Interpersonal Communication Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

SPCH-1318-004 Interpersonal Communication

Prerequisites

Course Description

Application of communication theory to interpersonal relationship development, maintenance and termination in relationship contexts including friendships, romantic partners, families and relationships with co-workers and supervisors.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

This course will use McGraw-Hill's Connect to access digital content from Floyd; Interpersonal Communication, 4e. Students will be required to utilize the online platform to complete their reading, homework, quizzes and tests. 

Students who do not utilize the McGraw-Hill Connect will not be successful in the course.

Students may purchase an access code for the digital content directly through the link in the course (at a cheaper price than the AC Bookstore). 

Supplies

Supplies and Skills

Supplies

• Reliable access to the Internet (all assignments for this course are completed/submitted online)
• Reliable computer or laptop (please do not attempt to complete this course using your cell phone!)

Skills

By attempting this course, you acknowledge that you have a basic understanding of the skills listed below, or that you are willing to learn them to be successful. If needed, you may visit The Underground or one of AC's tutoring centers for technology assistance.

• Knowledge of basic computer skills, including:
  • Navigation of Blackboard
  • How to write journals
  • How to submit an assignment
  • How to participate in a discussion board
  • How to participate in a group discussion/assignment
  • Navigation of Google Drive & associated apps
  • How to convert a Google Doc to .pdf
  • Creation of Google Slides
• Willingness to continue learning (Growth Mindset)

If you find you do not know how to do any of these skills, please reach out to me as quickly as possible so I can connect you with the correct tutoring center.

Student Performance

Grades and Expectations

Grades and Expectations

Your academic performance and success in this course are important to me. While the final grade is certainly a significant milestone, I encourage you to maintain a consistent focus on your learning and understanding throughout the entire 8-week term. Grades are not just determined in the final hours before the deadline; they are a cumulative reflection of your effort, engagement, and mastery of the course material over time.

I strongly advise against leaving all your work until the last minute or solely concentrating on your grade in the days leading up to the final deadline. This approach often leads to unnecessary stress, rushed work, and a less-than-optimal learning experience. Instead, I recommend staying on top of the coursework, actively participating in class discussions, and seeking guidance promptly when you encounter difficulties.

Throughout the term, I will provide regular feedback on your assignments and assessments, allowing you to identify areas for improvement and adjust your approach as needed. If you find yourself struggling or have concerns about your progress, please do not hesitate to reach out to me during office hours or schedule an appointment. I am here to support your learning journey and help you achieve your academic goals.

Please note that during the final week of the term, my ability to respond promptly to inquiries will be limited due to significant grading demands. In the past, I have received an overwhelming number of last-minute emails regarding grades, due dates, and requests for grade changes. While I understand the importance of these concerns, addressing them all in a timely manner becomes challenging during this period. To ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the grading process, I kindly request that you plan ahead and address any grade-related queries or concerns well before the final week.

Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to earn a grade, but to acquire knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate a lifelong passion for learning. By maintaining a consistent and proactive approach, you will not only enhance your chances of academic success but also gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Final Grade Requests

I understand the desire to achieve the highest letter grade possible, as it can have implications for your overall GPA and future opportunities. However, my policy is to avoid rounding up final grades solely based on requests. The grades you earn throughout the term should accurately reflect your mastery of the course content and the quality of work you have produced.

Instead of relying on potential grade rounding at the end, I strongly encourage you to take advantage of the extra credit opportunities provided during the term. These opportunities are designed to allow you to improve your understanding of the material and demonstrate your knowledge, potentially boosting your overall grade.

Additionally, I recommend consulting with me prior to submitting assignments or visiting one of the college's tutoring centers if you need assistance or have questions about the material. Getting clarification and support early on can help ensure that your work meets the expected standards and requirements. Be sure to engage with and review the rubrics provided for many assignments, as they outline the specific criteria for assessment and can guide you in achieving the desired level of performance.

By taking a proactive approach, seeking assistance when needed, referring to the rubrics, and making the most of the extra credit options, you can work towards earning the grade you desire through your own efforts and understanding, rather than relying on potential rounding up at the end.

My goal is to ensure that your final grade is a fair and accurate representation of your comprehension and mastery of the course material. I believe this approach not only maintains academic integrity but also better prepares you for future endeavors where you will be evaluated based on the quality of your work and your ability to meet established standards.

Oops Tokens: Your Lifeline for Late Assignments!

In the fantastical realm of online learning, sometimes life's mischievous gremlins can trip us up, causing an assignment to be fashionably late to the party. Fear not, my intrepid communicators! I come bearing a magical solution: the "Oops Token"!

Imagine this token as your personal genie, granting you the power to turn back time (well, sort of). Each of you will be given one of these enchanted tokens at the beginning of our journey together. Here's how they work:

1. Late Assignment Rescue: If an assignment slips through your fingers and misses the due date, you can use one of your Oops Tokens to extend the deadline by 48 hours, no questions asked.
2. Token Activation: To use your Oops Token, send me a message through Blackboard Ultra, stating which assignment youre redeeming it for. Poof! Your request will be granted.
3. Limitations of Magic: Tokens are one-time use. They cannot be used for multiple assignments on the same day, group projects, or assignments due in the final week.
4. Responsibility and Planning: Think of them as emergency glass slippers, not everyday shoes. Use them wisely.
5. Communication is Key: If youve already used your token but need help, reach out early. Extensions are still available for assignments before the due date.

Remember, this token is not a free pass to procrastinate but a recognition that life can be unpredictable. In this class, we celebrate progress over perfection and support one anothers success.

Course Description

Application of communication theory to interpersonal relationship development, maintenance, and termination in relationship contexts including friendships, romantic partners, families, and relationships with co-workers and supervisors.

After studying the material presented in this course, you will be able to do the following as evaluated by faculty in the department/program:

Learning Objective	THECB Skill	Assessment(s)
Exhibit understanding of interpersonal theories and principles.	Communication (written) / Critical Thinking	In-class discussions, course text/assignments, and exam questions
Analyze and critique verbal and nonverbal interactions in mediated and face-to-face contexts.	Critical Thinking / Communication (written)	Group activities and papers
Identify perceptual processes as they relate to self and others.	Communication (written) / Critical Thinking	Papers and projects
Research, evaluate, and apply communication theories in oral and/or written assignments.	Communication (written/verbal)	Papers and in-class discussions
Understand cross-cultural, co-cultural, gender, and age influences on communication.	Communication (verbal)	In-class discussions, course readings, group activity
Identify and apply conflict styles and conflict management techniques in dyads and groups.	Team Work	Group work assignments
Identify types of and barriers to effective listening.	Communication (written/visual) / Critical Thinking	Papers and class discussions

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Welcome to the Ship

Ahoy, buccaneers of communication! Buckle your swashbuckling belts, because we're setting sail on an 8-week treasure hunt for interpersonal gold " and it'll be over before you can say "Yo ho, yo ho, a communicator's life for me!"

Sure, some may shiver at the thought of condensed terms and juggling commitments, but fear not! Before you dive headfirst into a "too much work!" kraken of despair, let's chart a course that's both booty-licious and balanced.

This in-class adventure packs a punch! There's a lot to do, but I am here to support your success. Each Thursday of our 8-week term is reserved for time spent with the eBook. I will be available in my office without an appointment on these days. So please, lets get this stuff done!

Think of it as a treasure map leading to hidden gems of knowledge. To unearth these riches, you'll spend time each week on:

• Digging into assigned readings and resources: Your spyglasses and compasses to navigate communication.
• Practicing what we explore: Sword-fighting practice before facing the open sea (assignments and projects).
• Tackling assignments and projects: Trusty shovels and nets to refine your knowledge.

This journey is not set in stone like Davy Jones locker. Some weeks may be stormy, others calm as a mermaids lagoon. The key is to be strategic, seek help, and never hunt treasure alone.

Resources for Your Voyage

• Me (your guide on deck)
• Amarillo College Tutoring Centers
• Online Tutoring
• The Underground (tech support + more)

Be proactive, not reactive. Im here every step with office hours, online resources, and friendly check-ins. And dont forget self-care " learning is a marathon. Pace yourself, and youll conquer this ocean of knowledge with ease.

How to Engage

• Call me Courtney: Professor sounds too stuffy for this crew.
• Engagement is pixie dust: Ask questions, share thoughts, join discussions " even without all the answers.
• Brain over brute force: AI is a tool, but your unique voice is the real treasure.
• Life happens: Reach out if you hit a snag " Ill connect you with support.
• Kindness is our compass: Respect each other like Belle and the Beast. Kindness builds bridges.
• Neurodiversity is our rainbow: Celebrate the different ways we learn and think.
• Present like Poppins, focus like Mulan: Limit distractions and give full attention.
• Your roadmap: The syllabus is your Genie " granting wishes for clarity and success.

Communication Channels: Lets Stay Connected!

Preferred: Blackboard Ultra Messaging " like sending a message in a bottle, directly tied to your coursework.

Alternatives: Watermark (checked occasionally) or Email (include your full name, course, and section number).

Tone Matters

Your tone is a powerful spell " it can charm or cause mischief. Keep our space respectful and safe. Grammarly is available as a tone-check companion. In person, be mindful: tone sets the mood of every interaction.

Respectful Communication Policy

1. First occurrence: Coaching session with me to reset expectations.
2. Second occurrence: Formal written warning.
3. Third occurrence: Referral to Campus Behavior Team for disciplinary review.

Section Numbers

Think of your section number as a magic password that unlocks my ability to help you. Always include it in your messages " it makes the communication magic flow faster!

Accessibility & Sharing

Your participation is the pixie dust that makes this course sparkle, so lets ensure everyone can join in the enchantment. When you share links, make sure theyre accessible by the due date. Non-working links = zero. Sharing access means your classmates and I can review your work during our journey together.

Grading Criteria

Unlocking the Secrets of Communication: Your Quest Guide

Ready to embark on an adventure through the realms of communication?

Course Requirements: Your Magical Toolkit

• In-class Assignments (5%): Must be present in class to earn these grades. Active participation and engagement are key!
• Essay (10%): "The Way We See Me" " discover your unique voice and explore how others perceive you in this self-awareness journey.
• Assignments (40%): Weekly assignments to sharpen your communication skills. Submit by 11:59 PM on their due dates!
• Chapter Tests (30%): Periodic tests covering assigned chapters and concepts. Think of these as checkpoints along the adventure.
• Final Exam (15%): The cumulative finale, pulling together everything youve learned. Due the last Thursday of the term by noon.

Final Exam Due Date

The final exam for this course will be due on the last Thursday of the term by 12:00 PM noon. This unconventional deadline allows me time to grade exams and submit course grades by the college's Friday deadline. No late exams or extensions can be granted for the final exam.

Please mark this important date now:
Final Exam Due " Last Thursday, October 15, 2025, by 12:00 PM noon

Assignment Submissions: Follow the Pixie Dust

• Acceptable File Types: Submit only approved formats (see "Additional Information").
• Dropbox Delivery: All assignments must be submitted through the designated dropbox. No emails, Google Drive links, or Pages files.
• Participation: Join class discussions and bring the material to life " your voice matters!

Readings: Unleash the Magic of Knowledge

• Weekly Chapters: Explore new topics from the textbook each week.
• Read Before Assignments: Treat the readings as your map to success " consult them before starting your work.

Major Assignments: Dream Big, Write Bold

• "The Way We See Me" essay " a self-reflection assignment designed to showcase your unique voice.
• Final Exam " the grand finale testing everything youve learned.

Late Work: Finding Your Way Back to the Path

• Week 1 Grace Period: New to the kingdom? If you stumble in the first week, well chat in Week Two to find a solution.
• After Week 1: No late work will be accepted. Always reach out proactively so we can problem-solve together.

Pathways to Success: A Little Help from Your Friends

• Face challenges together " reach out for support if life throws you off course.
• Flexibility with fairness " Ill work with you to navigate obstacles while ensuring fairness for everyone.

Earning Your Grade: Your Happily Ever After

No grade recovery at the end of term " your grade reflects your true mastery throughout the course.

• A: 90"100
• B: 80"89.9
• C: 70"79.9
• D: 60"69.9
• F: 59.9 and below

Withdrawals

Its your responsibility to request a withdrawal if needed. Please schedule an appointment with me (see the booking link at the start of this syllabus) so we can talk before you decide.

Attendance

Engaging in the Journey: Attendance and Participation

Ahoy, adventurers! Buckle up for a magical voyage through communication land, where your active participation and attendance are the fuel that keeps the pixie dust flying!

I know this is an in-person course, so absences might be a thing. With that said, think of this course as a thrilling quest through Aladdin's lamp, with each lesson a hidden treasure waiting to be unearthed. Your presence and contributions are the enchanted jewels that fill our treasure chest and make the journey truly magnificent!

But hey, even Mickey Mouse gets knocked out by Merlin's magic tricks sometimes. Life can throw unexpected curveballs, from Ursula's evil schemes to a nasty case of the Beast's sniffles. Don't fret, brave heroes! If anything hinders your ability to join the full-fledged fun, don't hesitate to send me a trusty carrier pigeon (aka email) ASAP! We'll work together to find solutions and keep your adventure rolling.

Excused Absences: Your Golden Ticket to Academic Triumph!

• Campus-Sponsored Activities: Representing Cinderella's Ballroom Dancers at the Inter-Kingdom Tournament? An email from your coach or sponsor is your golden ticket to an excused absence. If it's a blanket announcement ("All-AC" style), a quick heads-up helps me track your heroic feats.
• Short-Term Squalls: Out for a day or two? A quick chim chim cher-ee via email will do. No doctor's note needed " just rest, recover, and get shipshape again.
• Extended Gales: Out for longer than a week? A doctors note is required. Think of it as your compass, helping us chart a course to keep you on track.

Whether it's a spot of soot-induced laryngitis or a bout of Jolly Holiday hiccups, a simple email for short absences and a doctors note for longer storms will do the trick. Just like a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, a dash of communication makes navigating these unexpected detours a breeze!

The Magical Power of Excused Absences

• Peace of Mind: Focus on recovery like Simba reclaiming his kingdom " no stress about falling behind.
• Catching Up: Excused absences allow for negotiating deadlines, keeping you from falling into academic chasms. Think Aladdin rewinding the magic carpet!
• Support and Understanding: From Maleficents green flu to a Quidditch tournament, excused absences acknowledge lifes detours and let us collaborate on solutions.
• Maintaining Good Standing: Excused absences help you stay on track for academic glory and avoid Gaston-sized setbacks.

Remember: Communication is key! The sooner you let me know about an unavoidable absence, the sooner we can work together like Simba and Timon Hakuna Matata-ing through obstacles. This journey is more fun when we face it together, even when life throws a few Cruella de Vil curveballs our way!

So, adventurers, lets set sail with your active participation and attendance as the sails propelling us forward! Together, well uncover hidden treasures of knowledge, navigate whirlpools, and emerge victorious, ready to conquer any communication challenge like true Disney heroes!

Calendar

Additional Information

As We Embark on This Journey: Communication & Submission

Your email is great for quick questions, but for assignments:

• No file-sharing magic tricks: Submit your work directly via Blackboard. Links like Google Drive or OneDrive lead to automatic zeroes.
• Documents, not detours: Use proper files " .docx, .pdf, or .jpg only. Email submissions will not be graded.

Im here to help " reach out if your submission journey hits a snag.

Accepted File Types

• .docx (e.g., The Way We See Me)
• .pdf (e.g., The Way We See Me)
• .jpg (e.g., worksheets)

Need help converting from Google Docs or Slides? Here's your quick guide:

Navigating the Information Oasis: Citing Sources & AI Tools

In this course, were building an academic compass. Heres how to cite:

Textbook Citations (APA)

Interpersonal Communication by Floyd (2021).

• In-text: (Floyd, 2021)
• Reference: Floyd, K. (2021). Interpersonal communication (4th ed.). McGraw Hill. https://connect.mheducation.com/
• When e-books lack page numbers, cite chapter and paragraph or heading.

Using AI Tools Responsibly

• AI is a helper, not a source: Always check and cite credible references.
• Be transparent: Mention any AI use in your work.
• APA tips:
  • Personal communication: (Bard, personal communication, October 26, 2023)
  • Algorithm output: (Bard, Algorithms output, *Title*, October 26, 2023)
  • Software citation: Google AI. (Year). *Bard: A large language model for research and dialogue*. Retrieved from URL

Think of AI as your learning buddy " your own critical thinking and analysis are what really shine.

Rsum Language SPCH 1318 Interpersonal Communication

Use the set that matches your final course grade.

A (90"100%)

• Demonstrated advanced knowledge of interpersonal communication theories and models; applied them across diverse contexts.
• Analyzed and adapted verbal and nonverbal messages for clarity, ethics, and audience needs in face-to-face and mediated settings.
• Employed advanced active listening, feedback, and critical-thinking strategies to improve outcomes in dyads and groups.
• Led and facilitated collaborative work; resolved conflict constructively and fostered inclusive team dynamics.
• Researched and delivered organized, audience-centered messages that integrated cultural, gender, and age perspectives.
• Leveraged technology (productivity, presentation, and online platforms) to research, organize, and present communication effectively.

B (80"89.9%)

• Demonstrated proficient knowledge of interpersonal communication principles and effective application in common contexts.
• Interpreted and adapted verbal/nonverbal messages with accuracy and audience awareness in in-person and mediated interactions.
• Applied active listening and constructive feedback to strengthen dyadic and group communication.
• Delivered structured, ethical messages showing awareness of cultural and individual differences.
• Contributed effectively to team tasks; supported conflict resolution and shared goals.
• Used technology competently to research, organize, and present course-related communication.

C (70"79.9%)

• Demonstrated foundational knowledge of interpersonal communication concepts and basic application in routine contexts.
• Identified and adjusted verbal/nonverbal messages for audience understanding.
• Practiced active listening and provided constructive feedback in discussions and projects.
• Prepared and delivered informative or persuasive messages with basic audience awareness.
• Participated in teams and used basic strategies for managing conflict.
• Used standard tools (Word, slides, LMS/online platforms) to complete communication tasks.

Tip: On your rsum, label these as Advanced / Proficient / Familiar with to match the grade level.