COMM 2760 - Persuasion and Social Influence

(SBA-AG)

Spring. 3 credits. Letter grades only.

Forbidden Overlap: ILROB 2240.

J. P. Schuldt, staff.

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. Special emphasis is given to topics in health, science, risk. This course features interactive lectures, assignments that apply principles of persuasion to real world contexts, and an applied group research project. Exams, homework assignments, and the group research project comprise the bulk of student evaluation.

Outcome 1: Gain understanding of basic theories of persuasion and social influence.

Outcome 2: Learn how to apply theories of persuasion and social influence in a variety of real world settings.

Outcome 3: Develop abilities to critically process persuasive messages and make informed decisions in everyday life.

Outcome 4: Increase skills in working in teams.

Outcome 5: Improve students’ abilities in planning and designing persuasive messages.