This text provides a concise and in-depth look at the elements that comprise all basic forms of human communication. With an emphasis on Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Small Group Communication, the text alsoexplores key issues and topics in interviewing, organizational communication, and the mass media. Cultural and gender issues are covered in depth. The text also focuses on learning through technology, and the nature and effects of new technologies on human communication. Public speaking is covered in depth (5 full units are devoted to public speaking) to provide readers with the skills for informative and persuasive speaking. Four additional units Emotional Communication, The Special Occasion Speech, Criticism in the Classroom, and Mass Media enable instructors to cover topics that are not always offered in other texts. For anyone interested in improving and understanding key issues of human communication.