In many environments, your ability to "decode" physical, spatial, and symbolic discourses is critical to personal and group success. Yet, all too frequently, laypersons (and some communication scholars) have defined the arena of nonverbal communication (NVC) as "merely body language." To be sure, previous attempts to teach that some over-arching theory could be used to understand the NVC of all persons in all contexts have earned a fair amount of scorn. Nonetheless, it is essential to consider the range of communicative practices that augment, and occasionally contradict, our verbal messages.

Our class will consider NVC as a discursive cultural practice that is (mostly) learned, even while we discuss certain behaviors that appear to be innate. Rather than provide a primer to "read" other people, we will consider the intersecting influences of our non-verbal messages in various contexts - from the body to arenas such as home and family, school and work, society and culture. Even though "universal laws" will not emerge from our studies, you are sure to achieve a far more sophisticated understanding of other peoples' NVC - an understanding that will provide a host of formal and informal benefits.

Success in the class follows your willingness to share your real-world experiences with your colleagues and adapt theoretical concepts raised in our discussions to the challenges and opportunities you face everyday. In short, don't come to class with the intention of taking notes only; this kind of intellectual environment will demand your active involvement.

Course Objectives:

Successful conclusion of this course means that you can:

• Demonstrate through oral and written examination your understanding of various concepts related to NVC, their philosophical orientations, real-world applications, and practical limitations.

• Identify the role of NVC in the formation and management of identity and its use in relationship management and deception.

• Analyze spatial and temporal manifestations of NVC in contexts ranging from the home, through the city, to sacred and fluid locales.

• Evaluate the potential for NVC theories to offer insight into traditional and "new" electronic media.