Sarah Brookes

COMN 100 : S/Introduction to Communication

This course introduces key principles and aspects of human communication to improve the appropriateness and effectiveness of our messages. Students will explore the fundamentals of communication–such as perception, verbal and nonverbal messages, and listening-in our daily contexts, including relationships, groups, organizations, cultures, media, technology, and public settings. The course also increases understanding of Communication in relation to other disciplines while exploring the varied writing styles of researchers and practitioners and the scholarly sources central to Communication.

COMN 260 : Introduction to Mass Communication

This course is designed to survey mass communication in both historical and contemporary contexts. Students are introduced to the broad function of mass media, as well as the specific function of each medium. The roles of technology and the impact of mass communication on society and individuals are also explored. Prerequisites: COMN 100.

COMN 342 : Mass Media & Society

This course assesses the evolving and dynamic relationship between mass media and society. Particular attention is paid to how mass mediated messages can define social and cultural realities and the interplay of social influences on these messages. By applying theoretical concepts, students critically examine how mass media function in various contexts, from local communities, national industries and politics, to global systems. Current and past research perspectives are discussed and analyzed. Prerequisites: COMN 100 and COMN 260, or permission of instructor.

COMN 450 : Media Entertainment

Entertainment has become an important interest area within the field of communication. Given the overwhelming portion of Americans' leisure time dedicated to entertainment consumption, scientific inquiry in this area is a necessity. In this course we will explore speculation, theory, and research regarding the uses and effects of entertainment with respect to reading, playing, and watching all sorts of entertainment fare. Readings and lectures will consider work on effects and appeal of media entertainment, emphasizing emotional reactions. Topics include key concepts of entertainment research, and the respective features and emotional/social-psychological effects of genres such as comedy, mystery, suspense, sports, music, horror, and news. Prerequisites: COMN 100 and COMN 260, or permission of instructor.

COMN 452 : Mass Media and Youth

In this course, we will explore processing and effects of various media offerings. Specific topics that will be offered include perception of, attention to, and comprehension of media stimuli, entertainment-education, and advertising. Readings and class discussions will address film, television, video games, the internet, and a wide range of other media. Students should end the course with a greater understanding of the psychological processes that occur during media use, as well as increased knowledge of the effects these processes might have on media consumers. Prerequisites: COMN 100 and COMN 260, or permission of instructor.

COMN 454 : Media Ethics

It is essential for people to understand the application of ethical principles in media. Informed application of these principles can elevate the credibility of media professionals; knowledge of these principles helps the consumer hold the media accountable. Students will learn foundational theories of ethics and apply them to ethical dilemmas in media. We will explore the similarities and differences among ethical issues across different communication settings. By the end of the course, students should know how to make and effectively communicate ethical media choices. Prerequisites: COMN 100 and COMN 260, or permission of instructor.

COMN 456 : Mass Media and the Mind

In this course, we will explore processing and effects of various media offerings. Specific topics that will be offered include perception of, attention to, and comprehension of media stimuli, entertainment-education, and advertising. Readings and class discussions will address film, television, video games, the internet, and a wide range of other media. Students should end the course with a greater understanding of the psychological processes that occur during media use, as well as increased knowledge of the effects these processes might have on media consumers. Prerequisites: COMN 100 and COMN 260, or permission of instructor.

COMN 480 : Communication Research

This course provides an overview of the major trends in contemporary communication research. Areas of focus include quantitative and qualitative methods for researching communication problems in interpersonal and organizational contexts. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing, COMN 100, and a minimum 3.00 average in the major, or permission of instructor.