An Introduction to Human Communication

Helps students understand the roles and skills essential to communicating effectively in today’s environment. Providing a fresh approach to both contemporary and traditional communication topics, this text is divided into three parts: Foundations of Communication; Interpersonal and Small Group Communication; and Public Speaking. An Introduction to Human Communication: Communicate, Connect, Collaborate helps students understand the roles and skills essential to communicating effectively in today's environment. Providing a fresh approach to both contemporary and traditional communication topics, this text is divided into three parts: Foundations of Communication; Interpersonal and Small Group Communication; and Public Speaking. The authors use a model of communication that integrates networked digital media, addresses cultural differences and diversity, incorporates examples from popular culture and current events, and offers sound pedagogy based on their extensive teaching and research experience. The lines between interpersonal, small group, organizational, public, and mass communication have blurred as people routinely share their thoughts and ideas with others via social networking platforms, blogs, messaging apps, texts, and emails. These ways of connecting have altered how individuals think about communication, enact relationships, and inform and persuade each other. In recognizing communicators as active message producers rather than passive message consumers, this text empowers students to successfully negotiate their agency and identity across communication contexts. This is the ideal textbook for introduction to human communication courses, helping students gain the fundamental knowledge and tools necessary for our increasingly complex world.