New and Updated Course Descriptions

SPC 142 - Public Speaking

3 Credits

Public Speaking is centered on the principles and practices of civic discourse—reasoned, ethical, and respectful communication about issues of public concern. The course emphasizes the development of ideas, evidence, and reasoning that inform effective oral communication in civic, academic, and professional contexts. Students learn to apply diverse perspectives to public ideas though meaningful civic discourse. Through research, writing, and delivery of original speeches, students apply principles of organization, clarity, rhetorical strategy, and audience awareness to topics of civic relevance. Emphasis is placed on research-based argumentation, ethical use of evidence, and the role of public speaking in shaping civic dialogue. Students learn to analyze and evaluate public messages, construct well-supported arguments, and deliver speeches that demonstrate audience awareness and deliberative intent. When speaking, students develop effective vocal and physical delivery techniques to enhance credibility and engagement while meeting established time and deadline expectations. By the end of the course, students will understand public speaking not only as a performance skill, but as a form of civic participation and public responsibility.

New SUNY General Education:
SUNY - Civic Discourse Competency
SUNY - Humanities

MCC General Education: MCC-AH - Arts and Humanities (MAH)

Course Learning Outcomes
1.Apply strategies to manage communication apprehension in order to participate confidently in public discourse.
2.Develop clear, organized, and audience-centered speeches for a variety of civic and public contexts.
3.Construct research-based arguments that incorporate credible sources and multiple perspectives.
4.Apply rhetorical principles to analyze and develop speeches that constructively contribute to civic discourse tailored to the specific purpose and audience.
5.Evaluate public speeches for effectiveness in terms of ethical reasoning, rhetorical strategy and engaging civic discourse providing constructive feedback.
6.Demonstrate ethical communication practices, including accurate representation of evidence, responsible advocacy and respect for diverse viewpoints.
7.Adapt verbal and nonverbal delivery techniques to enhance clarity, credibility, and audience engagement.
8.Deliver informative, persuasive, and impromptu speeches within established time parameters.
9.Reflect on personal growth as a contributor to civic dialog and the role of civic discourse in a public forum.
10.Engage in public speaking as a form of civic participation by articulating informed positions on relevant issues.

Course Offered Fall, Spring