2005-06 Undergraduate Catalog
Indiana, Pennsylvania 15705
 

Department of Communications Media

College of Education and Educational Technology

Credit designation below each title is expressed in (c) class hours per week, (l) lab or (d) discussion section hours per week, and (cr) credits per semester.

COMM 101 Communications Media in American Society

3c-0l-3cr

Required of Communications Media majors. An introduction to the evolution, status, and future of communications media. Explores intrapersonal communication through self-assessment, values clarification, and feedback; interpersonal communication through interviews, observations, case studies, and gaming; and mass communications through the examination of the processes and the technology utilized to disseminate and manage information. Career paths, field applications, professional associations, and the primary literature are investigated.

COMM 103 Digital Instructional Technology

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: Education major

Introduces freshman pre-service teachers to the ever-changing world of digital instructional technology. Learners are exposed to computer-based tools of the trade used by teachers in the delivery and management of instruction. Does not count towards credits needed for COMM major.

COMM 150 Aesthetics and Theory of Communications Media

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 101

Examines the theoretical assumptions of sight, sound, and motion as applied to the design of communication products for different media formats. Within the course, strategies for creative composition are demonstrated. Psychological and physiological implications of images are discussed.

COMM 201 Internet and Multimedia

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: BTED/COSC/IFMG 101 or prior exposure to word processing and electronic mail

Focuses on the evaluation of information and multimedia resources available on electronic networks when doing research in an area of one’s choice. Information literacy course is designed for students to gain a more in-depth understanding of the information resources available electronically and of how to utilize them more effectively in communicating. Students learn how to access and utilize these resources for two-way communications and support for decision making while incorporating selected elements in multimedia presentations of their own design. (BTED/COMM/COSC/IFMG/LIBR 201 may be used interchangeably for D or F repeats and may not be counted for duplicate credit.)

COMM 205 Media Presentation Skills

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 150, COMM majors only

Introduces basic presentation skills, emphasizing the use of media to enhance presentations. Research, organize, and write presentations, design appropriate media, and deliver presentations in various settings, including to large groups, on camera, and in groups with other students.

COMM 230 Issues in International Communication

3c-0l-3cr

A survey of international communications with particular emphasis on communications flow, four-press theories, ownership, structure and access to media, government/media relationships, and the impact of communications on developed and developing countries.

COMM 240 Communications Graphics

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 101 or permission

An introduction to graphic design concepts and related processes and techniques for a variety of forms of presentation media including television, multimedia, and on-line communications for educational, corporate training, and communications specialists. Both two- and three-dimensional design and basic animation concepts are explored. Hands-on experiences using a variety of graphic software applications.

COMM 249 Basic Audio Recording Techniques

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, permission

Theory and practice of recording sound, developing an understanding of the language of sound recording as well as the ability to make sound recordings. Offers exposure to recording for various media including radio, music, motion pictures, television, and multimedia production. Material also appropriate for teachers who wish to make use of tape recorder in the classroom. Provides hands-on experience through labs and projects to be completed outside of class. Students are expected to provide an audio tape recorder.

COMM 251 Television Production

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, permission

Develops basic skills in television production and direction. Consideration of operating problems of a television studio, as well as functions, limitations, and capabilities of television equipment and facilities.

COMM 271 Beginning Photography

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 101 or permission

Working with black-and-white materials, the student learns to operate a camera, develop film, make contact prints and enlargements, and mount prints for display. Ancillary topics are introduced such as filtration, print spotting, flash, and the use of accessory lenses. Student is required to have a 35mm camera, preferably a single-lens reflex, with fully manual focusing and exposure capability.

COMM 281 Special Topics

var-1-3cr

Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content

Offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 281 are offered primarily for lower-level undergraduate students.

COMM 302 Research in Communications Media

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 150, ENGL 101 and 202 (grade of C or better)

Provides knowledge of the resource materials and research strategies used in the communications media field. Students design basic data gathering instruments, collect data, and assimilate information from various sources and data into communication products, services, or documents.

COMM 303 Scriptwriting

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, ENGL 101 and 202 (grade of C or better) or instructor permission

An introduction to the design of media materials and script writing. Style and techniques of writing are analyzed. Classroom emphasis is on writing, critiques, and revision of designs and scripts. Scripts for audio, multimedia presentations, and motion picture and television productions will be written.

COMM 305 Electronic Media Programming and Sales

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150

Explores two primary functions of the electronic media: providing programming for audiences and providing economic viability to media outlets by selling commercial time to clients. Explores topics such as program development, scheduling, and promotion. Also explores the basic strategies used in the electronic media to sell commercial time and the use of audience and ratings analysis in the processes of programming and sales.

COMM 330 Instructional Design for Training and Development

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, ENGL 101 and 202 (grade of C or better) or permission or instructor

Examines the systems approach for the design, development, and evaluation of instructional material. Students learn about the history of instructional design and development and the current status of the field. Each student produces a self-instructional prototype that requires the student to systematically and creatively apply the concepts and rules learned.

COMM 335 Communications Consulting and Project Management 

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 101

Presents the theoretical views and clinical applications of consulting skills and practices associated with and needed by communication professionals. Presented are the functions and role of the consultant, the client’s perspective on consulting, hiring a consultant, ethics in consulting, personal assessment tests, and related literature and models.

COMM 340 Advanced Communication Graphics

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 240, permission

Provides in-depth experience in planning and preparing graphic materials commonly used in the communications profession; graphic materials include design, photosketching, lettering, slide titling and duplication, preparation of camera-ready art, lithographic film and master layout sheets, professional slide flat production and photocopy, large-format transparency production, color key, and color systems.

COMM 345 Television Criticism

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150 or instructor permission

The medium of television offers a unique environment for development and delivery of information, entertainment, and news. Explores and analyzes television programming. Includes examination of genres ranging from situation comedy to drama, to mini-series and made-for-TV movies.

COMM 349 Radio Production

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150 or instructor permission

An introduction to production techniques as they pertain to radio. Exposure to programming, scripting, producing programs, intros, outros, commercials, public service announcements, station identifications, and promotional announcements. Also deals with the interaction of a radio station with national networks and with the real-life concerns of deadlines.

COMM 351 Advanced Video Production

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 251

A production course that emphasizes advanced field production techniques. Some topics include field lighting, video post-production editing with A-B roll, on-line editing, and nonlinear editing. Provides hands-on experience through projects and field trips.

COMM 354 Broadcast Regulation

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150 or instructor permission

Delves into the areas of law affecting broadcasters. Covers laws pertaining to cable television, station licensing and renewal, political broadcasting, libel, copyright, the right of reply, and privacy. Examines the historical development of the FCC and its jurisdictions. Discusses case studies along with the relevancy of some laws as they pertain to today’s society.

COMM 371 Photography II: The Print

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 271, permission

Develop camera and print-making skills to the degree that salon-quality photographic prints can be produced. Students will understand the photographic processes utilized in producing a high-quality negative and print to the extent that they can manipulate those processes to communicate an intended message with their photographs. Emphasizes camera and print control as well as composition and negative and print manipulation.

COMM 375 Mass Media and Behavior

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: PSYC 101 and junior or senior status

Theory and research on the influence of the mass media on human behavior and attitudes. Topics include the effects of news and political advertising on public opinion; the effects of racist and sexist portrayals; and the effects of violence and pornography on aggressive behavior. (Also offered as PSYC 375; may be taken only once)

COMM 380 The History of African Americans in Film

3c-0l-3cr

Traces the historical development of the roles of African Americans in film and television. Examines the early stereotypic portrayals of this group, the origins of these stereotypes, and the ongoing changes, positive and negative, that have occurred regarding the media representation through research, film, and archetypal analysis, observation, and discussion. The new generation of African American filmmakers and their creative efforts to promote more realistic portrayals are analyzed.

COMM 390 Practicum in Communications

var-1-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, written permission

An opportunity with credit for students to make contributions to department and campus media-related facilities and offices including WIUP-TV, WIUP-FM, Penn, Media Relations, and Media Resources. Repeatable for a maximum of 6cr.

COMM 395 Career Planning in Communications Media

1c-0l-1cr

Prerequisite: Minimum 20 COMM credits

Serves as a primary skill-building and strategy-seeking experience for the internship program and later career entry and growth. Extensive writing, research, and individual counseling are involved. Travel may be necessary.

COMM 403 Broadcast Newswriting

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, ENGL 101 and 202 (grade of C or better) or instructor permission

Acquaints students with the various styles and script formats used in writing news scripts for radio and television. Includes instruction in writing news stories for radio and television and an introduction to broadcast news production. Practice and work to improve writing skills in this area of broadcast writing.

COMM 405 Process of Digital Game Development

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: Junior/senior standing or instructor permission

Examines the theory and development of digital games. Explores the logics of gameplay, the process of game development, gaming technology, and the psychology of gaming. Also examines the history and organization of the gaming industry. Students also create deliverables around a game concept they develop in the process of completing the course.

COMM 408 Media Field Studies

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 101, junior standing, and instructor permission

A hands-on course designed to help learn about the production process involving on-location production. Has three distinct phases: students begin with research and preproduction tasks on campus, may travel to a remote site to collect additional information and images and use those images to complete a production, and are responsible for travel expenses.

COMM 440 Multimedia Production

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 240 or instructor permission

Learn the processes and techniques of planning, designing, and producing used with interactive multimedia. Provides hands-on experiences in the use of graphics, audio, animation, video, and authoring software applications to produce an aesthetically acceptable product that meets specific objectives. Designed to meet the needs of educational media, corporate training, and communications specialists.

COMM 445 Applications and Techniques of Motion Pictures

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150 or instructor permission

A survey of the role that motion picture film production plays in society. A major emphasis is on the variety of applications with special consideration given to motion pictures as a tool to support research.

COMM 447 Animation

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 444

Introduces animation techniques and offers practical experience in planning and producing animated sequences. Work with filmograph, cut-out, puppet, and full cel animation. Practice in designing, drawing, tracing, inking, and painting cels; preparation of blackboards; use of cel boards; animation camera and stand; preparation of story boards and cue sheets; integration of visual and sound.

COMM 449 Advanced Audio Recording Techniques

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 249, permission

Sound recording utilizing advanced techniques and concentrating on specific applications. Participate in an intensive lab experience utilizing the most advanced equipment available. Emphasizes application, editing, signal processing, and multi-track recording. Student is expected to produce a sound recording for a specific use of professional quality.

COMM 451 Broadcast News Process

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 251, 349, permission

Reporting and presenting radio and TV news programs. Analysis of news and public affairs broadcasting.

COMM 460 Emerging Trends in Communication Technology

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 150

An introduction to the ever-changing world of telecommunication technologies, focusing on modern, computer-driven modes of information exchange. Provides an opportunity to synthesize several of the technologies covered and integrate them into a workable solution to a practical telecommunication problem.

COMM 470 Management Practices in Electronic Communications

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 150, any COMM writing-intensive course, and junior or senior standing

Presents the theory and practice of media management. Areas covered include problem-solving, documenting and reporting, career systems, budgeting, personnel, ownership, unionization, market analysis, and special topics as directly related to communications media industries. Students conduct case study research related to their career direction.

COMM 471 Electronic Imaging

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisite: COMM 271 or permission

An introduction to the use of electronic still photography (ESP) for the capture, recording, and transfer of still images and the use of computers for the storage, manipulation, and output of color and black and white photography. Extensive training in the use of software packages for image enhancement, restoration, and manipulation will be provided. Students learn the applications of this technology to the print media and examine the ethical and legal issues of image manipulation.

COMM 474 Documentary Photography

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: COMM 271, 472, permission

Prepares students to deal with the actions of subjects in both descriptive and interpretive styles. Assigned to photograph a variety of local events in a manner that makes the nature of the event evident to the viewer of the photograph. Also learn differences between printing for reproduction and for exhibit. Required to have a 35mm camera (preferably a manual exposure single-lens reflex) and a flash unit.

COMM 475 Senior Portfolio Presentation

1c-0l-1cr

Prerequisites: Communications Media majors only and COMM 395

Compile and present a series of works produced through previous Communications Media courses and activities. The result is a portfolio suitable for presentation to a potential employer. The portfolio may include examples of student works from a variety of subject areas.

3c-0l-3cr

Prerequisites: Junior or senior standing, other prerequisites as appropriate to course content

A seminar in selected communications issues or problems. Includes the reading and review of the current literature as appropriate to the major topic presented in the seminar.

COMM 481 Special Topics

var-1-3cr

Prerequisite: As appropriate to course content

Offered on an experimental or temporary basis to explore topics not included in the established curriculum. A given topic may be offered under any special topic identity no more than three times. Special topics numbered 481 are primarily for upper-level undergraduate students.

COMM 493 Internship

var-6, 9, 12cr

Prerequisites: COMM 395, department approval

A supervised professional summer work experience in communications media. Sites reflect the academic goals of the department and are approved and administered by a department coordinator. Location, duties, length of internship, and hours are individually tailored to student career goals. Sites represent wide application of process and technology of communications in business, education, allied health, or other agencies. Must complete 40 hours of the internship work experience per credit earned. A maximum of 15cr is applicable to an undergraduate degree program from any combination of internship and practicum experience.