Essential Communication

Essential Communication, 4th Edition bridges the gap between the concepts and theory that instructors want and need their students to learn and the skills that students want to know and practice. As students read, they are shown how to enhance knowledge and skill through Ask Yourself self quizzes, Pause to Reflect questions, Tips & Reminders, and Putting it All Together end-of-chapter application exercises that invite them to apply what they are learning to real-life situations. All this skills-based information is informed by the most up-to-date research in communication and readily assignable through Oxford Insight.

With Essential Communication, 4th Edition, everything is essential, and nothing is extra. Each chapter breaks down the concepts in a concise, digestible manner. With Oxford Insight, videos showcase communication strategies and activities invite students to practice, apply, and reflect on strategies from the reading. The result is an unconventional, interactive experience providing deeper levels of learning than a traditional text.

Every element of Essential Communication, 4th Edition is designed to make students better communicators-online, in person, at home, and at work. Through tips, activities, and reflections, students will be prepared to build and sustain strong relationships, navigate group and career dynamics, and be prepared for future public speaking engagements. For instructors looking to provide their students with deep-level active learning, constant application, and skill improvement, this is the essential introduction to communication.

Author: Ronald B. Adler,George Rodman,Athena Du Pré
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Published: 11/14/2025
Pages: 366
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 2.14lbs
Size: 10.77h x 8.51w x 0.70d
ISBN: 9780197757314

About the Author
Ronald B. Adler is Professor of Communication, Emeritus, at Santa Barbara City College.

George Rodman is Professor in the Department of Television and Radio at Brooklyn College, City University.

Athena du Pré is a Distinguished University Professor of Communication at the University of West Florida.

Barbara Cook Overton is affiliated with Louisiana State University.