About Speech Communication
For 2500 years, the discipline of speech communication has functioned as an integral part of the humanities and the performing arts. Since about 1900, speech communication has also identified with important developments in the emerging social-behavioral sciences. Today, academic programs in speech communication are "interdisciplinary" in nature; they are based on knowledge that has evolved out of the humanities, the performing arts, and the social-behavioral sciences. This knowledge focuses on human communication "processes," "cultural practices," and "ethical and aesthetic preferences."
The academic program in speech communication at the University of Nevada, Reno, emphasizes training in oral communication skills and the cognitive principles and strategies that support them. The refinement of communication skills in public, interpersonal, small group, and organizational contexts is central to both personal and professional growth. It is expected that over the course of their lives, most speech communication majors will adapt to fast-moving changes in our business and professional communities. Basic and advanced communication competencies are central to existing as well as future vocational opportunities.
Communication training can also contribute to one's responsible and effective participation in important community activities. In recent years we have seen an increase in the use of inconsiderate and dysfunctional communication practices and a corresponding decrease in more reflective, cooperative ones. The refinement of communication skills and concepts as well as the development of standards of ethical and thoughtful communication can contribute significantly to the building of a more mutually responsible community and a more civil and humane world.
