Teaching Objectives、Teaching Requirements、Teaching Contents：

Frontiers in Communication Theory considers various theoretical perspectives on communication processes. In this course, we will examine the foundation of theoretical inquiry (including the nature and development of theory), selected approaches to theorizing, applications of theory, and ethical implications of theory in a number of communication contexts. The primary objectives of this course are to (a) explicate the nature of theory in general and of communication theory in particular, (b) trace the development of theoretical inquiry in the field of communication, (c) evaluate the utility of theory by applying specific criteria and standards, (d) distinguish among metatheoretical assumptions and various approaches to communication theory, (e) examine communication processes in a variety of contexts, (f) apply communication theory in the development of an original research project, and (g) hone individual writing skills.

Text Book(s) and Reference Materials：

1. Griffin, E. (2012). A first look at communication theory (8th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.

2. American Psychological Association. (2010). Publication manual of the American Psychological Association (6th ed.). Washington, DC: Author.

3. Additional readings will be available electronically on the Blackboard website for the course.

Credits：2