Updated in this 2nd edition, The Basics of Communication Studies, introduces students to human communication in a clear, concise, and engaging way. It presents the “nuts and bolts” of human communication without excessive detail, delivering the necessary material on communication without being overwhelming or cost-prohibitive.

Table of Contents:
Most chapters begin with “Introductory Exercises” and conclude with “Summary,” “For More Information,” “Review Questions,” and “Works Cited.” 1. Why Study Communication? Definition of Communication Models of Communication Essential Parts of Communication Communication in Context Principles of Communication 2. Perception and Listening Introductory Exercises Why Don't We All See Things the Same Way? Perception and Awareness Perceptual Differences Self-Concept Eyes, Ears, Heart Importance of Listening Kinds of Listening Barriers to Listening Improving Listening Skills 3. Verbal Communication What Is Language? Principles of Verbal Communication Language as an Obstacle to Communication Barriers to Communication Improving Verbal Communication 4. Nonverbal Communication What is Nonverbal Communication? Principles of Nonverbal Communication Types of Nonverbal Communication Improving Your Understanding 5. Intercultural Communication Definition of Intercultural Communication Characteristics of Intercultural Communication Barriers to Intercultural Communication Improving Intercultural Communication 6. Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Communication. What Is Intrapersonal Communication? Maslow's Hierarchy Schutz's Interpersonal Needs Johari Window Social Penetration Theory Coming Together Growing Apart Improving Interpersonal Communication 7. Group Communication. Types of Groups How Groups Meet Our Basic Needs How Many Members Does it Take to Make a Group? Groups Play By Their Own Rules Problem-Solving in Groups How Do Groups Develop? Lifecycles of Groups Why Do People Stay in a Group? Group Members Have Roles to Play When Groups Come Together via Computers Group Members as Leaders 8. Communication at Work What Do You Know Already? What Do You Need to Know? Making Contact You've Got the Invitation to Interview! Effective Communication in Teams and Groups Effective Communication in Meetings Effective Communication in Virtual Meetings 9. Mass Communication What Is Mass Communication? Types of Mass Communication Functions of Mass Communication Effects of Mass Communication Critical Analysis of Mass Communication 10. Speech Preparation     How to Choose a Topic Getting to Know Your Audience Conducting Research The Five Parts of any Speech Constructing the Introduction, Conclusion, and Effective Transitions 17 Organizational Patterns for your Speech The Speech to Inform Sample Outline: The Informative Speech The Speech to Persuade Sample Outline: The Persuasive Speech Persuasive Arguments Fallacies in Reasoning Ethics in Communication 11. Speech Presentation What Makes for a “Good Delivery?” Speaking Effectively Speech Anxiety Nonverbal Communication and Delivery Umms, Ahhs, and Other Speech Disfluencies Effective Notecards and Other Useful Tools Effective Eye Contact Visual Aids: Purpose, Emphasis, Support, and Clarity Types of Visual Aids Methods and Materials Preparing Visual Aids Using Visual Aids Effective PowerPoint Presentations Index