processes, and
2. Demonstrate how social scientific methods may be applied to the study of human behavior, culture, mental
processes, organizational processes, or institutional processes, and
3. Use theories or concepts of the social sciences to analyze and explain theoretical and/or real-world
problems, including the underlying origins of such problems.

Specific Course Objectives

1. Exposing students to concepts and theories which will help in interpreting and understanding their own
communication behavior, as well as the communication behavior of others;
2. Familiarizing students with important variables influencing the communication process so these variables
can be identified and analyzed;
3. Applying theory and research to individual behavior and/or societal phenomena;
4. Assisting students in acquiring observational sensitivity to potential communication problems, so that the
students can recognize attitudes, values, and behaviors that underlie communication events;
5. Aiding students in integrating and critically analyzing communication concepts and variables;
6. Developing a theoretically-grounded set of strategies for communicating in interpersonal relationships in a
variety of contexts.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Interpret and describe their own communication behavior, as well as the communication behavior of
others;
2. Identify and analyze variables influencing the communication process;
3. Apply theory and research to individual behavior and/or social phenomena;
4. Recognize attitudes, values, and behaviors that underlie communication events;
5. Develop a theoretically-grounded set of strategies for communicating in interpersonal relationships in a
variety of contexts.

Course Grading Policy and Grading Scale

For Communication majors, COM 112 is a C-wall course; in other words, a grade of C- or higher must
be earned to pass the course. For students who are not Communication majors, a D- in this course constitutes
a passing grade.

Course Assignments
In order to earn a passing grade in this class you will need to complete and pass, with an average of 70% or
higher, the following assignments:

Summary & Synthesis (60 points each/300 points total): You will choose five chapters between chapters 2-
10 for which you will write a 2-3 page (double spaced, standard font) paper that includes: the three terms that
are most meaningful and/or helpful to you and an explanation of why, two discussion questions for the class,
and one relationship to which you can apply the classroom concepts. Submit each writing online by @ noon on
the day before the second chapter (see syllabus for precise dates).
 For the three terms, you will write the terms and what makes them meaningful or helpful (at least one
substantial paragraph each). Meaningful or helpful can mean what you learned about yourself or other
people, how this term encapsulates a communication phenomenon you have noticed, what a theory or
tool explicated that enhances your life, etc. (10 points each/30 points)
 The two questions you can ask the class should be original inquiries that will spark a discussion, debate,
or otherwise explore class concepts. We will use these as the basis for discussion. These questions
should be thoughtful and help enhance or expand our discussions beyond comprehension and into
analysis. (5 points each/10 points)
 The relationship application should include an explanation of the relationship (any information you want
to share), what the issue you hope your application will address is, and how you will implement the
idea/concept/tool in order to improve or enhance the situation as explained by a clear example. (20
points)

Communication Analysis Presentations (100 points each/200 points total): Choose a movie, tv show, or
book where you see a relationship, scene, or story arc that illustrates a subsection of one of the chapters from
section 1-5 or from section 6-10. Find at least two external sources to help develop your understanding and
application of the concepts from the chapter. In a 3-5 page essay, briefly explain the story/characters, share what
subsection of the text you are illustrating, and use the information from the text and your source to analyze the
relationships and/or communication of the text. You will also cultivate a 5-6 minute presentation that highlights
what you learned that includes visual support for your work.

Participation (100): This is a discussion heavy course where participation includes speaking in small and large
group formats. Participation also includes being a great listener, attentive nonverbal communication, consistent
attendance, and submitting your work on time.

Class Schedule
Any changes to the syllabus will be emailed and/or changed on the course calendar in Moodle. Students are
responsible for keeping up with changes to the course schedule, regularly checking email/Moodle, and for
adhering to the policies outlined in this syllabus.

Date Class Discussion Topic Due before class

8/23 Introduction
8/25 Introduction Bring in an example of either successful or
unsuccessful intercultural communication
competence from social media; be ready to
explain it to the class.
8/30 The Foundations of Interpersonal Read Chapter 1
Communication
9/1 The Foundations of Interpersonal Read Chapter 1
Communication
9/6 Culture & Interpersonal Read Chapter 2
Communication
9/8 No Class Meeting
9/13 Culture & Interpersonal Read Chapter 2
Communication
S&S due by 12pm on 9/12
9/15 Interpersonal Communication & Read Chapter 3
the Self
9/20 Interpersonal Communication & Read Chapter 3
the Self
S&S due by 12pm on 9/19
9/22 Perceiving Others Read Chapter 4

9/27 Perceiving Others Read Chapter 4

S&S due by 12pm on 9/26

9/29 No Class Meeting
10/4 Language Read Chapter 5

10/6 Language Read Chapter 5

S&S due by 12pm on 10/5

10/11 FALL BREAK
10/13 Communication Analysis
Presentations Group 1
10/18 Communication Analysis
Presentations Group 2
10/20 Communication Analysis
Presentations Group 3
10/25 Nonverbal Communication Read Chapter 6

10/27 Nonverbal Communication Read Chapter 6

S&S due by 12pm on 10/26

11/1 Listening: Receiving and Read Chapter 7
Responding
11/3 Listening: Receiving and Read Chapter 7
Responding
S&S due by 12pm on 11/2
11/8 Emotions Read Chapter 8

11/10 Emotions Read Chapter 8

S&S due by 12pm on 11/9

11/15 Dynamics of Interpersonal Read Chapter 9
Relationships
11/17 Dynamics of Interpersonal Read Chapter 9
Relationships
S&S due by 12pm on 11/16
11/22 Communication in Close Read Chapter 10
Relationships
11/24 Holiday Break
11/29 Communication in Close Read Chapter 10
Relationships
S&S due by 12pm on 11/28
12/1 Communication Analysis
Presentations Group 1
Final Finals Presentation Thursday, Dec 8 @9:00am-11:00am
Groups 2&3

Course Policies
Attendance Policy
You are expected to attend all classes. If you have any barriers to attendance please communicate those to me
asap or as they become relevant.

Excused Absence Make Up Work Policy

If you have a university excused absence then you will be able to make up missed work. If you have an
unexcused absence your ability to make up missed work is determined by the instructor.

Excused Absence Defined

Per University regulations, excused absences must fall into one of two categories: sanctioned anticipated
situations and documented emergency situations. Anticipated situations (e.g., participation in official University
functions, court attendance, religious observances, or military duty) must be submitted in writing at the
beginning of the semester or one week prior to the anticipated absence. Emergency absences (e.g., student
illness, injury or death of immediate family member) must be documented by the Student Organization
Resource Center 515-3323 within one week following the emergency. Make-up work will be allowed for
excused absences only.

If a situation emerges that might impact your attendance please contact me ASAP to discuss possible solutions.
For information regarding NCSU’s attendance policy, go to:
https://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-20-03-attendance-regulations/

Course Continuity Statement

To ensure course continuity, changes made to the method of instructional delivery, course structure, course
schedule, number of assignments, grading or other aspects of the course after the start of the term should be
communicated to all students in written form (e.g., dated syllabus revision or syllabus addendum) when course
changes are implemented.

Letter Grades
This Course uses Standard NC State University Letter Grading Scale

97 ≤ A+ ≤100 77 ≤ C+ <80
93 ≤ A < 97 73 ≤ C < 77
90 ≤ A- < 93 70 ≤ C- < 73
87 ≤ B+ < 90 67 ≤ D+ < 70
83 ≤ B < 87 63 ≤ D < 67
80 ≤ B- < 83 60 ≤ D- < 63
 0≤ F < 60

Requirements for Auditors (AU)

Auditors must consult with the instructor. For details refer to: http://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-20-04

Policy on Incomplete Grades

Students will not be given a temporary grade of IN (incomplete) unless they have attended classes regularly for
most of the semester, have completed at least 60% of required work, have missed required work as a result of
factors beyond their control, and have submitted satisfactory documentary evidence. An IN grade not removed
by the end of the next semester in which the student is enrolled or by the end of twelve months, whichever is
earlier, will automatically become an F (unless the student can present a compelling, well-documented case for
the extension). For the NC State policy on grading and IN grades, see http://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-
50-03

Information on Grade & Grade Point Average

For more information on grades/gpa, please go here https://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-50-03/

Academic Integrity
All students are expected to follow the University policy on academic integrity found in the student code of
conduct. All standards of academic honesty will be strictly enforced. All students are bound by the honor code,
which states: “I have neither given nor received unauthorized aid on this test or assignment.” Your signature on
any test or assignment, as well as all other submitted work or delivered speeches, is considered a confirmation
that you are following the honor code. Please consult the following website for further details on student
conduct:
http://studentconduct.ncsu.edu/

Electronically Hosted Course Components

Moodle will be used to post assignments, track absences, host grades and share reminders about classes. Please
refer to Moodle throughout the semester.

Regarding Online Participation

Students may be required to disclose personally identifiable information to other students in the course, via
electronic tools like email or web-postings, where relevant to the course. Examples include online discussions
of class topics, and posting of student coursework. All students are expected to respect the privacy of each other
by not sharing or using such information outside the course. Only students enrolled in the course can view
student speeches.

Laptop Computers and Other Electronic Devices.

You will need to be able to access course materials via an electronic device. You may use any device (phone,
tablet, laptop, etc.) that suits this purpose. If you are distracting others with yoru device we may need to have a
conversation about constructive participation.

No course recording may occur without prior permission from the instructor
(http://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-20-11).

Accommodations for Disabilities

Reasonable accommodations will be made for students with verifiable disabilities. In order to take advantage of
available accommodations, student must register with the Disability Services Office (http://www.ncsu.edu/dso)
located at 1900 Student Health Center, Campus Box 7509, 919-515-7653. For more information on NC State's
policy on working with students with disabilities, please see the Academic Accommodations for Students with
Disabilities Regulation at https://policies.ncsu.edu/regulation/reg-02-20-01/

Non-Discrimination Policy
NC State University provides equality of opportunity in education and employment for all students and
employees. Accordingly, NC State affirms its commitment to maintain a work environment for all employees
and an academic environment for all students that is free from all forms of discrimination. Discrimination
based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation is a
violation of state and federal law and/or NC State University policy and will not be tolerated. Harassment of
any person (either in the form of quid pro quo or creation of a hostile environment) based on race, color,
religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation also is a violation of
state and federal law and/or NC State University policy and will not be tolerated. Retaliation against any person
who complains about discrimination is also prohibited. NC State’s policies and regulations covering
discrimination, harassment, and retaliation may be accessed at http://policies.ncsu.edu/policy/pol-04-25-05.

Trans Inclusive Policy

In an effort to affirm and respect the identities of transgender students in the classroom and beyond, please
contact me if you wish to be referred to using a name and/or pronouns other than what is listed in the student
directory.

Code of Conduct
All students at North Carolina State University (NC State) are responsible for conducting themselves in a
manner that helps enhance an environment of learning in which the rights, dignity, worth, and freedom of each
member of the academic community are respected.  Violations of campus or University policies, rules or
regulations, or federal, state, or local law may result in a violation of the Code of Student Conduct and
imposition of sanctions. For more information please view http://policies.ncsu.edu/policy/pol-11-35-01.

Title IX Resources

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the
basis of sex in federally funded education programs and activities.

NC State University is committed to helping create a safe and open learning environment for all students and
for the University as a whole. If you (or someone you know) have experienced any form of sexual misconduct,
including sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, know that help and support are available. NC
State University has staff members trained to support survivors in navigating campus life, accessing health and
counseling services, providing academic and housing accommodations, and more. NC State University strongly
encourages all members of the community to take action, seek support and report incidents of sexual
misconduct to the Title IX Office.

Please note, I am considered a responsible employee at the NC State University, meaning that I am required to
report all known relevant details about a complaint of sexual violence to the University's Title IX Coordinator,
including names of anyone involved or present, date, time, and location.

If you wish to speak to a confidential employee who does not have this reporting responsibility, you can contact
the Counseling Center (919.515.2423), Student Health Center (919.515.7107), or a religious counselor. For
more information about reporting options please visit https://diversity.ncsu.edu/title-ix/. For support resources
both at NC State and in the community, please consult https://protectthepack.dasa.ncsu.edu/sexual-assault/.
Programs Available to Assist You

Academic policies and procedures: All NC State academic policies, procedures, and regulations are available
at http://policies.ncsu.edu/; codes of student conduct can be found here:
https://studentconduct.dasa.ncsu.edu/code/

Academic calendar: https://studentservices.ncsu.edu/calendars/academic/. Make sure you check the calendar

for drop/add dates. Check your schedule just before the last drop day to avoid any unexpected final grades.
Additionally, the last day to use the Enhanced S/U and Late Drop options are also available on the academic
calendar.

Academic Advising Services: Academic Advising Services provides walk-in advising to degree-seeking
students exploring majors, current information on General Education, Declaring Majors and Minors, and
Academic Policies. (https://advising.dasa.ncsu.edu).

Academic Success Center: The Academic Success Center is located on the second floor in D H Hill Jr Library
(asc.dasa.ncsu.edu.) They are offering many programs, including an academic peer mentoring program for
students who want regular support with time management and study skills. They also offer drop-in tutoring,
group, one-on-one tutoring and writing appointments. The Academic Success Center space is on the 2nd floor
of the DH Hill Jr Library, and is open for general student use at all times when the library is open. Please note
that an NC State ID is required for building access and a mask must be worn at all times.

English as a second language: To find out more information, go to the following web site:
http://fll.chass.ncsu.edu/esl/.

Career Development Center: The Career Development Center is here to assist you charting a course for career
planning and job readiness. Visit them on the web at https://cdc.dasa.ncsu.edu.

Pack Essentials: A recent survey of NC State students found that 14% of students reported some degree of
food insecurity (https://news.ncsu.edu/2018/03/food-housing-insecurity/). Feed The Pack is NC State’s
response to address food insecurity among our students. They are located at 2221 Dunn Avenue
(https://feedthepack.dasa.ncsu.edu/). There are additional resources available for students experiencing
problems meeting basic needs at the Pack Essentials site (https://dasa.ncsu.edu/pack-essentials/)

Student Wellness Coaching: There are times when we need assistance in managing stress, getting more (or
better) sleep, and more productive time management strategies. Student Wellness Coaching is is a free service,
providing NC State students with the education, support and encouragement to develop healthy lifestyle
behaviors. https://wellrec.dasa.ncsu.edu/wellness-2/wellness-coaching/student-wellness-coaching/

Counseling Center: https://counseling.dasa.ncsu.edu/

The Counseling Center provides counseling for NC State students experiencing personal, academic or
vocational problems. Psychological assessment and psychiatric consultation are also available. Services are
primarily short-term in nature and referrals to other helping professionals and community agencies are made as
appropriate. Strict confidentiality is assured. Many services are free to currently enrolled students of North
Carolina State University. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Counseling Center is not accepting walk-in
appointments. Please call them at (919) 515-2423 to speak with a counselor.

Prevention Services: https://prevention.dasa.ncsu.edu/

NC State Prevention Services provides case management, education and outreach emphasizing inclusive,
developmental, and non-judgmental perspectives for student prevention efforts. Through the lenses of
behavioral health, wellness, and sustainability, our professionals cross-collaborate with the campus community
to enhance individual and collective well-being, as well as assisting students to gain the necessary resources to
remain successful academically and emotionally at NC State.

Student Ombuds Services: https://ombuds.dasa.ncsu.edu/

The NC State Student Ombuds is an independent, neutral, confidential and informal office at NC State to assist
students and be a personal guide for conflict management, prevention and resolution. We advocate for fair
processes, working to empower the student to successfully navigate NC State to address challenges and identify
resources.

Student Legal Services: https://studentlegal.dasa.ncsu.edu/

University Student Legal Services (USLS) is a nonprofit corporation created by Student Government and
funded by student fees. The purpose of USLS is to provide education, advice, and representation within the
scope of the prepaid student legal services plan. The USLS plan is registered with the North Carolina State Bar.
To make an appointment: 919.515.7091, or email studentlegal@ncsu.edu (confidential).

African American Cultural Center: https://oied.ncsu.edu/divweb/aacc/

The African American Cultural Center promotes awareness of and appreciation for African American and other
African descent experiences through activities and events that enhance academic excellence and strengthen
cultural competence for the campus and surrounding communities.

GLBT Center: https://oied.ncsu.edu/divweb/glbt/

The GLBT Center serves students of all sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions, including
gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, queer, transgender, genderqueer, gender fluid, gender non-
conforming, non-binary, agender, intersex and questioning students and their allies. It strives to increase the NC
State campus community’s understanding of diversity by working collaboratively to raise awareness, promote
respect, and create a culture of equity, inclusion and social justice.

Military and Veteran’s Services: https://veterans.dasa.ncsu.edu/

The NC State University Military and Veterans Resource Center is the university’s centralized resource to
coordinate integrated support to military-affiliated students.

Multicultural Student Affairs: https://oied.ncsu.edu/divweb/msa/

Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) researches, designs and implements unique programs that promote the
pursuit of academic success, retention and graduation of students, with an emphasis on African American,
Native American and Hispanic/Latino students. Our programs and services expand students’ cultural horizons
while honoring their respective cultural experiences. We work to bring academic enhancement opportunities,
cultural awareness activities and student leadership development to all students on campus.

Women’s Center: https://oied.ncsu.edu/divweb/womenscenter/

The mission of the Women’s Center is to build and create a community of authentic and engaged allies and
leaders to pursue gender equity and social justice; enhancing the campus climate through education, advocacy,
support and leadership development.

As the COVID-19 pandemic carries on, public health measures continue to be implemented across campus. 
Students should stay current with these practices and expectations through the Protect the Pack website
(https://www.ncsu.edu/coronavirus/). The sections below provide expectations and conduct related to COVID-
19 issues.
Health and Participation in Class  
We are most concerned about your health and the health of your classmates and instructors/TAs. 
 If you test positive for COVID-19, or are told by a healthcare provider that you are presumed positive
for the virus, please work with your instructor on health accommodations and follow other university
guidelines, including self-reporting: https://healthypack.dasa.ncsu.edu/coronavirus/.   
 If you are in quarantine, have been notified that you may have been exposed to COVID-19, or have a
personal or family situation related to COVID-19 that prevents you from attending this course in person
(or synchronously), please connect with your instructor to discuss the situation and make alternative
plans, as necessary.
 If you need to make a request for an academic consideration related to COVID-19, such as a discussion
about possible options for remote learning, please talk with your advisor for the appropriate process to
make a COVID-19 request.
Health and Well-Being Resources
Everyone is encouraged to take care of themselves and their peers. If you need additional support, there are
many resources on campus to help you:
 Counseling Center (NCSU Counseling Center) 
 Student Health Services (Health Services | Student) 
 If the personal behavior of a classmate concerns or worries you, either for the classmate’s well-being or
yours, we encourage you to report this behavior to the NC State CARES team:  (Share a Concern).  
 If you or someone you know are experiencing food, housing or financial insecurity, please see the Pack
Essentials Program (Pack Essentials). 
Community Standards related to COVID-19
We are all responsible for protecting ourselves and our community.  Please see the community standards and
Rule 04.21.01 regarding Personal Safety Requirements Related to COVID-19  RUL 04.21.01 – Personal Safety
Requirements Related to COVID-19 – Policies, Regulations & Rules
Course Expectations Related to COVID-19:
 Face Coverings: All members of the NC State academic community are expected to follow all
university policies and guidelines, including the Personal Safety Rule and community standards, for the
use of face coverings.  
 Course Attendance: NC State attendance policies can be found at:  REG 02.20.03 – Attendance
Regulations – Policies, Regulations & Rules.  Please refer to the course’s attendance, absence, and
deadline policies for additional details. If you become ill with COVID-19, you should follow the steps
outlined in the health and participation section above. 
 Technology Requirements:  This course may require particular technologies to complete coursework. 
Be sure to review the syllabus for these expectations, and see the syllabus technical requirements for
your course. If you need access to additional technological support, please contact  the Libraries’
Technology Lending Service:  (Technology Lending).    
Need Help?
If you find yourself in a place where you need help, academically or otherwise, please review these Step-by-
Step Help Topics.
Other Important Resources 
 Keep Learning: Keep Learning
 Protect the Pack FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions | Protect the Pack
 NC State Protect the Pack Resources for Students: Resources for Students | Protect the Pack
 Academic Success Center (tutoring, drop in advising, career and wellness advising): Academic Success
Center.
 NC State Keep Learning, tips for students opting to take courses remotely:
Keep Learning Tips for Remote Learning 
 Introduction to Zoom for students:
https://youtu.be/5LbPzzPbYEw
 Learning with Moodle, a student’s guide to using Moodle:
https://moodle-projects.wolfware.ncsu.edu/course/view.php?id=226
 NC State Libraries Technology Lending Program
o not immediately available, use an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer containing ≥60% alcohol.