SE1107: Introduction to Human Communication

School Language and Communication
Department Code ENCAP
Module Code SE1107
External Subject Code Q310
Number of Credits 20
Level L4
Language of Delivery English
Module Leader Dr Elisabeth El Refaie
Semester Autumn Semester
Academic Year 2013/4

Outline Description of Module

This module introduces some of the main themes, theories and concepts that underpin the study of human communication, by applying these to a broad range of different media and genres, including advertisements, cartoons, novels, photographs and films. We discuss the nature of signs and the ways in which they are organised into complex systems. We also consider the important role of metaphor, narrative, and humour in human communication. Another central topic is the discursive construction and ‘performance’ of various aspects of human identity.

On completion of the module a student should be able to

a)    Demonstrate a good knowledge of several different scholarly approaches to human communication and an ability to apply them to concrete examples.

b)    Understand the social and political contexts of the production and interpretation of signs.

How the module will be delivered

Timetabled sessions include 2 lectures and 1 small-group seminar per week. Lectures are usually supplemented with PowerPoint slides and handouts summarising content at a reasonable level of detail.  Audio and video are used in this module. Transcripts are provided where the audio or visual texts are analysed in detail or are a core element of the lecture/seminar.

Both lectures and seminars will often require you to analyse practical examples of various kinds, for example, jokes, advertisements, newspaper articles, or video clips. There will usually be specific preparation tasks to complete in advance of each seminar. During seminars, you will be required to contribute actively to the discussions. You will be given sufficient time to prepare and practice your contribution, either before the class or in pair or group work in class.

Students are encouraged to discuss any specific access needs with staff in advance of taking this module.

Skills that will be practised and developed

On completion of the module a student should be able to read academic texts of different levels of complexity; assess the value of key concepts in human communication; express an argument clearly; research and write a short academic essay (using accurate referencing conventions).

How the module will be assessed

Coursework (50%); and Written Examination (50%)

In the exam you will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of a range of different concepts and approaches to Human Communication. You may also be asked to analyse some data. You will be given more specific information about the structure of the exam in the Module Outline at the beginning of the module.

The coursework gives you the opportunity to explore a topic in depth through a short essay. The essay titles and submission dates are provided in the Module Outline. The essay should demonstrate a good understanding of some of the key scholarly approaches to Human Communication introduced in the first half of the module. It should also develop a clear and convincing argument.

The module is assessed according to the Assessment Criteria set out in the English Language and Communication Course Guide (you will receive a copy of this at enrolment). Otherwise, there are no academic or competence standards which limit the availability of adjustments or alternative assessments for students with disabilities.

Assessment Breakdown

Type % Title Duration(hrs)
Exam - Autumn Semester 50 Introduction To Human Communication 1
Written Assessment 50 Coursework N/A

Syllabus content

Human communication and culture

Signs and sign systems

Verbal and visual forms of metaphor

Narrative: Why do we tell stories?

Humour: What makes us laugh?

Human identity as performance

Essential Reading and Resource List

Chandler, D. (2002) Semiotics: The Basics. London: Routledge.

Fiske, J. (1992) Introduction to Communication Studies. London: Routledge. Extract 39–59. [available as an electronic book on Voyager]

Jaworski, A. and Coupland, N. (eds.) (2006) The Discourse Reader. 2nd edition. London: Routledge.

Van Leeuwen, T. (2005) Introducing Social Semiotics. London: Routledge.

A Course Reader will be available for this module from Blackwell’s bookshop from the start of semester 1.


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