Course Syllabus

This is a course on giving and receiving feedback and constructive criticism. It first takes the student through a range of relevant concepts in interpersonal communication to provide a theoretical backdrop to the practical issue of giving and receiving feedback and constructive criticism. Because this is such a sensitive area of communication, attention is paid to numerous components of communication that lead in to this specific communication exchange. 

Topics include needs of the self and face needs, assertiveness versus hostility, politeness, nonverbal communication, and others. Each of these conceptual topics is discussed in depth prior to a practical discussion specific to the situation of giving and receiving feedback and constructive criticism. 

By the end of this course, the student should be equipped to provide quality, non-offensive feedback and constructive criticism that takes into account the sensitivity of these communication exchanges for the recipient. In this way, the feedback and constructive criticism offered can not only strengthen the target project, but can avoid tension with the feedback and critique recipient. Further, the student should be adequately prepared to receive feedback and constructive criticism, and to see through its sometimes harsh delivery to glean the essence of the message, and apply the gems of advice to improve the target of the feedback and critique. Giving and receiving feedback and constructive criticism can be challenging and very uncomfortable, to say the least. This course demonstrates how the student can turn these sensitive situations into rich, rewarding experiences, whether on the giving or the receiving end of these communication exchanges.