Examines advantages, disadvantages, and preliminary assessments of the training model and the consulting/training (CONTRA) model approaches to providing oral communication instruction in Oral Communication across the Curriculum programs. Recommends the CONTRA model. (SR)

The seven articles in this journal issue focus on the relationship between theory and practice in human communication. Topics discussed in the articles are (1) a speech theory of human communication, (2) first principles for an "act" based theory of communication, (3) the uses of a theory of communication, (4) communication pragmatism,…

Indicates that situational factors such as perceived novelty, subordinate status, conspicuousness, dissimilarity and prior history correlate significantly with public speaking anxiety. Presents a causal model based on a confluence of previous research and the results of the present study. Includes classroom implications.(NH)

A review of the role of theory and research in the teaching of public speaking reveals that although speech models have been an important pedagogical tool since the beginning of systematic instruction in public speaking, research investigating the value of model speeches is limited. A 1966 survey of 861 instructors in public speaking indicated…

A study examined the power of communication apprehension, person perception, network connectedness, and course satisfaction to predict learning outcomes in a college communication course. Subjects, 81 students from a multisection course, completed a variety of self-report instruments measuring their communication apprehension levels; perceptions…

Reports the results of stage two of a three-stage project designed to develop, through field testing, a model for determining the norms of general adult communication behavior. Discusses implications of this study, including those for planners of communication instruction. (PD)

A study was conducted to test the belief that students would develop a better attitude toward communication models if they were depicted using computer-generated graphics than they would if traditional chalkboard depiction were used. Two hypotheses were tested: (1) that the mean attitude-towards-models score for students exposed to models via…

Through a review of literature, this paper focuses on the development of a framework for the teaching of functional communication skills in grades six through nine. Following the introduction, the first section examines the context, purpose, and ability dimensions of oral communication as well as a model that combines all of these elements. The…

A survey of 80 department chairpersons, directors of forensics, and debate coaches indicated an increased use of nontraditional, audience-centered debate paradigms since the National Developmental Conference on Forensics issued its report advancing alternative debate options during the 1970s. Report recommendations on expanding the role of…

Findings suggest that the Personalized System of Instruction in the introductory speech communication course tends to equal or be more effective than the lecture-recitation format in (1) attitudes toward and satisfaction with the course; (2) academic achievement; (3) alleviating communication apprehension; and (4) growth in communication skills.…