Introduction to Human Communication: Perception, Meaning, and Identity

Introduction to Human Communication shows how effective communication is central to shared meaning-making, identity construction and maintenance, and responsible interaction with the world. In an inviting and engaging style, Beauchamp and Baran provide the most current and complete survey of the discipline. They cover the basics of communication theory and research with vivid examples while providing practical tools to help students become more thoughtful, confident, and ethical communicators. The text demonstrates the relevance of communication to our everyday lives and invites students to apply what they learn in a broad variety of contexts, including mass communication, organizational communication, health communication, and social media.

Susan R. Beauchamp spent 15 years as a news and public affairs journalist before embarking on a college teaching career. She has carved out a special place for herself at Bryant as a sought-after public speaking coach and teacher and as the founder of the University's annual Public Speaking Colloquium.

Stanley J. Baran is the founding and current Chair of the Department of Communication at Bryant University where his research and teaching specialty is communication theory. He has published ten books, scores of scholarly articles, and sits or has sat on the editorial boards of five journals. His work has been translated into half a dozen languages.