What This Document Is
These are lecture notes from COMM 140, Public Speaking, at Central Connecticut State University, taught by Professor Mary J. Moriarty. The notes cover foundational concepts in public speaking, ethical considerations, the importance of listening, and the historical “5 Canons of Rhetoric.” It’s a comprehensive overview of the core elements explored in an introductory public speaking course.
Why This Document Matters
These notes are essential for students currently enrolled in COMM 140. They provide a structured record of lecture material, aiding in comprehension and retention. Prospective students considering the course can also use these notes to gauge the scope and content of the curriculum. Anyone interested in the fundamentals of effective communication will find value in this overview. The notes are particularly useful for review before quizzes or exams, and for clarifying key terminology.
Common Limitations or Challenges
These notes are a *record* of lectures, not a substitute for attending class or engaging with course materials. They represent a specific instructor’s approach and may not encompass all perspectives on public speaking. The notes are not a self-contained public speaking textbook; they require context from readings, assignments, and in-class discussions. This preview does not include practice exercises or detailed examples.
What This Document Provides
The full document includes:
* An introduction to public speaking, differentiating it from private communication and outlining key similarities and differences.
* A breakdown of the transactional model of communication, including elements like communicators, encoding/decoding, message, feedback, channel, and noise.
* A detailed exploration of ethics in public speaking, covering ethical goals, plagiarism, fabrication, and ethical listening practices.
* A discussion of the importance of listening, distinguishing between hearing and listening, and outlining different types of listening.
* An overview of the 5 Canons of Rhetoric: Invention and Arrangement (with further canons outlined but not detailed).
* Coverage of barriers to effective listening and strategies for improvement.