Speech Communication Analysis Enhanced by Video and Web

Cathy Edelstein
Lecturer
Communication Studies

In CS100 Fundamentals of Speech Communication, students learn the introductory skills of public speaking and persuasive discussion. These core elements are reinforced each time they access their course site, thanks to an interactive multimedia module developed by Communication Studies professor Cathy Edelstein and the Instructional Technology Group.

The web-based multimedia module blends text and audio from a variety of Emerson faculty narrators. This approach encourages student engagement while also exposing students to the unique cadences and delivery styles of accomplished public speakers. Multiple learning styles are also addressed via accompanying text that displays as the narration plays.

The structure of the Fundamentals of Speech Communication website mirrors the structure of the course. Students begin with a "Grab Bag" speech assignment -- a casual introductory speech -- then progress into more advanced areas, such as rhetorical analysis, pitch speeches, interviewing, persuasive speech, interactive speech and a culminating speech critique. Each section contains assignment information, documentation and, in some cases, sample multimedia clips.

Analysis and critique are important components of Fundamentals of Speech Communication. To meet these needs, Edelstein developed a process wherein student classroom speeches are recorded to DVD and uploaded onto Emerson's streaming media server. Students can access their videos through the course site, then analyze them for areas of improvement.

For information on integrating multimedia into your course, please contact the Instructional Technology Group at x8961.