COMM 311 - Argumentation and Debate

Recent Professors: Jared A. Anderson, Alexandra R. Boyd, Kaitlyn R. Carpenter, Mark R. Espinosa III, Banafshae Khan, Jasmine Williams, Ernest Stromberg, David Eric O. Fabionar
Recent Semesters: Fall 2026, Spring 2026, Fall 2025, Spring 2025
Class Size: Not published
Credits: 3
Prerequisite: ENGL C1000, ENGWR 488, or ESLW 340 with a grade of "C" or better; or concurrent enrollment
Fall 2026 Sections: View Fall 2026 sections of COMM 311
Transfers To: UC and CSUIGETC Area 1C · CSU GE Area A1 · CSU GE Area A3
Description: This course provides students with the foundational knowledge of argumentation and debate concepts and theories to successfully dissect and deliver arguments in front of democratic audiences and public speaking settings, and to critically evaluate the arguments of others. The course covers concepts, such as Aristotle's proof of ethos, pathos, and logos, audience analysis, ethics in argumentation, critical listening, and effective verbal and nonverbal practices for effective informative and persuasive arguments. Lastly, the course includes analysis of strong evidence and the process of reasoning needed for effective arguing and presentation of arguments to live audiences.
Usually Held: Mon Wed 10:30am–11:50am, Mon Wed 9:00am–10:20am, Tue Thu 10:30am–11:50am, Tue Thu 1:30pm–4:35pm