Examines music as a form of communication distinct from traditional verbal and nonverbal forms, and considers how our relationship with music shapes and reflects our social, emotional, or cognitive states and identities. Takes a social scientific approach to this domain with detours into some less empirical areas such as how we ascribe meaning to music, and the sociopolitical impact that music may have. Not a music skills or appreciation class.

Prerequisites: Not open to Freshmen.

4

Units

Optional

Grading

1, 2, 3

Passtime

Not open to freshmen

Level Limit

Letters and science

College
These majors only comm intst
ABRA G J
Gordon Abra
3.8
94 reviews
AI predicted, based on past grading trends of the course and instructor, class info, and 127 other factors
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Spring 2024 . Abra G J
PHELP1260
T R
08:00 AM - 09:15 AM
Summer 2024 . Abra G J
TD-W 2600
M T W
09:30 AM - 12:20 PM
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COMM 179 Abra G J Winter 2026 Total: 86
COMM 179 Abra G J Fall 2025 Total: 74
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94
3.8
COMM179 . Abra G J 20 Days Ago

no study guide for tests. only short answer. don't take if u want an easy A

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COMM179 . Abra G J A Month Ago

Love the course, but dislike his tests. Very passionate and his lectures are always interesting/engaging! All tests are short answer. If you are looking for an easy A, this isn't for you. Be prepared for a lot of studying, reading, and taking detailed notes during lecture.

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COMM179 . Abra G J 2 Months Ago

no slides so you have to show up to lecture to know the material. if ur sick and miss a class good luck. tests are all short answer (answers could be one word, idk why it's not multiple choice at that point) and the questions are so vague or so weirdly specific. he rambles so it's hard to tell what's actually important. seems passionate tho

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COMM179 . Abra G J 3 Months Ago

I really enjoyed this class, one of my favorites at UCSB. Do the readings and attend lecture though not required, and youre fine

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COMM179 . Abra G J 4 Months Ago

This is my absolute favorite course I've taken at UCSB. Lectures are fantastic, but you do need to take detailed notes. There are no lecture slides and lectures are unrelated to the readings. Readings are fairly dense, but if you pace yourself and don't procrastinate you'll be fine. Do not squander the opportunity to take this class.

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COMM179 . Abra G J 4 Months Ago

Be prepared to grind. There's a ton of reading, and he doesn't post his lectures, so you pretty much have to show up to every class if you want to keep up. As long as you stay on top of the work, it's definitely worth it and you'll get a lot out of it. He's super charismatic and makes the lectures actually interesting.

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See all 94 reviews
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