Northern Illinois University
Department of Communication
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Location: DuSable 259

Open Hours

Monday- Thursday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (beginning week 3, ending after week 14)

Book an Appointment

Description

The COMS 100 Skills Lab is a dedicated space designed to help students enhance their public speaking skills through personalized coaching and practice sessions. The lab offers one-on-one consultations and practice opportunities in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. COMS 100 students can work on various aspects of public speaking, including topic development, organization, research, delivery techniques and overcoming speech anxiety. The lab is staffed by experienced coaches and peer mentors.

Requirements

All COMS 100 students must complete at least one lab session during the semester. Participants in the CHANCE program must complete one session per speech. Lab coaches will verify and report lab attendance to COMS 100 instructors.

Booking Appointments in The Lab

You may book lab sessions online. You’ll receive an email confirmation once you book a session, as will the lab coach. Please note: the online coaching sessions are only for students enrolled in an online section of COMS 100.

Sessions generally last twenty minutes but are booked in thirty-minute intervals. You may choose to meet with a specific coach or choose a time that’s convenient for you and be assigned to a coach who is available at that time.

Walk-in Appointments

Lab coaches will be available for walk-in appointments if they do not have scheduled appointments.

Guidelines for Using the COMS Skills Lab

• Arrive on time for your scheduled session.
• If you cannot attend a session, please cancel or reschedule it on the bookings website. If you miss three appointments, you will not be allowed to schedule another appointment.
• Come prepared with specific questions or topics you need help with. Have a plan and a goal for what you want to accomplish in your lab session.
• The lab is equipped with computers, but you may bring a laptop to work on. Make sure you know how to access your instructor’s assignments and feedback on your previous speeches.
• To make the most of the one-on-one time with your coach, actively participate in the lab session and ask questions when necessary.
• Treat your lab coach with respect and courtesy.
• If you want to provide feedback about your lab experience or report a concern about the lab, please email contactcoms100@niu.edu.