The third edition of Human Communication is an engaging reflection of the contemporary field of communication studies. The authors’ writing mantra ("Make It Smart; Keep It Real") leads to a text that strikes a practical balance of definitive content and everyday application. To "make it smart," the authors read hundreds of articles from such mainstream communication journals as Communication Education, Communication Monographs, and Communication Studies. To "keep it real," the authors synthesized their findings so that they resonate with the challenges and goals of today's typical basic course. Every chapter features skill-building, critical thinking, innovative pedagogy, 21st century examples, and lively writing that is respectful of the student reader. Human Communication, Third Edition, is also a complete learning package that integrates the text and a variety of media components, including a companion Online Learning Center, a student CD-ROM, and an extensive collection of original videos series.