Edward Lee Lamoureux, Ph.D.
Professor, Department of Communication and Department of Interactive Media
Bradley University
Global Communication Center 315
Peoria IL 61625
Office: (309) 677-2378 Home: 672-5878; Mobile: 635-2605
ell@bradley.edu; AIM/IM: dredleelam; 2nd Life: Professor Beliveau
-Rhetoric (link is to the Rhetorical Resources page) is the strategic use of symbols to generate meanings. Studying rhetoric examines how people are coordinated to get things done via verbal, nonverbal, and visual communication. The rhetorical perspective produces critical interpretations of how, when, and why verbal, nonverbal, and visual communication are effective and persuasive.
-Organizational rhetoric is the strategic use of symbols to influence the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of audiences important to the operation of organizations.
-The course focuses on rhetorical perspectives in five typical and recurring organizational contexts: identity rhetoric, issues rhetoric, risk rhetoric, crisis rhetoric, and rhetoric for internal audiences.
The course asks students to read, write, and speak about rhetorical action and ethical dilemmas in organizational communication. As a result, students can improve their reading, speaking, and writing skills, as well as their critical thinking abilities, particularly in light of practical communication dilemmas presented by everyday organizational challenges.
Class attendance is expected, as scheduled. Read and study the textbook according to the schedule. College-level writing and speaking will be developed and is expected. Late reading analysis summaries are not accepted. Late written paper and speech materials lose a full letter grade per 24 hours after the due date/time for 4 days. Thereafter, they must be turned in but will still receive an "F." Late final papers and speaking assignments merit a zero and course failure (in the absence of prior arrangements). Scholarly documentation of sources (MLA) is required.
30% of your course grade is based on summaries and analysis of the text and assigned readings. Text/reading summaries/analyses are posted to Forums on Sakai (DO NOT ATTACH a DOC. THERE; use the Sakai "paste into" function or enter the text into Sakai), one summary/analysis per chapter or page range, as assigned. If multiple chapters/ranges are due on one day, they will be submitted via separate posts. Each day's assignment will specify particular learning outcome(s) and foci for your summary/analysis (for example, theses/claims/evidence/reasoning). Reading assignments are due by 1pm the afternoon the assigned day.
I will also assign readings from the notes on my rhetorical theory website. These assignments are background and will not require any writing on your part.
50% of your course grade is based on writing and speaking assignments that analyze and interpret an organizational communication case study from a rhetorical perspective. The paper (in three parts: outline, draft, final) is an analysis of the rhetorical strategies presented via an organizational communication case study. Your speech (in three parts: written draft, presentation rehearsal, final presentation) is a persuasive presentation concerning rhetorical approaches to/the role of rhetoric from the "other side" of (or other party in) the case. Cases are indicated on the wiki and may be selected after the end of first class session (first come first served). Cases must be selected on or before October 6.
All papers, submitted as WORD.doc or WORD.docx (including full sentence outlines, rough drafts, and final paper) MUST feature sections with content specific section headings, main points organized by one of the patterns presented in class, and bib/ref. sections. Full sentence outlines and drafts without sections with section headings, main points organized by one of the patterns presented in class, and without properly formatted evidence and bibliographic citations [including URLs for retrieving web materials at the point you found them] will receive a zero, will be returned without critical commentary, and the "late submission" clock will start running from the time I return the paper. Final papers without the materials indicated above will receive a zero, without opportunity for redemption.
All sources should be carefully documented, and included in each assignment file, using the modified MLA style.
Papers for the first two steps are reduced by one full letter grade per 24 hours after the due date/time for each portion (full sentence outline & rough draft). Only students with a documented, completed, graded, and returned, full sentence outline may turn in a rough draft; only students with a completed, graded, and returned, rough draft may turn in the final paper. The first two parts (full sentence outlines & drafts) will NOT be accepted more than 4 calendar days after the due date. If a paper is not turned in by then, you must drop the course or receive an "F." Speech rehearsal and speech must be given on the assigned day. Students must complete the term paper assignment and speeches in order to pass the class. Skipping any of the parts/steps will result in course failure, regardless of point accumulation. Final papers will only be accepted on time, as scheduled.
Send the full sentence-outline as an email attachment. I'll set up assignments using "Turnitin" for submission of the draft and completed paper. Title the file (save or save as) according to the form"yourlastname_outline.docx"
Turn in
draft and completed paper as .doc or .docx documents. Title the file (save or save as) according to the form "yourlastname_draft.docx", "yourlastname_final.docx". Papers turned in with improper file names will be returned, ungraded and zero credit. I only accept WORD documents.
I will return graded materials with comments. I use WORD's "comments" function as well as (sometimes) adding an audio file (Mp3). The files are returned to your dropbox space on our course site on Sakai. Easiest ways to flunk this course: 1) don't do the papers 2) ignore the comments on make on previous versions.
Don't forget that our library features kind and knowledgable librarians who are expert at suggesting effective and efficient research strategies for students working on papers. It's possible that the librarian at the reference desk, the moment you go in, might not be the most expert person in the area you are looking for. That person will often be able to refer to you a more expert librarian, when needed. Generally, however, they are all very good at pointing you in the right direction in your search for high quality support materials. Bradley provides these professionals as a resource for BU students. You should take advantage of their expertise. I guarantee that they can do a better search than you can . . . and therefore, they can help you do better searching than you would without their help. Also remember that, in many instances, print resources are superior to materials found online. Research materials found using our academic databases are far superior to resources found using a basic Google search.
20% of your course grade is based on examinations. Midterm and final over Hoffman and Ford and lectures.
There
is a Sakai site for grades, your written work, and class email.
Electronic devices may not be used in class. This includes laptop computers, iPods, iPads, and cell phones. If you wish to take notes, you'll need paper and writing instrument. Use of electronics will meet with suggestion that you leave; turn your cell phone and mp3 devices off/vibrate/silence. You will be instructed to bring your laptop on days they are required.
I do not use text messaging, so one student each day will be identified as the "designated emergency text message monitor" and will be asked to leave their cell phone on for this purpose. You must be registered with the BU emergency notificaction system to serve.
All students are responsible to the same syllabus schedule, regardless of outside or BU-sponsored activities. If I accept materials early it is only by agreement, before the fact.
In accordance with University procedures, if you have a documented disability and require accommodations to obtain equal access in this course, please contact me privately to discuss your specific needs. You must be registered with Student Access Services located at 100 Heitz Hall. You can reach the SAS at (309) 677-3654 or find more information at the Student Access Services website [http://www.bradley.edu/offices/student/sas/ ]. Generally, the service requires advanced notice for arrangements; please contact them now.
Please do not call (home, 672-5878; cell 635-2605) after 8pm unless there is an emergency. "Official" office hours
are: Tues/Thursday, 10:30-11:15, and by appointment (GCC 315; 677-2378). My e-mail address
is <ell@bradley.edu>, I also use that for FaceTime conferences. skype: dredleelam.
As a matter of the Department of Communication's policy to protect student privacy and in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, questions and concerns regarding grades must be presented in person or in a written letter. Instructors will not respond to questions and concerns communicated through e-mail or telephone calls regarding grades.
When missing classes and related assignments due to illness, it is the student's responsibility to provide documentation to verify the student's absence, unless the Office of the Associate Provost for Student Affairs informs an instructor of the basis for the absence. Students may sign an informational release form at Student Health; the document enables faculty to verify treatment at the Clinic.
Plagiarism merits an "F" and disciplinary action. DON'T copy each other's work and DO document sources properly. BU policy here: https://www.bradley.edu/academic/undergradcat/20172018/overview-archeating.dot
Turnitin is licensed by the university. Drafts and final papers go through Turnitin. Information about Turnitin and plagiarism prevention is available on the Bradley Turnitin website -- https://bradley.edu/academic/cio/ctel/plagiarism/
In accordance with University policies, the Department of Interactive Media does not condone the use of pirated software. Details of the University policies are articulated at <http://www.bradley.edu/irt/policies/5.04.html>; further, the Student Handbook, at item 6 <http://www.bradley.edu/campuslife/studenthandbook/policies/conduct/>, forbids the possession of stolen goods. Students in violation of these policies can expect enforcement via the university procedures regarding conduct.
15 reading analysis summaries (14 X 22) 308
1 full sentence outline with bib. 50
1 rough draft with bib. 75
1 final paper with bib. 125
1 Oral presentation, written rough draft with bib 50
1 Oral presentation rehearsal 50
1 Self-critique, speech rough draft presentation 42
1 Oral presentation 100
1 Midterm exam (text readings and lecture) 100
1 Final exam (text readings and lecture) 100
Total points 1000 points (final total can vary from 1000)
100%-88.5: A 88.4-78.5: B 78.4-68.5: C 68.4-58.5: D <58.5: F
Hoffman, Mary, F. and Debra J. Ford. Organizational Rhetoric: Situations and Strategies. Sage, 2010.
George Cheney, Lars Thoger Christensen, Charles Conrad and Daniel J. Lair.
"Corporate rhetoric as organizational discourse." The Sage Handbook of Organizational Discourse (David Grant, Cynthia Hardy, Cliff Oswick, Linda Putnam, eds.). Sage: 2004, 79-103.
E. Johanna Hartelius and Larry D. Browning. "The Application of Rhetorical Theory in Managerial Research: A Literature Review." Management Communication Quarterly, Volume 22 (1) August, 2008: 13-39.
Clifton Wilson Scott; Angela Trethewey.
"
Organizational Discourse and the Appraisal of Occupational Hazards: Interpretive Repertoires, Heedful
Interrelating, and Identity at Work (2008). Journal of Applied Communication Research 36:3, 298—317.
Richard Ice. "Corporate Publics and Rhetorical Strategies: The Case of Union Carbide's Bhopal Crisis." Management Communication Quarterly vol. 4 (3) February, 1991: 341-362.
24- class 1
due: You. Show up.
In class:
Introduce class procedures and define the rhetorical perspective to organizational communication
For class 2: Read and summarize Hoffman & Ford, chapter 1 and do summary and Thesis Analysis. Read but do not write about Plato and rhetoric
29- class 2
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 1 as summary and Thesis Analysis
In class:
Hoffman & Ford, chapter 1 & Plato on rhetoric
For class 3:
Review George Cheney, Lars Thoger Christensen, Charles Conrad and Daniel J. Lair.
"Corporate rhetoric as organizational discourse" as summary with takeaway.
31- class 3
due: "Corporate rhetoric as organizational discourse" as summary with takeaway.
Rhetorical sensitivity in the corporate environment
In Class:
"Corporate rhetoric as organizational discourse."
For class 4: Review E. Johanna Hartelius and Larry D. Browning. "The Application of Rhetorical Theory in Managerial Research: A Literature as summary with takeaway.
September
5- class 4
due: "The Application of Rhetorical Theory in Managerial Research: A Literature Review" as summary with takeaway.
In Class: Making more of rhetoric in business than do most business managers.
For class 5: Read but do not write about Aristotle and rhetoric.
7- class 5
In Class: Aristotle on Rhetoric
For class 6: Read Hoffman & Ford, chapter 2 and do Claim analysis summary
12- class 6 [see Clark's treatments of the canons, linked below]
due: Read Hoffman & Ford, chapter 2 as Claim analysis summary
In Class: The Five Rhetorical Canons
For class 7: Read but do not write about Notes from Donald L. Clark's Rhetoric In Greco-Roman Education: Clark on the Precepts of Rhetoric, rhetorical invention, arrangement, word choice/style, delivery, memory
14-class 7
In Class: Chicken or the Egg? Rhetoric, Ethics, the Canons and purposive discourse in organizations.
For class 8: Read Hoffman & Ford, chapter 3 as Evidence analysis summary
19- class 8
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 3 as Evidence analysis summary
In Class: The Rhetorical Situation
For class 9: Read Hoffman & Ford, pages 78-top of 88 and do Full sentence outline (3 levels deep); Read but do not write about Bitzer pt. 1 & pt. 2
21- class 9
no class
due: Hoffman & Ford, pages 78-top of 88 as Full sentence outline (3 levels deep)
For class 10: Read Hoffman & Ford, pages 88-100 and do analysis of the relationships among sets of points; Read but do not write about Foucault and Habermas
26- class 10
due: Hoffman & Ford, pages 88-100 as analysis of the relationships among sets of points
In Class: Introduction to critical theory: Organizations, power, and rhetoric, pt. 1 (Foucault & Habermas)
For class 11: Read but do not write about Feminist Rhetoric, and African/African American/Asian rhetorics.
28- class 11
In Class: Introduction to critical theory: Organizations, power, and rhetoric, pt. 2 (Feminist and A/AA/A rhetorics)
For class 12: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 5 and do a summary with take-aways; Read but do not write about McGee
October
3- class 12
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 5 as summary with take-aways
In Class: Introduction to rhetorical criticism, pt. 1 (especially data collection/corpus management)
For class 13: Review (no writing) the worksheets for Analyzing Organizational Rhetoric, pp. 238-244.
5- class 13
Evaluating and critiquing organizational communication, Introduction to rhetorical criticism, pt. 2 (especially analysis).
For class 14: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 6 as Your thesis and claims analysis summary; Read but do not summarize notes on Perelman & Five Trademark Concerns When Rebranding
7-10 Fall Break
12- class 14
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 6 as Your thesis and claims analysis summary
In Class:
About the two projects: Any questions? Midterm Examination (Hoffman & Ford chapters 1-5 plus lecture material)
For class 15: Read but do not summarize notes on Burke
17- class 15
In Class: Perelman, Burke, Bitzer and Identity creation and maintenance rhetoric in organization
For class 17: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 7, as Your evidence analysis summary
18 Mid Term Grades Due
19- class 16 (no class)
For class 17: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 7, as Your evidence analysis summary
24- class 17:
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 7, as Your evidence analysis summary
In Class: Issue management communication in organizations
For class 18: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 8 and Suggest Your Thesis for the chapter and organize your 3 main points into three organizational patterns
26- class 18
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 8 and Suggest Your Thesis for the chapter and organize your 3 main points into three organizational patterns
In Class: Risk management communication in organizations
For class 19: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 9 as summary with take-away
31- class 19
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 9 as summary with take-away
In Class: Crisis communication in organizations, pt. 1
For class 20: For class 20: Read Richard Ice. "Corporate Publics and Rhetorical Strategies: The Case of Union Carbide's Bhopal Crisis" and do a summary with take-away
November
2- class 20
due: Richard Ice. "Corporate Publics and Rhetorical Strategies: The Case of Union Carbide's Bhopal Crisis" and do a summary with take-away
In Class:
Crisis communication in organizations, pt. 2
For class 21: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 10 and do a summary with take-away
7- class 21
due: Hoffman & Ford, chapter 10 and do a summary with take-away
In Class:
No Class. Steiner Symposium & work on your outline day
For class 22:
Full sentence outline of paper & speech due at or before 2:50pm, Nov. 9
9- class 22
due: Full sentence outline of paper and speech at or before 2:50pm
In Class:
Rhetoric for internal audiences
14- class 23
Individual meetings over papers; no formal class.
For class 24: Rough Draft of paper and of speech due at or before 5:00pm November 21
15 Last day to drop classes with a “W” on the transcript
16- class 24: (no class)
For class 25: Read but do not summarize IM 355 concept 1 notes
21- class 25 due: Rough Draft of paper and of speech due at or before 5:00pm
In class: Organizational rhetoric in a global, interactive, mediated environment, pt. 1
For class 26: Final paper due at or before 2:50pm December 5; Read but do not summarize IM 355 concept 9 notes and concept 10 notes
22-26 Thanksgiving Break
28-- class 26
In Class: IM 355 concept 9 notes and concept 10 notes
For class 27: work on paper and speech
30- class 27
In Class: Individual meetings over papers; no formal class
For class 28: Final paper due at or before 2:50pm Dec. 5
December
5- class 28: Final paper due at or before 2:50pm
In Class: Oral speech peer coaching and rehearsal (bring thumb drive to save your speech).
6 Study Day: Self critique due by noon
7- 12-2pm Final Exam & Speeches
© 2017, Ed Lamoureux