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-1318-001 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

Online 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). 

Important Note: The eBook for this course requires proctoring software called Proctorio that must be installed on your browser. There are more details about this in Week 1 of the course.

If you are using a computer with restrictions that prevent installing add-ons—such as a Chromebook from your high school days—you may encounter difficulties accessing the homework. If this situation applies to you, I strongly encourage you to reach out to the IT team or the person responsible for managing your device's settings to discuss possible solutions. It is essential to ensure you have the necessary access to complete your coursework successfully. Please don't hesitate to ask for assistance early on to avoid any disruptions to your learning experience.

Proctorio will not work on tablets (iPad/Surface Pro) or mobile device.

Supplies

Supplies

• Reliable access to the Internet (all assignments for this course are completed/submitted online)
• Reliable computer/laptop (NOTE: Please do not attempt to complete this course using your cell phone!)
  • It is your responsibility to have access to a reliable computer/laptop.
  • AC's Underground is on the Washington Street Campus in the Ware Student Commons. It is a large computer lab with study rooms. Click here to learn more and see the current hours.

Skills*

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

• knowledge of basic computer skills including, but not limited to
  • 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 Google Doc to .pdf
    • creation of Google Slides
  • willingness to continue learning (aka: 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 get you in contact with the correct tutoring center.

If you're on any Amarillo College campus, you may access the college's free WiFi.

WIFI PASSWORD: AmarilloCollege

Student Performance

Class Structure

This course explores interpersonal communication and how communication shapes relationships, identity, conflict, and connection. Some topics may feel personally meaningful or challenging at times, and I encourage you to engage thoughtfully with the material both personally and professionally.

• Each assignment must be received by the due date posted in the course.
• Students must purchase access to the text.
  • Don't try to get all McGraw-Hill assignments done using the 14-day free access code
  • If you do not purchase the code, you cannot complete the final exam in Week Six.

Grades & Expectations

Your grade reflects your effort, engagement, preparation, and understanding throughout the course — not just at the end of the semester.

Because this is a condensed 6-week course:

• Staying current with coursework is critical.
• Waiting until the last minute often creates unnecessary stress and lower-quality work.
• Communication and planning matter.

I strongly encourage you to:

• Review feedback regularly
• Ask questions early
• Attend office hours or schedule meetings when needed
• Use tutoring and support resources proactively

Please note that response times may be slower during the final week due to grading responsibilities. Questions about grades, missing work, or assignment concerns should be addressed well before final deadlines whenever possible.

Final Grade Requests

Final grades are based on the points earned throughout the semester. Grades are not rounded simply upon request.

If you want to improve your grade:

• Complete assignments carefully and on time
• Use available extra credit opportunities
• Review assignment rubrics before submitting work
• Seek clarification or tutoring support early

My goal is for final grades to accurately reflect your understanding and performance in the course.

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.

Students 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

Analytical Writing & Academic Integrity Expectations

This course evaluates authentic human analysis, reflection, and communication competence. Writing that relies on generalized, formulaic, artificially generated, fabricated, or intellectually shallow content will not earn high marks regardless of grammatical polish.

Strong submissions demonstrate:

• specificity,
• intellectual risk-taking,
• meaningful self-reflection,
• accurate application of course concepts,
• and sustained analytical depth.

Papers that rely heavily on vague synthesis, emotionally detached reflection, repetitive structure, fabricated citations, unsupported generalizations, or writing inconsistent with authentic student authorship may receive substantially reduced scores or be referred for academic integrity review.

Students should be prepared to discuss, explain, and defend the ideas, terminology, examples, and citations included in their submissions.

Setting Expectations

Over the next 6 weeks, we’ll work together to strengthen your interpersonal communication skills. This course moves quickly, but I’ll be here to help guide you along the way.

What to Expect Each Week

• Assigned readings
• Practice activities
• Assignments and projects

Plan to spend about 12–18 hours per week on coursework since we are covering a full semester in only 6 weeks.

Tips for Success

• Stay organized and work ahead when possible.
• Ask for help early if you need it.
• Focus on steady progress, not perfection.

Need Help?

Support is available through:

• Meetings with me
• Amarillo College Tutoring Centers
• Online tutoring
• The Underground (Student Support)
• Communication & Participation

This course is about growth and learning together. Here’s what I expect:

• Be respectful and kind to others.
• Participate and share your ideas.
• Communicate early if problems come up.
• Stay engaged and use the syllabus as a guide.
• Think critically—your voice matters more than AI tools.

You can, and should, call me Courtney.

Best Ways to Contact Me

I aim to respond to messages within 24–48 business hours, and I usually reply much sooner. Please give me time to read and thoughtfully respond to your message before sending follow-ups.

Before reaching out, please:

• Review the syllabus
• Read the weekly course content and announcements
• Check assignment instructions carefully
• Avoid relying only on the grade book to determine what is due

Many questions can be answered by reviewing the course materials first.

If you are facing McGraw-Hill technical issues, please do not wait on me. Please reach out to McGraw-Hill Technical Support. Once you have done this, please ask them for a case number. Once you have the case number, then send me a message and include the case number.

Please also plan ahead when possible. Last-minute emergencies, missed deadlines, or technical issues do not automatically create an immediate response expectation. I will always do my best to support you, but advance communication and preparation are important parts of success in an online course.

Please communicate professionally and respectfully in all course interactions. Tone matters in written communication, especially in online courses where messages can easily be misunderstood. Questions, concerns, and disagreements should be expressed with courtesy and professionalism. I am always happy to help and clarify when needed, but disrespectful, demanding, or confrontational communication is not appropriate and may delay resolution. Assume positive intent, seek clarification when needed, and approach communication as part of building a productive learning environment.

When sending messages, please include enough information for me to help you effectively. Messages such as “I don’t understand,” “I need help,” or “What do I do?” without context make it difficult to provide meaningful support. Include the course name, assignment title, specific question, what you have already reviewed or attempted, and any relevant screenshots or details. Clear communication helps me respond more efficiently and helps you get answers faster.

When emailing, include the following:

• Your full name
• Course name
• Section number
• Respectful Communication (give details about assignment, issues, etc.)

We all come from different backgrounds and experiences. Everyone is expected to communicate professionally and respectfully.

"Clear is kind. Unclear is unkind." ~ Dr. Brené Brown

If you disagree with something:

• Ask questions politely.
• Seek clarification before escalating concerns.
• Respect course policies and decisions.

Technology & Support

Students are responsible for accessing course technology and using support services if issues arise. (See above for McGraw-Hill Technical Support information.)

Resources include:

• Help Desk
• Tutoring Centers
• Online Learning Guides
• Student Services Support

Assignment Submissions

Accepted file types:

• PDF (.pdf)
• Word (.docx)
• Pages (.pages)

Not accepted:

• Google Docs links
• OneDrive links
• Other cloud-sharing links

Assignments submitted as links will receive a zero.

Final Thoughts about Student Expected Behavior

We’re in this together! Clear communication, respect, and consistent effort will help you succeed. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out early—I’m here to help. But I don't know what you don't communicate. We practice what we teach in this course.

Grading Criteria

Course Requirements

Assignments (50%)

Complete weekly assignments by the posted due date and time.

Weekly Exams (35%)

Each week includes an exam covering that week’s material. Exams should reflect your understanding of the readings, lectures, and course content.

Essay (10%)

“The Way We See Me”
This paper focuses on self-awareness, identity, and how others perceive us through communication.

Final Exam (5%)

The final exam is cumulative and covers material from the entire course.

Important Final Exam Deadline:
The final exam is due on the last Wednesday of the term by 12:00 PM (noon). This deadline allows time for grading and final grade submission to the college.

Final Exam Due: Wednsday, July 1, 2026, by 12:00 PM noon

Because of college grading deadlines:

• Late final exams cannot be accepted.

• Extensions are not available for the final exam.

• Please plan ahead and save this date now.

All assignments should be submitted through the designated Blackboard dropbox.

If you have questions about submissions, please ask before the deadline.

Readings & Course Content

Course readings and materials are designed to prepare you for assignments, discussions, and exams. Review all weekly materials carefully before completing coursework.

Do not rely only on the grade book to determine what is due. Weekly modules, announcements, and assignment instructions contain important information needed for success in the course.

Late Work Policy

This course does not accept late work.

Week 1 Grace Period

The first week of a condensed course can be an adjustment period. If issues arise during Week 1, communicate with me early. All Week 1 assignment issues must be addressed through Blackboard Messages by Tuesday of Week 2. After this deadline, I will not offer assistance with any Week 1 missed assignments.

After Week 1

Late work is not accepted. Please plan ahead and communicate proactively if challenges arise.

Oops Token

Each student in the course gets 1 Oops token. This token can be used for 1 assignment in the course (see exemptions below) under the following conditions:

• The assignment is in Week 2, 3, or 4
• The request for the 1 Oops token is made during the following week
  • Example: to use your Oops token on a missed assignment in Week 2 you should make the request before the end of Week 3

Extensions

Each student has an generous amount of grace for getting assignments completed after the due date if they communicate their additional time requests to me BEFORE THE ASSIGNMENT DUE DATE. In this course, I believe we can ask for what we need. That includes extra time.

Here is how to make that request:

1. All assignment extension requests must be made through Blackboard PRIOR to the assignment due date and time.
   • Please don't put this off. I'd rather you get to sleep, do the other assignment, or just take a moment for yourself.
2. In your Blackboard message, BE SPECIFIC about what assignment(s) you would like extended.
   • It is not enough to write, "I'd like all today's assignment's extended." You have some skin in this game, too.
   • Give me specific assignment names. If it's helpful, you can look at the grade book and copy/paste them into your message.
3. Also in your message, BE SPECIFIC about what you would like to see as the new due date.
   • If you need more than a day, ask for it!
   • If you need a week, ask for it!
   • I cannot always give you what you ask for, but at least I know where you are, and I can react to what you need.
4. If your message is curt or disrespectful:
   • In short, don't be curt or disrespectful. I'm here to help, but I ask that you treat me like a human.
   • If for some reason a first message seems off or out of the ordinary, I will ask for clarification and make suggestions about future communication attempts.
   • Messages beyond the first one that continue to be disrespectful will be handled as such and no extensions will be granted.
   • Just speak to me as you would any other human. I promise, I'm on the other end waiting to engage with you, not make your life harder.

The following assignments are not eligible for Oops token use or extension requests:

• "The Way We See Me" Essay (Blackboard)
• Chapter Review over ALL Chapters
• Final Exam

Support & Communication

If you experience challenges during the semester, reach out early. I want to help support your success while also maintaining fairness and consistency for the entire class.

College resources available to support you include:

• Tutoring services

• Student support services

• Technology support

• Online learning resources

Grading Scale

Withdrawals

Students are responsible for initiating withdrawal requests. If you are considering withdrawing from the course, please schedule a meeting with me to discuss the process and available options.

Attendance

Active participation is expected.

Since this is an online course we don't have formal attendance. Your attendance is your weekly participation.

Assignment due dates are spread throughout the week. Do not expect to have all assignments submitted on Sunday evenings.

Calendar

Additional Information

Citing the Textbook: Interpersonal Communication by Floyd

Alright adventurers, here's how to cite the textbook for this course, according to APA style:

Basic In-Text Citation:

• Use the authors' last names and publication year, when mentioning the textbook in your writing. For example:

Floyd (2021) emphasizes the importance of active listening in healthy relationships.

Full Reference List Citation:

• Include the following information in your references list:

Floyd, K. (2021). Interpersonal communication (4th ed.). McGraw Hill. https://connect.mheducation.com/

Additional Notes:

• If you're referencing a specific chapter, article, or section within the textbook, you can add more detail to your citation. For example:

If the e-book does not have page numbers, you should use the chapter number and, if available, the section heading and/or paragraph number in your parenthetical citation.

For instance, if you are citing information from Chapter 3, under the section heading "Types of Nonverbal Communication," and it's the fourth paragraph in that section, your parenthetical citation would look like this:

(Floyd, 2021, Chapter 3, "Types of Nonverbal Communication," para. 4)

If there are no section headings, you can just use the chapter number and paragraph number:

(Floyd, 2021, Chapter 3, para. 4)

In the case where you are summarizing key ideas from a whole chapter, you would simply use the chapter number in your parenthetical citation:

(Floyd, 2021, Chapter 3)

Remember, the goal is to provide enough information for your reader to locate the specific part of the text you are referring to, even without page numbers. Consistency and accuracy are key when citing sources. If you're unsure about how to cite something, don't hesitate to ask! We're all on this academic adventure together, and helping each other navigate the citation jungle is part of the journey. Feel free to ask me, or the AC Campus Librarians.