As the adoption and execution of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) have steadily increased, the debate community is presented with an opportunity to be more forward thinking and sustainable through the translation to curriculum planning and next-generation assessment as a movement towards Performance-Based Assessments. This paper focuses on…

This case study of the Department of Communication at the University of Maryland demonstrates the need to consider course sequencing in the communication curriculum. The investigation assessed whether the order in which undergraduates took courses predicted grade performance. Students' (N = 6,166) grade data from earlier courses were used to…

Many communication scholars recognize the need to regularly explore current communication curriculum and to evaluate its contribution to meeting the needs of students and the demands of the workplace. However, within the communication discipline, current curricular decisions are based on studies conducted nearly a decade ago. This study (a)…

Communication Skills Training (CST) is a proven aid to help oncologists achieve high quality patient-centered communication. No research studies have provided clear guidelines for developing the content of CST. The aim of this work is to describe a method of developing such content and evaluation of effectiveness of CST training workshops (based…

This case study describes a 35-year communication consulting relationship with the Illinois Fire Chiefs' Association. This case explains the fire chiefs' educational problems, the five-step method for creating an educational curriculum for fire officers, and the five-step procedure for continuous evaluation of the curriculum. Finally, an…

Argues that communication skills are foundational to students' fundamental academic skills and critical to students' success in college and beyond. Considers the role of a communication curriculum in general education. Demonstrates how a systematic assessment plan was utilized to refine a curriculum and to provide evidence and fortify arguments…

Critiques the sexism institutionalized in basic speech communication courses and argues a gender balanced approach to curriculum revision. Presents examples drawn from a curriculum project as a case study in program revision to illustrate the application in a particular context and to suggest the impact of such a project for its participants. (KEH)

Reports results of a survey on what practicing communication specialists do as well as what they perceive to be important skills for future communication specialists. Respondents' job descriptions indicate two types of communication specialists: journalists and trainers. Implications for academic preparation for each are included. (JMF)

Discusses the results of interviews and questionnaires on the oral communication skills needed by research scientists. Proposes an oral communication course for science majors and generally summarizes its content. (JMF)

Surveyed broadcast managers to identify (1) entry-level skills and long-term characteristics for employment in radio announcing, news, and sales careers; and (2) hiring considerations. Concludes that skill-based broadcast education is essential but that candidates must also be aware of personal characteristics necessary for long-term employment.…