Communication and Society
Are you interested in learning how you can make a positive impact on the world through your future career? This course is focused on developing communication skills pertaining to important topics impacting all professions. Topics include gender, race, culture, diversity and inclusivity. Interpersonal communication on complex topics, dealing with conflict, and the development, maintenance and termination of personal and professional relationships will be discussed. Through writing assignments, class discussions and a final group presentation, students will explore and engage with concepts that encourage critical thinking about identities and a vision for a more compassionate, equitable and less harmful world.
Communication is one of the most popular majors in the U.S., learn more here.
Learn more about a minor in Women's Gender & Queer Studies and career path here.
Learning Outcomes in this course
Develop the ability to critically analyze social norms and news articles, assessing their impact on society and understanding underlying biases.
Study the history of social movements related to gender, sexuality and race.
Cultivate strong public speaking skills to effectively articulate ideas, engage audiences and build confidence in presentations.
Master argumentative writing and support claims with strong evidence.
Learn strategies for thoughtfully and effectively communicating about controversial topics, fostering constructive dialogue and understanding.
When
Session Two
July 20 - August 1, 2025
Tuition
On-Campus Residential
$5,298 USD
Commuter
$2,998 USD
Proposed Activities
Students will meet with professionals on and off campus to learn about jobs in equity and education.
Students will meet with professionals on and off campus to learn about jobs in health and wellness.
Instructor
Dr. Christina Kaviani, Instructor at Cal Poly SLO
Dr. Christina Kaviani is a lecturer in the Departments of Communications and of Women's, Gender & Queer Studies (WGQS) at Cal Poly SLO and has over a decade of experience in the field of gender-based violence prevention education and response. She currently teaches theories, approaches, and debates on gender and violence, with an emphasis on the complex intersections of sexuality with race, ethnicity, class, nation, age, religion, and/or able-bodiedness. She has a PhD in Philosophy from the Fielding Graduate University, her Masters of Arts in Student Counseling and Personnel Services is from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and she holds her Bachelor's degree from UC Santa Cruz in Sociology.
