The differential impact of a basic communication course on perceived communication competencies in class, work, and social contexts

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of a basic speech communication course on students’ perceptions of their communication competencies in class, work, and social settings. Analyses of pre‐ and post‐survey data obtained from students enrolled in a basic course indicated that the course had a differential impact based on communication context. While results showed perceived improvements for all three contexts, the improvements were significantly greater for the class context than for the work or social contexts. The differential impact of the course was found for perceived competencies related to public speaking, interpersonal communication, group communication, interviewing, and self‐confidence. Implications of the findings are discussed.