 Hi there. My name is Ryan Guy, and if you're watching this video, you are interested in taking my fully online fundamentals of public speaking course. In the past, this was a class that was only offered in a face-to-face modality. However, recent improvements in technology have made it possible for us to offer the public speaking class in a fully online format. This presents an opportunity for folks to practice and improve their public speaking skills without the need to physically come to campus. As you consider taking this class, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. First, as you may have noticed on Pirates Net, there are no listed meet times for this course. This class is fully asynchronous. All of the readings, lectures, activities, and assignments are built into weekly modules that you will complete on our campus learning management system, Canvas. You'll still have ample opportunities to connect and work with fellow classmates, but a bit more flexibility without the burden of having to show up on campus or log in to Zoom at a set time. Second, while the class takes place virtually, it's still important to know that you will be required to give speeches in front of other people. For years, we've been unable to offer this class in a completely online modality because our curriculum and accreditation rules required speeches to be given in a physical setting in front of a physical live audience. Shortly before the start of the pandemic, the CSU system provided some new guidelines that allowed virtual live audiences to count. As a result, a whole new set of options for how to give speeches online or made available. In this class, you can choose to meet with a small group of your classmates over Zoom, attend scheduled speech week Zoom sessions hosted by your professor, or even recruit an in-person audience to watch you give your speech in a physical setting. If taking a class in this format sounds up your alley, then I encourage you to register for the course. The study and practice of public speaking can be very empowering. Learning the skills to literally find and amplify your voice has a multitude of both personal and professional benefits. This course does not have a textbook that you need to buy. All of the readings and lectures come in the form of free open educational resources. You'll be able to access everything you need via our class canvas page. You will need access to a computer and a webcam to complete class activities. If you lack access to the technology, the library has materials that you can check out, and even some conference spaces that you can book to give Zoom speeches in. The only basic supplies I suggest you pick up are a pack of 3 inch by 5 inch note cards. Well, that is the Calm 100 course in a nutshell. If you have any questions about it, feel free to send me an email. Thanks for watching this video and considering the course.