Course Outline for Communication Studies 70A
Introduction to Communication Tutor Training

Effective: Fall 2025
SLO Rev:

Catalog Description:

COMM 70A - Introduction to Communication Tutor Training

2.00 Units

An introduction to tutor training for the Communication Laboratory. Through lecture and hands-on tutoring experience students will demonstrate lab procedure, tutor strategies, and knowledge of basic components of public speaking.
Prerequisite: COMM C1000 (Formerly COMM 1) or COMM 2 or COMM 10 or COMM 20 or COMM 46 or COMM 50 and instructor recommendation required.
CB03: TOP Code 1506.00 - Speech Communication
CIP Code 09.0101 - Speech Communication and Rhetoric.
Course Grading: Optional
Type Units Inside of Class Hours Outside of Class Hours Total Student Learning Hours
Lecture 1.00 18.00 36.00 54.00
Laboratory 1.00 54.00 0.00 54.00
Total 2.00 72.00 36.00 108.00

Measurable Objectives:

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. demonstrate increased interpersonal communication skills to establish rapport with tutees;
  2. assess the needs of tutees;
  3. apply public speaking fundamentals;
  4. present a variety of tools for presentation preparation using clear messages and supportive nonverbal communication;
  5. evaluate the performance of others critically and thoughtfully.

Course Content:


Course Content (Lecture):
  1. Role of tutor as guide rather than teacher.
  2. Lab procedure and paperwork.
    1. Tutor reports
    2. Use of technology
    3. Maintaining spaces designated for Lab use
    4. TutorTrac and/or timecards
  3. Creating a supportive learning environment. 
    1. Adapting to various learning styles through communication choices and resources provided.
    2. Creating and maintaining supportive environements through confirming messages.
    3. Effective listening and response.
    4. Conflict management skills.
  4. Review of communication theory and strategy.
    1. Topic selection
    2. Organization and outlining
    3. Language choice
    4. Nonverbal communication
    5. Informative strategies
    6. Persuasive strategies
    7. Ceremonial speaking
    8. Preparation and use of visual aides
    9. Communicating confidence
    10. Ethical choices
    11. Research strategies

Course Content (Comm Lab tutoring):
  1. Guide in the review and application of communication theory and strategy.
    1. Topic selection
    2. Organization and outlining
    3. Language choice
    4. Nonverbal communication
    5. Informative strategies
    6. Persuasive strategies
    7. Ceremonial speaking
    8. Preparation and use of visual aides
    9. Communicating confidence
    10. Ethical choices
    11. Research strategies
    12. Effective listening and critique

Methods of Instruction:

  1. Lecture/Discussion
  2. Group Activities
  3. Laboratory
  4. Demonstration/Exercise
  5. Supervised Tutoring
  6. Distance Education

Assignments and Methods of Evaluating Student Progress:

1. Typical Assignments
  1. Role-play a tutoring interaction. Show how you greet each student sending confirming messages and how you would assess their needs.
  2. Review and evaluate the current handouts in use in the Communication Lab. Topics covering outlining, delivery tips, etc. Be prepared to answer questions on these topics including meaning and usefulness.
  3. Read the following article (e.g. Learning styles, Top Public Speakers in Business, or Effective Study Skills) and be prepared to discuss.
  4. Observe other tutors/ tutoring contexts (use of space, resources, etc). Write an essay covering what you have learned from your observation.
  5. Write a 1-3 page essay answering the following questions: What have you learned about your students’ needs? List tips for effective conflict resolution with your students. In particular, what have you learned about how to motivate students? What have students taught you about public speaking and/or teaching?
2. Methods of Evaluating Student Progress
  1. Class Participation
  2. Lab Activities
  3. Oral Presentation
  4. Attendance
  5. Written self-evaluation
  6. Final Performance
3. Student Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, the student should be able to:
  1. listen to, evaluate and respond appropriately to the ideas of others;
  2. recognize, define and apply the principles of practical communication and communication theory.

Textbooks (Typical):

  1. Ellis, D., B. (2017). Becoming a Master Student ( ). Cengage.
  2. Beebe, S. (2018). Public Speaking Handbook Pearson.
Additional Materials:
  • None

Abbreviated Class Schedule Description:

Introduction to tutor training for the Communication Laboratory. Includes lecture and hands-on tutoring experience. Required: Successful completion of COMM course and instructor recommendation.
Prerequisite: COMM C1000 (Formerly COMM 1) or COMM 2 or COMM 10 or COMM 20 or COMM 46 or COMM 50 and instructor recommendation required.

Discipline:
Speech Communication*