CJS20020/CJS2002 - Introduction to Law Enforcement Communication

(3 units)

Effective verbal and written communication lies at the very foundation of success inside the criminal justice system. This course will provide an overview of those written and oral skills expected of the student in order to properly communicate within this realm. The framework for this course will provide a series of classes to help the student prepare to appropriately outline, draft, and complete written work that will effectively communicate the type of fact based narrative necessary to convey thoughts, ideas, and actions. The student will be exposed to concepts such as point of view, tense, tempo, and voice. Students will examine ways to craft language to break down complex thoughts or actions in a progressive manner that can be used to replicate a situation or support a position. In addition, students will get instruction on proper methods of source citation and narrative quotation. They will examine ways to write using language specific to a type of content, for example, fact based reporting requiring elements of criminal action or behavior. Students will further engage in presentations designed to help them transfer these written skills into verbal presentations.