Hi, Ilkomers! Have you ever felt like you’ve explained something over and over, but people still don’t understand or agree with you? That’s exactly where the Persuasive Communication course comes in!
This course doesn’t just teach you how to “convince” others, but also trains you to think strategically, a skill you can apply across different contexts such as politics, culture, and media. Let’s get to know this course better through an explanation from Siti Fatimah Zahrah Fibaeti, M.I.Kom., one of the lecturers for this subject.
What is the purpose of the Persuasive Communication course?
Persuasive Communication is designed as a fundamental yet technical course. Students not only learn theories of persuasion but also how to apply them in broader communication strategies. The main objective is to develop strategic thinking that can be applied to other subjects and professional settings. So, even though it is an introductory course, it already encourages students to think conceptually and practically.
This course also helps students become more sensitive and critical toward surrounding phenomena, whether related to politics, culture, or media. Students are encouraged to understand how persuasive strategies operate in various real-life contexts, allowing them to not only master theories but also analyze actual communication practices.
Are there any changes in this year’s syllabus?
According to Siti, there are no changes in the curriculum or syllabus for this course, either in the regular or IUP (International Undergraduate Program) classes. The only notable difference lies in the language used in class and the assignment results, as IUP students are required to use English.
What’s the teaching method like?
So far, the learning process is more theory-based, while practical sessions are conducted toward the end of the semester. During this stage, students will work on a final project as a form of applying the concepts they have learned throughout the course. This has also been noted as a point of improvement so that the proportion of practical activities can be increased, giving students more opportunities to experiment directly with persuasive strategies. The final project usually takes the form of a mini research that explores real-life persuasive phenomena in society. Therefore, students are expected to be observant and analytical when examining current issues through the lens of Persuasive Communication.
How are students assessed?
Assessment in Persuasive Communication generally focuses on written work, including midterm and final exams. According to Siti, the grade distribution is roughly 60:40. Although written tests dominate, practical assignments still play an important role in evaluating students’ understanding.
What skills are required?
The key to succeeding in this class is critical thinking. Students are expected not only to understand theories but also to apply them. At this level, assessment is no longer about right or wrong answers but about how well students can develop ideas into creative and effective communication strategies.
At first glance, persuasive communication might not seem like a skill that is often used in the workplace. However, it is actually essential in professional settings, especially for those in strategic positions within organizations or companies. In practice, persuading colleagues or supervisors can be even more challenging than influencing an external audience. This is why mastering persuasive strategies is so important.
So, Ilkomers, when connected to the professional world, persuasive communication skills are incredibly valuable. You need to understand and apply persuasive strategies because there will always be situations where you have to convince others whether in presentations, negotiations, or pitching ideas. These skills will also be very useful once you start creating campaigns in the following semesters. So, get ready from now on!
Courses 101 Vol #5