Communication : Making Connections

by Seiler, William J.; Beall, Melissa L.

• ISBN13: 9780205493340
• ISBN10: 0205493343
• Edition: 7th
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2007-02-06
• Publisher: Pearson

Summary

This popular, comprehensive introduction to speech communication skillfully blends theory, current research and skills, while emphasizing the connections between communication and our daily lives.   Unique in its integrated ;connections ; theme and streamlined pedagogy, this book introduces the basic principles of public speaking, interpersonal communication and group communication. The constant application of a solid theoretical foundation to everyday communication through relevant examples, thought-provoking questions and boxed features stress Communication Competence.   New and strengthened pedagogy highlights and reinforces the ;connections ; theme throughout the book, demonstrating how communication connects us to each other in a variety of contexts:  the workplace, family, friends, community, school, public communication settings, the Internet and across cultures.

Table of Contents

Making Connections Through Communication

Connecting Process and Principles

What Is Communication?

Why Should We Study Communication?

Principles of Communication

Essential Components of Communication

Types of Communication

Misconceptions about Communication

Improving Communication Competence

Connecting Perceptions and Communication

Understanding Perception

The Perception Process

Perceptional Differences

Improving Perception Competencies

Connecting Self and Communication

Self-Concept and Its Connection to Communication

Improving the Self Concept

Connecting Through Verbal Communication

The Importance of Language

The Elements of Language

Language-Based Barriers to Communication

How to Use Language More Effectively

Connecting Through Nonverbal Communication

Characteristics of Nonverbal Communication

Types of Nonverbal Communication

Functions of Nonverbal Communication

Interpreting Nonverbal Communication

Connecting Listening and Thinking in the Communication Process

The Importance of Effective Listening

Listening and Hearing: Is There a Difference?

Stages of Effective Listening

The Functions of Listening

Barriers to Effective Listening

Critical Listening and Critical Thinking: Analyzing and Evaluating Messages

Improving Listening Competence

Listening and Technology

Connecting in The Public Context

Selecting a Topic and Relating to the Audience

Selecting a Speech Topic

Determining the General Purpose, Specific Purpose, and Thesis of a Speech

Relating to the Audience

Gathering and Using Information

Gathering Information

Suggestions for Doing Research

Using Research to Support and Clarify Ideas

Organizing and Outlining Your Speech

Organizing the Body of Your Speech

Organizing the Introduction of Your Speech

Organizing the Conclusion of Your Speech

Outlining Your Speech

Managing Anxiety and Delivering Your Speech

Qualities of Effective Speakers

Managing Speech Anxiety

Methods of Delivery

Vocal and Physical Aspects of Delivery

Visual or Presentational Aids

Polishing Your Delivery

Informative Speaking

Information and Power

Distinctions between Informative and Persuasive Speaking

Topics for Informative Speeches

Preparing and Developing an Informative Speech

Evaluating the Informative Speech

A Sample Informative Speech With Commentary

Persuasive Speaking

The Goal of Persuasive Speaking

Topics for Persuasive Speeches

Persuasive Claims

Establishing Credibility

Becoming Effective Consumers of Persuasion

Preparing and Developing a Persuasive Speech

Fallacies in Argument Development

Evaluating the Persuasive Speech

A Sample Persuasive Speech with Commentary

Connecting in Relational Contexts

Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal Communication

The Motivation to Communicate and Form Relationships

Relationships: Getting to Know Others and Getting to Know Ourselves

Self-Disclosure in Relationships

Developing Relationships

Forming and Dissolving Relationships

Interpersonal Conflict

Improving Communication in Relationships

Group and Team Communication

Small Group Communication: Making the Connection

What Is a Group?

Group Formation: Why Do People Join Groups?

Purposes of Small Group Communication

Project or Work Teams

Characteristics of Small Groups

Gender Differences in Group Communication

Ethical Behavior

Technology and Groups

Participating in Groups and Teams

Team Building Leadership

Member Participation

Conducting a Meeting

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Managing Group Conflict

Evaluating Small Group Performance

Appendix: Employment Interviewing: Preparing for Your Future

Preparing for Job Hunting

Career Research on the Internet

Choosing a Career

Qualities Employers Seek

Preparation for an Interview

The Interview

Factors Leading to Rejection

Factors Leading to Job Offers

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.