Intro to Communication Theory - Softcover

West

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0767430344 ISBN 13: 9780767430340

Publisher: Mayfield Publishing Co ,U.S., 2003

Synopsis

This text introduces the field of communication to students who may have little or no background in communication theory. The three overriding goals of the book are to help students understand the pervasiveness of theory in their lives, to demystify the theoretical process, and to help students become more systematic and critical in their thinking about theory. Chapter by chapter approach allows students to understand one theory at a time, staying focused on one theory before learning another theory.

About this title

From the Publisher

23 theories covered in discrete chapters.
Each theory is presented in a consistent format'vignette, introduction, assumptions, core concepts, and critique'providing continuity for the student and allowing for a more balanced presentation of the theories.
Each chapter begins with an extended example (the vignette) that demonstrates how communication theory plays out in everyday life.
Part I, 'Setting the Stage', defines communication, gives students an understanding of the history of the discipline, covers the basics of what makes theory, and outlines the role that research plays in the development of theories.
The text includes several types of pedagogy, including Theory into Practice (TIP) boxes (i.e., inserts that relate theory to everyday life), research notes (i.e., relevant abstracts from research articles and essays), "discussion starters", "terms for review", and a glossary.
The last part of the book, 'Casting the Future,' provides coverage of the future directions of research in the field and provides information on career opportunities for students considering communication as a major.

About the Author

Richard West is a professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Southern Maine in Portland. He received his B.A. and M.A. from Illinois State University, and his Ph.D. from Ohio University.

Lynn H. Turner is a professor in Communication Studies at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She received her B.A. from the University of Illinois--Chicago, her M.A. from the University of Iowa, and her Ph.D. from Northwestern University.

Edition details

• Publisher: Mayfield Publishing Co ,U.S.
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0767430344
• ISBN 13: 9780767430340
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 2