Communication Theory

In this course communication interaction is analyzed and integrated into a wider interdisciplinary field combining issues from cognitive science, consciousness studies and theories of emotion. More specifically, the subjects integrated in this course are: characteristics of human communication, verbal and non-verbal communication, perception and audience theory, expressions of emotions and their importance in human relations, cultural interpretation of emotions and its relevance in audiovisual arts.

In the context of the course, an experiential workshop is held in order to get to know the body, the importance of breathing, proprioception and how the relationship with the body is linked to the ability to communicate with the other. Confidence exercises and improvisations, emphasis on the strength of the team to achieve the goals.

Students will acquire the ability to understand communication phenomena and be familiar with the basic elements of interpersonal communication. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:

- understanding the types of human communication

- understanding the perceptual process and its influences in communication

- expressing within a multicultural environment concerning the meaning in verbal and non verbal communication

- identifying basic facial expressions having in perspective individual differences in emotional development.

1st Week: Elements, principles and characteristics of interpersonal communication.
2nd Week: Audience, culture and gender.
3rd Week: Self in interpersonal communication.
4th Week: Verbal communication.
5th Week: Non-verbal communication. The gaze.
6th Week: Emotions and socialization. Cultural understanding of emotions.
7th Week: Definition and examples of emotions. Emotional development. Emotional awareness in literature, fine arts and theatre.
8th Week: Role, projection, dramaturgy, idealization.
9th Week: Control of facial expressions, misrepresentation, embarrassment and awe, reality and invention.
10th Week: Group performance, area.
11th Week: Public and private sphere of communication. Nomadic media.
12th Week: Presentation of final assignment (part 1).
13th Week: Presentation of final assignment (part 2).

Darwin, Charles, The expression of emotions in man and animals (1872), Oxford University Press: 2002.

Oatley, Keith and Jennifer M. Jenkins, Understanding Emotions, Oxford: John Wiley and Sons, 1996.

Goffman, Erving, The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life, New York: Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group, 1959.

Material available on the e-class platform.

Lectures.
Home assignments.

Experiential workshop.

Enhanced by multimedia content.
The learning process is supported by the asyncrhonous e-learning platform e-class.

Written examination paper.
Final written assignment.
Oral presentation of final written assignment.