Communication Studies - TCC OER Subject Guide: OER starting points
This guide compiles starting points for OER and freely available resources for Communication Studies courses and topics. This OER subject guide was created for TCC faculty and staff and reflects TCC credit, continuing education, and corrections course offerings. The purpose of this guide is to help faculty and staff more easily find and review OER in their areas so that they can make decisions about quality, accuracy, relevancy, and potential use.
OER starting points for Communication Studies, by course area and material type
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- COMM10: Survey of Human Communication (OER textbook)Elaine Lee, Foothill-De Anza Community College District, 2021. "It combines chapters from Public Speaking Project and edited chapters from Communication in the Real World." Organized into 17 chapters. Online, PDF, print book files, and LMS course formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Process of Communication (OER textbook)College of the Canyons, 2020. Organized into 13 chapters, each with interactive boxes, discussion questions, and key terms. PDF format in Google Drive. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- A Primer on Communication Studies (OER textbook)Published 2012, available on the Univ. of Hawaii OER site. "Introduction to communication studies." PDF format. CC BY-NC-SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Communication in the Real World: An Introduction to Communication Studies (OER textbook)Textbook adapted by Univ. of Minnesota, 2016. "Communication in the Real World: An Introduction to Communication Studies overviews the time-tested conceptual foundations of the field, while incorporating the latest research and cutting-edge applications of these basics. Each chapter will include timely, concrete, and real-life examples of communication concepts in action." Online, print PDF, digital PDF, and editable OpenDocument formats. Organized into 16 chapters. Peer reviews of the text available on this site. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - Share Alike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Introduction to Communication (OER textbook)Scott T. Paynton & Laura K. Hahn, Humboldt State University, 2021, hosted via LibreTexts platform. "This textbook is targeted for Introduction to Human Communication courses that introduce students to the study of Communication. The underlying organization addressed the importance of students to be able to answer the question, “What is Communication Study?” in a way that captures the field of Communication appropriately, as well as an important discipline across colleges and universities." Organized into 13 chapters. Online, PDF, print book files, and LMS course formats. CC BY SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Introduction to Communication (OER course)Course adapted by Alamo Colleges instructor through an Achieving the Dream grant and currently hosted by LibreTexts. Organized into 13 modules with integrated links and videos. Online and PDF formats. Course pages may have different CC (Creative Commons) open licenses. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- COMM001: Principles of Human Communication (OER course)Saylor Academy course, with 5 units that "will introduce you to communication principles, common communication practices, and a selection of theories to better understand the communication transactions that you experience in your daily life. The principles and practices that you study in this course will provide the foundation for further study in communications." Includes end-of-unit assessments (available upon free log-in). Final exam is NOT openly licensed. TIP: Click on the "Resources" link in the course menu for a shortcut to resources and files used in the course. Web version only. Licensed under a CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license, but sources used may have different or additional licenses. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- CMST 101 – Intro to Communication (OER ancillary materials)SBCTC's Open Course Library, last updated in 2013. Course uses low-cost textbook and supplemental readings, but course assessments and learning activities are openly licensed with a CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Google Drive organized into "Course Units" and "Course Resources" folders. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Making Conflict Suck Less: The Basics (OER textbook)Ashley Orme Nichols, Boise State University, 2020. "Even though conflict is one of the most natural occurrences in the human experience, most of us don't have effective strategies and frameworks for approaching conflict when it happens. This book provides basic strategies and frameworks for folks that want to learn to turn conflict into an opportunity in their lives that leads to stronger relationships." Tone is intentionally straightforward, practical, and informally engaging. Organized into 6 chapters. Online, PDF, and EPUB formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- Media & Society: Critical Approaches (OER textbook)Randy Nichols, et al., Univ. of Washington, [2018]. “This book explores theoretical perspectives and core issues in the relationship between the media and society, including the production and reception of both news and entertainment. Evaluates the historical, cultural, political and economic contexts of media industries, representations, and audiences.” Adapted and updated from 2 main OER texts, which are also included on this guide: Understanding Media and Culture, and Media Studies 101. Online format via Pressbooks. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand (PoD) if converted into a print-ready format.
- Understanding Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication (OER textbook)Univ. of Minnesota Libraries, 2016. "An introductory text in mass communication" organized into 16 chapters. Peer reviews of the site available on this site. Online, digital PDF, and print PDF formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Media Studies 101 (OER textbook)Erika Pearson, University of Otago (New Zealand), 2013. "[T]he open educational resource for media studies studies in New Zealand, Australia, and Pacifica." Organized into four major parts: Reading Media Texts, Culture and Contexts, Production and Structures, and Audiences & Identity. Could be useful as supplements or case studies with international/global perspective? Online, PDF, and ebook file formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Media, Society, Culture and You: An Introductory Mass Communication Text (OER textbook)Mark Poeopsel, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, published by Rebus Community, 2018. “[A]n approachable introductory Mass Communication text that covers major mass communication terms and concepts including "digital culture." It discusses various media platforms and how they are evolving as Information and Communication Technologies change. This book has been peer-reviewed by 6 subject experts.” Organized into 10 chapters and includes an accessibility assessment. Online, digital PDF, print PDF, EPUB, and editable OpenDocument formats. Peer reviews of the text available on this site. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- New Media Futures (OER textbook)Daniel Faltesek & Daniel Adams, Oregon State University, 2019. “This book is intended for use in a large introductory class in new media in a program that covers the “full-stack” including critical/cultural studies, media management, diffusion of innovation, and synthetic media production. The first half of this basic sequence covered new media and democracy, finance, intellectual property law, basic games, and transmedia. The second half of the sequence covers many topics related to aesthetics, design, technology, and methodology.” Organized into 5 major sections, with a more theoretical approach/framework. Online, PDF, and eBook file formats. CC BY NC (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Technology, Media Literacy, and the Human Subject: A Posthuman Approach (OER textbook)Richard S. Lewis, Prescott College, 2021. “[P]rovid[es] a transdisciplinary method that allows for both practical and theoretical analyses of media investigations.” A more philosophical approach to the subject; may be useful for supplemental readings and/or discussion prompts. Online, PDF file formats. CC BY (Creative Commons Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- Digital Media Workbook (OER ancillary materials)Joycelyn Streator, University System of Georgia, 2020. "The Digital Media Workbook provides media-rich review questions for fundamental digital media concepts. It’s recommended that students use the Interactive Workbook to review concepts from lectures or readings and assess their mastery." Instructor's guide in PDF format. Workbook available as Canvas course, complete with assessments and reviews. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license.
- The Media Manipulation CasebookJoan Donovan, et al., in coordination with Harvard University’s Kennedy School and Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy. “[A] digital research platform linking together theory, methods, and practice for mapping media manipulation and disinformation campaigns. This resource is intended for researchers, journalists, technologists, policymakers, educators, and civil society organizers who want to learn about detecting, documenting, describing, and debunking misinformation, disinformation, and media manipulation.” Site includes sections for Case Studies, Methods, Definitions, and Research. Online + printable versions of each case study. Although this site and content is not openly licensed, the site’s Privacy Policy page states permission to “distribute printed pages or PDFs from this website for educational, non-commercial purposes” and each case study includes a sample citation.
- COM 101 (21471) Media Literacy (OER ancillary materials)CUNY College of Staten Island, 2021. Course syllabus with weekly schedule, assignments, and discussion topics. Course uses the OER textbook Understanding Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication, also linked on this guide.
- Intro to Mass Communication (OER ancillary materials)Worcester State University, 2018. Course syllabus, 2 writing assignments, and a group project assignment. Course uses the OER textbook Understanding Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication, also linked on this guide.
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- Intercultural Communication for the Community College - 2nd Edition (OER textbook)Karen Krumrey, Lane Community College, 2nd ed., 2022. Created for community college students. "In the quest to explore the multiple facets of intercultural communication, this book is divided into three general areas: foundations, elements, and contexts. The foundations cover the basic principles associated with communication studies and culture. The elements move beyond the basics into self, identities, verbal, and nonverbal process associated with communication and culture. Contexts explore all the different environments such as media, business, and education, in which intercultural communication occurs." Conclusion states that this work was created with "the principles of cultural humility to create a gracious space for communication." Organized into 12 chapters. Faculty peer reviews of this text available on this site Online (Pressbooks), PDF, EPUB, and Common Cartridge formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Intercultural Communication: Creating Intercultural Communication Competence (OER textbook)College of the Canyons, last updated 2020. "The following chapters will cover topics such as: understanding cultural identity, social construction, cultural biases, and culture shock." Includes interactive features and critical thinking questions. Organized into 8 chapters. PDF format in Google Drive. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Intercultural Communication (OER textbook)Shannon Ahrndt, University of Missouri-St. Louis, 2020. "Intercultural Communication examines culture as a variable in interpersonal and collective communication. It explores the opportunities and problems arising from similarities and differences in communication patterns, processes, and codes among various cultural groups. It explores cultural universals, social categorization, stereotyping and discrimination, with a focus on topics including race, ethnicity, social class, religion, gender and sexuality as they relate to communication." Organized into 7 chapters. PDF format. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Language and Culture in Context - A Primer on Intercultural CommunicationRobert Godwin-Jones, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2021. "The text introduces some of the key concepts in intercultural communication as traditionally presented in (North American) courses and textbooks, namely the study of differences between cultures, as represented in the works and theories of Edward Hall (1959) and Geert Hofstede (1980). Common to these approaches is the prominence of context, leading to a view of human interactions as dynamic and changeable, given the complexity of language and culture, as human agents interact with their environments. This aligns with the principal approach used in this textbook, which is broadly ecological, looking at the multiple factors of individuality and context (including but not limited to national origin) that influence intercultural communication. There is an attempt throughout the text to incorporate views on intercultural communication from a geographically diverse array of scholars, supplementing the author's North American perspective." Organized into 7 chapters. Online, PDF, print book files, and LMS course formats. CC BY NC (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Exploring Intercultural Communication (OER course/text)Tom Grothe, Butte College, 2020. "Intercultural communication is an approach to relations among members of these groups that focuses on the recognition and respect of cultural differences, seeks the goal of mutual adaptation leading to biculturalism rather than simple assimilation, and supports the development of intercultural sensitivity on the part of individuals and organizations to enable empathic understanding and competent coordination of action across cultural differences." Organized into 10 main chapters. Online, PDF, LMS cartridge, and print book file formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Intercultural Communication - Fundamentals in Communication (OER course)Sara Marie Sorenson, Lake Superior College, 2019. "This is a D2L Brightspace module covering the foundations of communication. This is used as an introduction to an intercultural communication course." Zip file. CC BY-NC-SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
- Leading with Cultural Intelligence (OER textbook)Saylor textbook, 2012, with the purpose to "outline the important ideas of cultural intelligence and the steps that must be considered and then practiced to become a culturally intelligent leader." Organized into 8 chapters. PDF and online formats. Peer reviews of the text are available on this site. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Working Together for Racial Justice and Inclusion (OER ancillary materials)From the Community Tool Box site, a service of the Center for Community Health and Development at the University of Kansas. This toolkit includes sections on "Understanding Culture and Diversity in Building Communities" and "Multicultural Collaboration," among others. Online format, with a checklist and PowerPoint slides. CC BY NC SA 3.0 (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- Speaking of Culture (OER textbook)Nolan Weil, Utah State University and published by Rebus Community, 2019. Interdisciplinary text on culture, organized into 9 chapters. Online, digital PDF, and EPUB formats. CC BY NC (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Diversity and difference in communication (OER textbook)OpenLearn mini-course now hosted on LibreTexts platforms., Modules that "explore the ways in which difference and diversity impact on the nature of communication in health and social care services." Organized into 6 modules, some with integrated activities. Online, PDF, print book files, and LMS course formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Enhancing Cultural Competence (toolkit)2018 toolkit from the Community Toolbox, a service of the Center for Community Health and Development at the University of Kansas. Online format. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license.
Canvas course shells:
- CMST& 220 Public Speaking (WACTC OER course)To view: First, log into your TCC Canvas faculty account, then click on the Canvas Commons link/icon in the global navigation menu, and then finally click this link to view this Canvas course content. OER Canvas course shared by SBCTC, 2020. Includes modules, assignments, quizzes, and discussions. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license.
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- It’s About Them: Public Speaking in the 21st Century (OER textbook)Sara Kim, et al., LOUIS: The Louisiana Library Network, 2022. Introductory textbook for public speaking, designed for dual-enrolled students. Organized into 16 chapters, including modern forms of public speaking, such as online public speaking. The preface provides information for how to contact for the accompany open course with ancillary materials designed around this OER text. Faculty peer reviews of this text available on this site. Online (Pressbooks), PDF, EPUB, and Common Cartridge formats. CC BY-NC-SA (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Speak Out, Call In: Public Speaking as Advocacy (OER textbook)Published by University of Kansas Libraries, 2019, this OER textbook is "a contemporary, interdisciplinary public speaking textbook that fuses rhetoric, critical/cultural studies, and performance to offer an up-to-date resource for students. With a focus on advocacy, this textbook invites students to consider public speaking as a political, purposeful form of information-sharing." Organized into 4 sections, with 15 chapters. Online and PDF formats. This site includes faculty peer reviews of this text. CC BY-NC-SA (Creative Commons - Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Exploring Public Speaking, 4th ed. (OER textbook + ancillary resources)Developed by Dalton State College instructors through a Georgia Galileo grant, 4th ed. published Summer 2019. 15 chapters + appendices, "especially useful in coverage of PowerPoint, audience responsiveness, ethics in public speaking, special occasion speeches, and structure of speeches. Three ancillaries are available: electronic “flash cards” for study, Powerpoints on the 15 main chapters, and test banks for the 15 main chapters." Ancillary resources available upon request. PDF, Word, accessible Word, EPUB, and Kindle formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Stand Up, Speak Out: The Practice and Ethics of Public SpeakingUniv. of Minnesota Libraries, 2016. "Stand up, Speak out: The Practice and Ethics of Public Speakingf eatures two key themes. First it focuses on helping students become more seasoned and polished public speakers, and second is its emphasis on ethics in communication." Organized into 18 chapters, each with chapter exercises. Online, digital PDF, print PDF, and editable OpenDocument formats. Peer reviews of the text available on this site. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Using Your Speech Power! Instructional Materials for Communication Teachers and StudentsSteven Ginley, Morton College, 2019. Textbook, presentation slides, and zip files of practice tests and quizzes. Organized into 9 chapters, with integrated activities. Textbook is in PDF format. CC BY S (Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- The Public Speaking Project (OER textbook)OER textbook developed by communication and speech professionals, 2011. Organized into 18 chapters, with related activities. Online, PDF, print files, and LMS file formats. CC BY NC ND (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - NoDerivatives) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Fundamentals of Public Speaking (OER textbook)College of the Canyons, 2019. Organized into 14 chapters plus appendices. Each chapter includes review questions and glossary of vocabulary. PDF format in Google Drive. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Principles of Public Speaking course (OER course)Co-developed by TCC communications instructor for the Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative, hosted via Lumen Learning. Organized into 17 modules, with some content coming from The Public Speaking Project. Faculty resources available, including assignments and example syllabi. Online format with a downloadable PDF version. Course pages may have different CC (Creative Commons) open licenses. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Public Speaking (OER course)Developed by Lee Ann Thomas, Clinton Community College, through an Achieving the Dream grant, and currently hosted by LibreTexts.. Organized into 6 modules, and focusing primarily on different types of speeches. Modules organized into Read, Discuss, and Do structure. Some modules incorporate chapters from The Public Speaking Project. Includes a mid-term and final test. Original content under a CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license, but some course pages or content may have different CC (Creative Commons) open licenses. Online and PDF formats. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- COMM101: Public Speaking (OER course)Saylor Academy course, with 15 units that "systematically examines the elements of an effective speech." Final exam is NOT openly licensed. TIP: Click on the "Resources" link in the course menu for a shortcut to resources and files used in the course. Web format only. Licensed under a CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license, but sources used may have different or additional licenses. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
- Advanced Public Speaking (OER textbook)Lynn Meade, Univ. of Arkansas, 2020. "This advanced public speaking textbook is designed to encourage you as a speaker and to help you sharpen your skills. It is written to feel like you are sitting with a trusted mentor over coffee as you receive practical advice on speaking." Organized into 6 main sections: Writing a Speech, Presenting a Speech, Presentation Aids for Speech, Speeches (samples), Considerations for Speech, and Classroom Activities. Online, print PDF, digital PDF, and EPUB formats. CC BY (Creative Commons Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- Exploring Public Speaking, 3rd ed. (open textbook + ancillary resources)Developed by Dalton State College instructors through a Georgia Galileo grant, 2018. Ancillary resources available upon request. "Three ancillaries are available: electronic “flash cards” for study, Powerpoints on the 15 main chapters, and test banks for the 15 main chapters." Lecture slides also available for download. PDF, Word, EPUB, and Kindle formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license.
- Presenter Toolkit: Creating and Facilitating an Accessible PresentationRebecca Shortt, BCcampus (Canada), 2021. "[C]reated to support presenters in creating accessible and inclusive online and in-person presentations." Organized into 3 main sections: Presenting Practices, Slide Design, and Virtual Presenting Tips. Online, digital PDF, print PDF, EPUB, and Common Cartridge formats. CC BY (Creative Commons Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- Interpersonal Communication: A Mindful Approach to Relationships (OER textbook + ancillary resources)Jason S. Wrench, Narissra M. Punyanunt-Carter & Katherine S. Thweatt, Open SUNY, 2020. "[H]elps readers examine their own one-on-one communicative interactions using a mindfulness lens [...] Each chapter is broken into different sections that have unique instructional outcomes, key takeaways, and exercises, and concludes with real-world case studies and sample quiz questions." Organized into 14 chapters. PDF format. Comes with an accompanying student workbook and lecture slides. Email provided to request instructor manual. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Interpersonal Communication (OER textbook)College of the Canyons, last updated 2020. PDF format in Google Drive. Portions of this text were adapted from A Primer on Communication Studies. "The following chapters will cover topics such as: dealing with conflict, how to communicate in professional and personal relationships, and self-presentation in communication." Includes interactive features to help students engage with concepts. Organized into 6 chapters plus appendix. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- The Seven Challenges Workbook: Communication Skills for Success at Home & Work"This workbook proposes seven ways to guide your conversations in directions that are more satisfying for both you and your conversation partners," created 1997-2018. Focuses on talking, listening, conflict resolutions, and effective team-building. Online and PDF formats, also available in Spanish. Additional resources in the Library tab, including Conflict Resolution Emergency Kit and Resources for Communication Skills Classes and Group. CC BY SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - ShareAlike) license.
- Message Processing: The Science of Creating Understanding (OER textbook)Jessica Gasiorek, Univ. of Hawaii, 2018. "The text provides an upper-level undergraduate introduction and explanation of the social and cognitive processes involved in human communication, focusing on how people create understanding." Used as an interpersonal communications text by some California community colleges. Organized into 5 sections, including Traditional Models of Human Communication and The Inferential Model of Human Communication. Online, digital PDF, and print PDF formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Library e-books with unlimited user access:
Interpersonal communication by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2014"This handbook comprehensively covers the field including research on processes of social influence, the role of communication in the development, maintenance and decline of close personal relationships, nonverbal communication, cognitive approaches, communication and conflict, bargaining and negotiation, health communication, organizational socialization and supervisor-subordinate communication, social networks, and technologically-mediated interpersonal communication." Organized into 5 main parts, including an introduction, fundamental processes, functions, and contexts.
Connect, relate, motivate: Master communication in any situation by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2020"This book is a fresh approach to tackle modern communication challenges, written for today's time poor reader; easily consumed in one sitting (one flight), or one night This book is a holistic approach to professional and personal communication that will be a significant support in the boardroom, the living room and also the classroom." Organized into 7 chapters.
Breaking through gridlock: The power of conversation in a polarized worldCall Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2017"Using enlightening exercises and rich examples, Breaking through Gridlock helps us become aware of the role we unwittingly play in getting conversations stuck. It empowers us to share what really matters - with anyone, anywhere - so that together we can create positive change in our families, organizations, communities, and society." Organized into 8 chapters.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- Making Conflict Suck Less: The Basics (OER textbook)Ashley Orme Nichols, Boise State University, 2020. "Even though conflict is one of the most natural occurrences in the human experience, most of us don't have effective strategies and frameworks for approaching conflict when it happens. This book provides basic strategies and frameworks for folks that want to learn to turn conflict into an opportunity in their lives that leads to stronger relationships." Tone is intentionally straightforward, practical, and informally engaging. Organized into 6 chapters. Online, PDF, and EPUB formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Selected Assignments for Interpersonal CommunicationsCreated by CUNY Bronx Community College instructor, 2018. PDf format. CC BY NC (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial) license.
- Four Principles of Interpersonal CommunicationCreated by Pellissippi State Community College instructor, 2000. Web page under all rights reserved copyright but ok to link to.
- CMST 210 – Interpersonal Communication (OER ancillary materials)Open Course Library course developed by SBCTC, last updated in 2013. Includes course readings, unit outlines, and assignments. Organized in a Google Drive with two major folders: Course Resources and Course Units. Unlike some Open Course Library courses, this one is NOT dependent on a low-cost textbook. CC BY (Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- Small Group Communication: Forming & Sustaining Teams (OER textbook)Jasmine R. Linabary and Moon Castro, Emporia State University, 2021. "[a]n interdisciplinary textbook focused on communication in groups and teams. This textbook aims to provide students with theories, concepts, and skills they can put into practice to form and sustain successful groups across a variety of contexts." Organized into 4 main parts (Overview, Forming Groups, Sustaining Groups, and Group Communication Skills) with 16 chapters. Faculty peer reviews of this text available on this site. Online (Pressbooks), PDF, and e-book formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Small Group Communication (OER textbook)College of the Canyons, last updated 2020. Organized into 10 chapters, each with learning objectives, key takeaways, and exercises. PDF format in Google Drive. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- An Introduction to Group Communication (OER textbook)OER textbook now available from LibreTexts platform. "[O]ffers a practical introduction to the theory and practice of group communication, with an emphasis on real world applications to develop an awareness, understanding, and skills to effectively participate as a productive group member. Through a clear and concise approach to group decision-making and dynamics in teams and leadership, students are presented with the tools needed to create plans, find solutions to problems, produce goods or deliver services, and evaluate their performance through self and peer assessments." Co-adapted by a Clover Park Technical College instructor. Organized into 12 chapters. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - Share Alike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Managing Groups and Teams (Wikibooks)Wikibook textbook Includes communication issues with groups and teams, primarily from a management and leadership perspective. Last edited in 2021. Online, Printable/editable and PDF formats. CC BY SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - Share Alike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- CMST& 230 Small Group Communication (OER ancillary materials)Open Course Library course developed by SBCTC, last updated in 2013. Includes course readings, assignments, information literacy assessments. Organized in a Google Drive with two major folders: Course Resources and Course Units. Unlike some Open Course Library courses, this one is NOT dependent on a low-cost textbook. CC BY (Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand if materials are compiled into a print-ready format.
- Working in diverse teams (OER course)OpenLearn course that explores diversity within teams and team roles, including a section on virtual teams. Organized into 8 weekly modules. Online, Word, EPUB, and PDF formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Problem Solving in Teams and Groups (OER textbook)Cameron W. Piercy, University of Kansas Libraries, 2019. Focuses on group dynamics. Written for an upper-level college communications course, but sections may be useful for examples and case studies. Organized into 3 sections, with 23 chapters. Online and PDF formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Working in groups and teams (OpenLearn mini-course)OpenLearn mini-course with 8 modules, some with integrated activities. Online, PDF, EPUB, Kindle, and Word formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license.
- Communication in the Real World: An Introduction to Communication Studies (Univ. of Minnesota Libraries textbook)Textbook adapted by Univ. of Minnesota, 2016. Includes two substantial chapters on group communication, Chapters 13 & 14. "Each chapter will include timely, concrete, and real-life examples of communication concepts in action." Online, print PDF, digital PDF, and editable OpenDocument formats. Organized into 16 chapters. Peer reviews of the text available on this site. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - Share Alike) license.
- Communication ChecklistChecklist worksheet, 2017, created for students to work on group projects to make sure they are using good communication skills. Online format. CC BY NC (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial) license.
- Making Conflict Suck Less: The Basics (OER textbook)Ashley Orme Nichols, Boise State University, 2020. "Even though conflict is one of the most natural occurrences in the human experience, most of us don't have effective strategies and frameworks for approaching conflict when it happens. This book provides basic strategies and frameworks for folks that want to learn to turn conflict into an opportunity in their lives that leads to stronger relationships." Tone is intentionally straightforward, practical, and informally engaging. Organized into 6 chapters. Online, PDF, and EPUB formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
For OER and library resources on business communication, please explore the Business OER subject guide, linked below and then click on the "Business communication" sub-tab:
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- Media, Society, Culture and You: An Introductory Mass Communication Text (OER textbook)Mark Poeopsel, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, published by Rebus Community, 2018. “[A]n approachable introductory Mass Communication text that covers major mass communication terms and concepts including "digital culture." It discusses various media platforms and how they are evolving as Information and Communication Technologies change. This book has been peer-reviewed by 6 subject experts.” Organized into 10 chapters and includes an accessibility assessment. Online, digital PDF, print PDF, EPUB, and editable OpenDocument formats. Peer reviews of the text available on this site. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Understanding Media and Culture: An Introduction to Mass Communication (OER textbook)Univ. of Minnesota Libraries, 2016. "An introductory text in mass communication" organized into 16 chapters. Peer reviews of the site available on this site. Online, digital PDF, and print PDF formats. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons - Attribution - NonCommercial - ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Information Strategies for Communicators (OER textbook)Kathleen A. Hansen and Nora Paul, Univ. of Minnesota, 2015. "The definitive text for the information search and evaluation process as practiced by news and strategic communication message producers." Organized into 16 chapters. Online, digital PDF, print PDF, and editable OpenDocument formats. CC BY (Creative Commons Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Media Innovation and Entrepreneurship (OER textbook)Edited by Michelle Ferrier & Elizabeth Mays, Rebus Community, published 2017, updated 2020. This is a modular open textbook designed for entrepreneurial journalism, media innovation, and related courses. Includes business-related chapters, like "Developing the Entrepreneurial Mindset," "Customer Discovery," and "Business Models for Content & Technology Ventures." Integrates "from the field" case studies and exercises. PDF, online, EPUB, and editable OpenDocument formats. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- Digital Media Workbook (OER ancillary materials)Joycelyn Streator, University System of Georgia, 2020. "The Digital Media Workbook provides media-rich review questions for fundamental digital media concepts. It’s recommended that students use the Interactive Workbook to review concepts from lectures or readings and assess their mastery." Instructor's guide in PDF format. Workbook available as Canvas course, complete with assessments and reviews. CC BY (Creative Commons - Attribution) license.
- Be Credible: Information Literacy for Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising and Marketing Students (OER textbook)Peter Bobkowski and Karna Younger, Kansas State Univ., 2nd ed., 2018. "Using the themes of credibility and information literacy, the book helps today’s students, who start out all their research with Google and Wikipedia, to specialize in accessing, evaluating, and managing information that often is not accessible through Google searches. The book includes chapters on public records, freedom of information requests, nonprofit organizations, for-profit companies, scholarly research, public data, interviews and more. Through current examples, instructional videos, suggested classroom activities, and practitioner insights, the authors challenge students to examine the credibility of the sources they use as current and future professional communicators." Online (Pressbooks) format. CC BY NC (Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
- Media Literacy - Crash Course video playlistCrash Course video series of 12 videos (each video around 10 mins.) with innovative graphics, last updated 2020. Includes videos on: history of media literacy, media influence & persuasion, online advertising, the darker side of media, and more. Crash Course videos are high-quality, with a mix of live-action and animated graphics.
Related OER subject guides:
For OER and library resources on health care writing, please explore the Writing OER subject guide, linked below and then click on the "Health care writing" sub-tab:
Textbooks, courses, and readers:
- COM 2403ID Health Communication (OER course)David Lee, NYC College of Technology. "“The interdisciplinary study and practice of communication in healthcare and public health. Topics include provider-patient interaction, team communication, and the diffusion of health information through public health campaigns. Students practice clear, purposeful and compassionate communication across multiple channels, to reduce errors and improve healthcare delivery.” Menu includes Readings, Assignments, and Syllabus. Readings are mostly open access readings and organized into themed weeks (e.g. Week 3: Patient/Provider Communication; Week 8: Health and the Media; Week 10: Health Campaigns). Eligible for Print on Demand, if materials are converted into a print-ready format.
- Healthcare Business Communication for Success (OER textbook)Saylor Academy. Adapted from Saylor’s “Business Communication for Success” OER textbook. Online format. CC BY NC SA (Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike) license. Eligible for Print on Demand.
Library e-books:
Unlimited user access. To access these library e-books, user the same username and password used to log into the portal. Use permalinks for e-book chapters or pages. Publisher sets "fair use" limits for page/chapter downloads. Library e-books are not eligible for Print on Demand services.
Health Communication: From Theory to PracticeCall Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2014“[A] comprehensive introduction to theory, intervention design, current issues, and special topics in health communication. The book also represents a hands-on guide to program development, implementation, and evaluation. This second edition further emphasizes the importance of a people-centered and participatory approach to health communication interventions, which takes into account key social determinants of health as well as the interconnection of various health and social fields.” Includes case studies. Online and PDF downloads for each chapter.
Communication for healthcare professionals: An applied approach by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2016"Promotes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of health communication." Online, PDF, and EPUB formats
Communication case studies for health care professionals by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2014“This casebook/workbook helps students, faculty, and health care providers to assess and practice key interpersonal and health communication skills. It presents 45 communication scenarios for students to critique and rewrite in order to enhance the interpersonal relationships of participants.” Online and PDF downloads for each chapter.
Effective health communication for sustainable development by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2016“The book is not oriented towards one population in particular; rather it is directed towards multiple groups, mainly to students of the health sciences and medical professionals interested in communicating with migrants and visitors, and those who have to work in multicultural settings. [...] it represents an excellent resource for mediators, interpreters and translators who want to learn more about communication in healthcare settings.” Online and PDF downloads for each chapter.
Exploring health communication: Language in actionCall Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2012"[B]rings together many of the various linguistic strands in health communication, while maintaining an interdisciplinary focus on method and theory. It critically explores and discusses a number of underlying themes that constitute the broad field of health communication including spoken, written and electronic health communication." Online and PDF downloads for each chapter.
Health, communication and multicultural communities: Topics on intercultural communication for healthcare professionals by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2014“The book is not oriented towards one population in particular; rather it is directed towards multiple groups, mainly to students of the health sciences and medical professionals interested in communicating with migrants and visitors, and those who have to work in multicultural settings. [...] it represents an excellent resource for mediators, interpreters and translators who want to learn more about communication in healthcare settings.” Online and PDF downloads for each chapter.
Encyclopedia of health communication by Call Number: OnlinePublication Date: 2014Reference encyclopedia. "Provides comprehensive coverage of health communication including such topics as theories and research traditions; evaluation and assessment; cultural complexities; high risk and special populations; message design and campaigns; provider/patient interaction issues; media issues; and more.” Online + PDF downloads of specific articles/entries.
Supplemental tools and materials (incl. games, lessons, videos, exercises, etc.):
- COMM1001/CASD1205: Communicating for the Public Good – Health Communication (libguide)Brooklyn College libguide, last updated 2021. This LibGuide pulls together different videos, readings, and documents on different aspects of health communication, which are included as sub-tabs. Open access materials.
- Health Communication and Health Information Technology (OER module)The Community Guide. “[A] resource to help you select interventions to improve health and prevent disease in your state, community, community organization, business, healthcare organization, or school.” Organized into Task Force Findings, Summary Table, and Presentations and Promotional Materials, with real-life examples of health campaigns. Most resources are in PDF format. Public domain. Eligible for Print on Demand.
The Culturally Responsive and Inclusive Pedagogy OER Subject Guide, linked below, provides a starting point for OER professional development and curricular materials relating to issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion; trauma-informed practices; and culturally responsive, inclusive, and anti-racist pedagogy and practices. This guide includes concepts and keywords; TCC OEDI resources; introductory and more in-depth professional development resources (toolkits, guides, etc.); curriculum resources (activities, assignments, etc.); OER and EDI rubrics; instructional design; accessibility; as well as EDI-focused OER in different disciplines across the curriculum, including Communication Studies.
Please fill out this form to add to this OER subject guide:
- Contribution form for TCC Library's OER subject guidesThis form is for TCC faculty and staff. Use this form to add suggestions, improvements, and personal recommendations or tips for specific resources. Thank you for contributing to and improving this OER subject guide!
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If you leave recommendations or feedback about specific resources on this guide, then these personalized TCC comments will then be added in "more..." drop-down links below the specific resource(s).
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Your OER and liaison librarian
Jennifer Snoek-Brown
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Contact:
Email: jsnoek-brown@tacomacc.edu (the fastest way to contact me)
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Office: Bldg 7, Library (please wear a face mask)
Phone: 253.460.3936 (forwards to my email)
Book an appointment Click the "book now" button above to book a personal appointment with me via Zoom.
Attributions
Except where otherwise noted, the content in this guide was compiled by Jennifer Snoek-Brown, Tacoma Community College Library, and is licensed under a CC BY SA 4.0 license.
Except where otherwise noted, the content in these guides by Tacoma Community College Library is licensed under CC BY SA 4.0.
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