Key Features

• Includes Information about COVID-19
• Emphasizes practicality and competence. The book’s “real world” focus integrates content about communicating in professional contexts throughout. Relevant and concrete examples ensure students immediately see the applicability of what they learn.
• Utilizes a tone that is conversational and stimulates the reader to engage in inner dialogue.
• Emphasizes critical thinking and encourages linking theory to practice.
• Each chapter is structured around supportive learning components.
• “Learning Objectives” organized by main section.
• Key terms highlight important concepts and terminology.
• Four boxed features appear throughout.
  • Getting Real” explains how fundamental concepts have been explored or applied in recent research.
  • “Getting Competent” presents information to help learners develop skills as scholars and practitioners.
  • “Getting Digital” highlights the intersection of communication and technology, including the internet, smartphones, and social media.
  • “Getting Critical” enhances analytical thinking and invites reflection by drawing on examples from current events, politics, and popular culture—often within the context of ethical considerations.
  • Diversity coverage is woven into each chapter, rather than relegated to boxes or sidebars.
  • Includes current topics not consistently covered in other titles, such as communication research methods (Chapter 1), health communication (Chapter 12), and critical approaches in communication (integrated throughout).