COMM 2760 - Persuasion and Social Influence

(SBA)

Spring. 3 credits.

Prerequisite: COMM 1101.

P. McLeod.

Social influence and persuasion are the most basic and important functions of communication. The course covers characteristics of persuasive messages, message sources, and targets; interpersonal influence; and influence in groups, organizations, and institutions. Special emphasis is given to topics in health, science, risk, media, and technology. This course is taught with a case-study format with strong emphasis on class attendance and participation. Supplementing the cases are interactive lectures and in-class activities and demonstrations. A semester-long field research project done in groups is a major component of the course. Exams and short individual homework assignments are also part of the student evaluation.