Introducing Communication Theory Analysis &_Application

by Richard L. West

This popular text introduces the field of communication to students who may have little or no background in communication theory. Its three overriding goals 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 on their thinking about theory. Each theory chapter follows a consistent format that includes a vignette, an introduction, a summary of assumptions, a description of core concepts, and a critique. This consistency provides continuity for students and ensures a balanced presentation of theories. The Third edition includes the most current communication research available (at the time), with over 100 new references. Additionally, every theory chapter features a new Theory at a Glance box to aid student understanding, as well as Expanded References for further research, and revised Theory Into Practice boxes that incorporate student voices and feedback. The Online Learning Center (www.mhhe.com/west3) provides supplemental resources for students and instructors. Student resources include chapter outlines, study quizzes, crossword puzzles, and internet activities. For instructors, the OLD offers an online Instructor's Resource Manual, PowerPoint slides, and additional teaching resources.

Genres: Communication, College, School

Paperback

First published January 14, 2000

About the author

Richard West is a professor at Emerson College. He has served as president of the National Communication Association (NCA) and the Eastern Communication Association (ECA). He has also chaired or served on over two dozen ECA committees and is a recipient of ECA's Distinguished Service Award as well as being recognized as a Distinguished Research Fellow. He is currently on the Academic Board of Directors for the Global Listening Centre, based in London.

Source

Reviews

[Ally (The Nature of Pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first textbook in a long time that 1) didn't make me cry trying to understand it, 2) actually was SUPER interesting!! and 3) didn't treat the students on the extremes of either insanely smart or absolutely clueless! I'm really glad my comm teacher assigned it!

[Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a text book on communication theory. It's about as fun as it sounds. A bit of a dry read, but has the necessary information on communication theories, processes, and applications in the real world.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Useful, applicable text on various theories and models of communication and their origins, applications, strengths, and shortcomings. Very well organized, very intuitive.

[Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

i deserve to have all these pages marked as read

[Seth Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introductory text, very similar to "A First Look at Communication Theory" by Em Griffin. Nearly identical formats--which isn't bad. Very helpful book. Plenty of good diagrams, plus the occasional Calvin and Hobbes cartoon--how can you not like that?

[Hanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Organized neatly, explains everything, wish there were more applied examples.