California State University, Sacramento COMS/JOUR 123 - Course Overview Spring 1999  This course is the study of the organization and operation of communication media; practice in publicity and public relations techniques. Emphasis is placed on clear writing and correct public relations formats such as releases, PSAs, articles and media kits. Cross-listed as Journalism 123. Only one of these courses may be counted for credit. Computer familiarity (MAC-OS) recommended. 3 units   Benefits on Online Learning Flexible Scheduling: Students generally work full-time, many have family responsibilities, and many live a distance from campus. Being able to complete selected course units from home or work without attending weekly classes should be a major convenience. Enhanced Learning: Time saved traveling to and from campus (and looking for parking) can be redirected to learning! Adult Learners: As highly motivated learners, students can actively pursue areas of greatest interest rather than sit through lectures aimed at the whole group. Increased Interaction with Classmates: Web-based communication tools can actually increase interaction among students by permitting group work that would be difficult to arrange if students had to meet in the same place at the same time. Virtual Office Hours: Electronic communication between students and the instructor can actually increase the degree of our interaction, since you can e-mail me at your convenience, rather than find time to get to my office or reach me by phone. The Web's the Limit (not the instructor): The World Wide Web has a wealth of resources from which you can learn a great deal more than I can teach you. Everywhere, the role of the faculty is being reconceptualized as that of "coach" rather than "instructor". Students are perfectly suited to take advantage of coaching to get out of the course what will be of most value to them. Electronic Competency on the Job: The competence in dealing with electronic environments that you develop in this course will be of great value to you in your workplace.   Technology Requirements Students will need an electronic mail account and computer access to the Web. All CSUS students enrolled in one or more units can create a SacLink account for electronic mail and Internet services. Although a home computer with a high speed modem running Netscape or Internet Explorer would be beneficial, students can use the Web from one of the campus student labs. Computing Recommendations  Comfortable using the computer and browsing the Web Windows compatible 486 running Windows 3.1, Windows NT, or Windows 95 or Macintosh compatible with System 7.1 or higher 16M RAM (preferably 32M) 19.6K or faster modem - preferably 28.8K Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape 3.0 (or higher) SacLink or other Internet Account Word processing skills Online class participation on the Web assignments and electronic discussions. If you require additional or more specific information you can read the section on Hardware Requirements.   Successful Student Characteristics Discipline to complete projects by deadlines instead of waiting until the end of the semester. Motivation to read, write, and participate fully in class activities. Time to devote approximately 9 hours a week to a 3-credit course. Ability to work independently and in teams. Flexibility in dealing with technology problems.    Instructor Prof. Audrey J. Moore's web page and e-mail address. INSTRUCTOR / RESOURCES / SYLLABUS DEPARTMENT / COLLEGE OF ARTS AND LETTERS/ CSUS Page updated: January 29, 1999