Communication 325

Intercultural Communication
Sacramento City College
Course Outline
Spring 2015
Instructor: David Fabionar
Email Address: fabiond@scc.losrios.edu
Office Phone: 558-2558
Office: PAC 135E
Office Hours: MW: 12-1:30pm and TTH 12-1pm; Fri by appointment
Text:
Lustig, MyronW., and Koester, Jolene, Intercultural Competence, 5th or 6th edition
Website: Interculturalcom.weebly.com
Other materials: Three Scantron 886-E will be required for your exams
CATALOG COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course introduces students to the challenges and promises of intercultural
communication in U.S. domestic situations. Variations and commonalities in
communication patterns across cultures are examined, as well as processes and outcomes
between persons of different group-based experiential backgrounds. Practical application
of factors which influence communication between individuals of different cultures is
emphasized.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Demonstrate an understanding of the history, evolution, and multidisciplinary nature of
communication theories as they apply to the study of intercultural communication.
Identify theorists and synthesize their perspectives on identity, taxonomies, prejudice,
values, behaviors, acculturation, conflict, and approaches in intercultural communication
encounters.
Recognize and differentiate between various perspectives in anthropology, psychology,
critical theory, and communication as they relate to the study of intercultural
communication.
Analyze evidence and reasoning to identify and provide appropriate and credible support
for written and oral communication.
Contrast the influence of verbal and nonverbal codes as they relate to communication
barriers across cultures.
Evaluate and demonstrate individual responsibility, integrity, respect, and influence to
effectively and appropriately communicate with diverse people.
Identify appropriate communication career and academic options in intercultural
communication.
Hypothesize the impact of social influences on individual identity as related to self and
others.

Demonstrate college level writing.

Cite sources in appropriate academic reference form.

COURSE POLICIES:
Attendance: If you miss class within the first few weeks, you may be dropped from
the course. Consistent attendance will greatly increase the probability of achieving a
high grade. I will offer activity points nearly every day we meet. If you take part in the
class activities, you will earn the points. Activities vary throughout the semester
(quizzes, group projects, presentations, critiques etc.). If you are absent from class, you
will not be able to earn the participation points; excessive absences (more than two) may
lead to being dropped from the class. You must participate from start to finish of each
class in order to receive the assignment credit for that particular day. If you are going to
miss consecutive days, you will need to contact me via email, or by visiting during office
hours. Lastly, it is your responsibility to sign the roll sheet. I will send it around during
the class period and collect it at the end.
Cooperative Community: I want this class to function as a cooperative community of
people. As a community member, you need to behave responsibly both individually and
to your group. This means that if you miss a class you are responsible for the material
missed. I urge you to find a course partner the first week with whom you can exchange
phone numbers. Ask this person to look for you each day in class, and tell him or her that
youll do the same. When a partner misses class, pick up an extra handout for her and
have him do the same for you. Call your partner to find out what was missed and dont let
them get away with saying, We really didnt do anything today. Use the same courtesy
when working with your group members.
Electronic Communication Devices: A pet peeve of mine! Interruptions from cell
phones, texting in class etc. will not be tolerated. Leave your phones at home or turn
off the ringer. Please do not text message in class! I reserve the right to subtract the
days participation points if you are using these devices. If you use a laptop in class,
please sit in the front row.
Grade Discussion: I believe that you all have the right to appeal any grade or point
allocation you believe you were unfairly given. In part, communication courses should
encourage you to question and not I, nor any other instructor should be exempt from your
freedom to question. However, I will not discuss a particular grade with you on the day I
hand it back. If you wish to contest a grade I will accept a written argument detailing the
said injustice. The appeal will be due one week after the assignment has been given back
to you.
Plagiarizing/Cheating: I follow the departmental policy on plagiarism. Anyone caught
cheating or plagiarizing in this course will be subject to failure of the assignment in
question.

Chronic Tardiness/Leaving Class Early: If you are chronically tardy, or always need to
leave early then drop this course and take it when your schedule allows you to be here the
duration of class time. You will miss many opportunities to earn participation points
because of your inability to attend the entire class period.
Late Assignments: Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period and will not
be accepted thereafter unless you can show me verification of an emergency i.e. a note
from a doctor. I do not accept assignments via email.
Tests: Please be on time for exams. As soon as one person finishes an exam, I will not
allow a late arriving student to begin a test. The material in this class is not necessarily
difficult; however, there is a great deal of it. The tests are intended to keep you on track.
This will help me determine if someone is having trouble keeping up. The tests will also
help you remember the key concepts and terms. If you have questions, please dont
hesitate to ask!
Assessment:
3 Exams
(Worth 30 points each)
Take-home Final essay
Progress presentation
Group presentation
Group website
Participation points
Journal Entries

90
30
10
50
20
50
100
350

A= 350-315
B= 314-280
C= 279-245
D= 244-210
F= <210