UCU 110 ADJUSTED MODULE_241202_001329

Introduction

  • Course Title: UCU 110: Communication and Collaborative Skills

  • Authors:

    • Mrs. Doris Kangai Njoka

    • Mr. Thomas M. Rimbui

    • Miss Beatrice N. Murila

    • Dr. Sophia M. Ndethiu

  • Vetted by: Dr. Harrison Mulwa

  • Purpose: To develop the capacity for effective communication in various contexts, fostering independent learning, collaboration, critical thinking, and information literacy.

  • Structure: Skills-based course for first-year university students with activities called ‘e-tivities’ and an argumentative essay project.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, the learner should be able to:

  1. Communicate effectively in academic and various settings (oral and written).

  2. Actively listen, take relevant notes, and respond appropriately.

  3. Prepare and utilize study schedules.

  4. Access, evaluate, and use information resources effectively.

  5. Conduct research and present findings.

  6. Apply information literacy and ethics in learning.

  7. Collaborate creatively in group research projects.

Course Description

  • This unit covers 39 hours, including online interactions.

  • Focus on developing effective college study methods and transferrable skills.

  • Skill focus areas:

    • Fundamentals of Communication and Collaboration

    • Empathic Listening

    • Oral Skills

    • Reading Skills

    • Information Literacy and Ethics

    • Interpersonal Skills

    • Study Skills

    • Advanced Writing Skills

  • Essential for graduation; a passing mark in UCU 110 is mandatory.

Course Requirements

  • Engagement in forums: posting responses and comments based on assigned readings.

  • Formatting guidelines: font 12, Times New Roman, relevant referencing style (e.g., APA).

  • Professional communication etiquette is encouraged to create a positive learning environment.

Lesson 1.0: Fundamentals of Communication and Collaboration

Introduction

  • Objective: Promote understanding through communication.

  • Importance of collaboration in academic and professional settings.

  • Core 4Cs (communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity) essential for 21st-century success.

Lesson Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the role of communication in enhancing understanding.

  • Key aspects of collaborative learning.

  • Benefits and necessary conditions for collaboration.

  • Role of persuasion and assertiveness in various contexts.

The Role of Communication

  • Active exchange of information using common symbols and signs.

  • Communication is multidimensional: includes speaking, listening, reading, and non-verbal aspects.

  • Functions:

    1. Enhance understanding (personal and subject-related).

    2. Facilitate persuasion and influence in interpersonal relationships.

    3. Initiate and maintain social connections.

  • Non-verbal communication: significant aspects include facial expressions, body language, and appearance.

Fundamentals of Collaboration

  • Collaboration defined: pooling efforts in learning environments to generate higher-order thoughts.

  • Necessary for addressing modern complex issues.

  • Builds accountability through group interaction.

  • Develops skills like leadership, decision-making, and communication.

E-tivity 1.4: Fundamentals of Collaboration

  • Individual Tasks:

    1. Research collaborative learning concepts and summarize benefits.

    2. Write a reflective response regarding the importance of collaboration in daily life.

Persuasion and Assertiveness

  • Persuasion: Key communication skill involving convincing others through verbal and non-verbal cues.

    • Techniques: evidence presentation, emotional appeals, inclusive language.

  • Assertiveness: Expressing oneself confidently without aggression.

    • Characteristics include self-control and openness.

Lesson 2: Listening and Note-Taking

Introduction

  • Importance of effective listening and note-taking in academic success.

Lesson Outcomes

  • Identify listening levels and characteristics of good listeners.

  • Discuss barriers to effective listening and possible solutions.

  • Take quality notes using various methods.

Levels of Listening

  • Vary by purpose, content, and listener’s state.

Effective Note-Taking

  • Guidelines: effective note-taking enhances retention and understanding.

  • Formats: outlines, charts, and diagrams.

Lesson 3: Oral Skills — Public Speaking

Introduction

  • Importance of public speaking in professional and academic settings.

Lesson Outcomes

  • Select appropriate topics for presentations.

  • Analyze audiences and prepare speech outlines.

  • Skills in delivering speeches and evaluating performance.

Speech Making Process

  • Stages include topic selection, organizing ideas, delivering, and evaluating.

Lesson 4: Study Skills

Introduction

  • Key distinctions between studying, reading, and exam preparation.

  • Importance of effective study schedules and habits.

Lesson Outcomes

  • Develop a study plan that optimally organizes time and materials.

  • Identify study habits and techniques, including the relationship between studying approaches and exam performance.

Lesson 5: Collaboration and Interpersonal Skills

Introduction

  • Teamwork relevance in modern academic and professional contexts.

Lesson Outcomes

  • Identify barriers to effective collaboration and strategies to foster team success.

Group Dynamics

  • Understanding different phases of group collaboration.

  • Managing conflicts effectively within teamwork.