Date Approved
5-10-2007
Embargo Period
3-28-2016
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. in Higher Education Administration
Department
Educational Services and Leadership
College
College of Education
Advisor
Sisco, Burton R.
Subject(s)
College teaching; Public speaking
Disciplines
Higher Education Administration
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to understand how Rowan University public speaking professors blend the teaching of communication theory and performance skills in their classroom lectures. The researcher conducted one-on-one interviews and classroom observations of public speaking professors at Rowan. Five professors participated in the process. Each professor was asked open-ended questions which were created by the researcher to determine the specific methods used to impart knowledge about communication theory and performance skills. A classroom observation was conducted to provide confirmation and further elaboration of the information gathered from the interviews.
The study uncovered each professor's feelings and attitudes regarding the teaching of communication theory and performance skills in a public speaking class. Professors with doctoral degrees tended to have a greater understanding and appreciation for communication theory. Most professors viewed the content of the speech as more important than performance skills.
Recommended Citation
Ellison, Renai, "Communication theory vs. performance skills: how do Rowan public speaking professors weave both into class lectures?" (2007). Theses and Dissertations. 784.
https://rdw.rowan.edu/etd/784
