One course in persuasion reviews six theories of attitude change--five based on Otto Lerbinger's designs for persuasive communication (cognitive design, stimulus response design, motivational design, personality design, and social design), and a sixth (perceptual design) developed by the instructors. Instruction in each includes a variety of…

Describes a speech assignment in which students describe a geometric figure well enough so that listeners can then draw the figure. Exercise is based on philosophy of teaching and learning in W. Timothy Gallwey's "The Inner Game of Tennis." (PD)

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)

James E. Murdoch's contributions to the arts were widely diversified. Aside from acting, the man was interested in both the practical and theoretical aspects of elocution. The thread of continuity which existed between elocution and interpretation became apparent to Murdoch through his analysis of the works of Sheridan, Walker, and Rush, the…

Describes the conceptual patterns approach to rhetorical invention, a way to help students become aware of and activate their thought patterns in composing speeches. (PD)

Describes the use of undergraduate teaching assistants in a basic communication course in order to provide a workable method for large numbers of entering students to learn about communication in small laboratory settings. (PD)

Argues that video can provide effective feedback in performance courses (in speech communication) by creating opportunities for students to take the role of observer, identify and emphasize specific skills, receive feedback simultaneously with performance, and make comparisons. (SR)

Describes a device, the speaker resume, which provides students with biographical information on an orator's education, achievements, historical impact, rhetorical skills, and personal data. Includes a sample resume of Daniel O'Connell, Irish orator. Useful to teachers and students for class discussion and further investigation. (PD)

Woolbert is a seminal figure in the development of the contemporary speech field as a strong and independent discipline. This article examines his role as a transitional figure between the elocutionists and contemporary theorists. (PD)

Motivating students is one of the primary challenges facing public speaking instructors. Numerous techniques can be used to generate a stronger desire among students to excel in their presentations. For example, instructors can increase motivation through a rather simple process of manipulating the speaker order to create an environment in which…

A college communication professor discusses methods which will help learning disabled (LD) as well as non-LD students. General techniques advocated include presenting information in a variety of ways, allowing opportunities for questions and clarification, using an organized presentation of information, and being flexible in assignments and…

Speech communication teachers can assist students in gaining more facility with language by helping them become active learners or problem solvers through: (1) experiencing an event; (2) reflecting on this experience which leads to (3) the formation of abstract concepts and generalizations about what has been learned; and finally (4) incorporating…

This annotated bibliography contains 31 references of articles and papers in the ERIC database that deal with communication apprehension (CA). The first section provides strategies for instructors and students to alleviate communication apprehension, speech anxiety, stage fright, and other problems people have with public speaking. The second…

While audience analysis is an important concept to be taught in any beginning speech class, seldom are students urged to view their classmates as an authentic audience and to consider their needs and interests in speech planning. The Dyadic Interview Activity is one that can help students apply the principles of audience analysis in planning their…

This report is the result of a six-week study in which the voice training offerings at four schools of drama in London were examined using interviews of teachers and directors, observation of voice classes, and attendance at studio presentations and public performances. The report covers such topics as: textbooks and references being used; courses…