Interpersonal Communication: Context and Connection

Reviewed by Karen Pleasant, Humanities Instructor, Rogue Community College on 1/18/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

The textbook covers all of the topics inherent in a well-conducted interpersonal communication class. Topics over 12 chapters range from the basics to verbal and nonverbal communication, listening and emotions, communication climate & conflicts, building and maintaining relationships, the dark side of communication, and ends with interpersonal communication in the workplace.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

The 15 communication faculty members who worked on the book did a great job covering topics accurately and in an up-to-date fashion.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The text is written in a very timely manner and one that student's can readily relate to for many years to come. It discusses the use of gender pronouns, idioms, love languages, and other aspects of communication that are relevant to current students. The authors also acknowledge the pandemic and virtual environment and how they have impacted communication.

Clarity rating: 5

All terms are defined, as they are introduced, in understandable ways and with examples that further clarity. A glossary is also available.

Consistency rating: 5

The textbook is well organized and flows easily from one chapter to the next. It builds on concepts as students progress through the book.

Modularity rating: 5

The chapters and sections within the chapters are modular in nature and could be easily modified or rearranged.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The book flows well from basic communication concepts to more refined topics. I like the way each chapter starts with learning objectives, includes discussion questions and journal prompts. reflection opportunities and activities, and ends with a chapter summary. The use of breakout boxes adds to the learning connections as well.

Interface rating: 5

The images and tables used within the textbook are easy to understand and reinforce the concepts being taught. The textbook is easy to navigate and is readily divided by chapters and sections that make it easy to find the desired materials.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No grammatical errors were noticed.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The authors did an excellent job scattering cultural information throughout the book. It is apparent that they focused on using principles of universal design and were guided by equity, diversity, and inclusion principles as well. This is reflected in the content as well as in the chosen images and charts. I prefer cultural information to be discussed throughout the book as is done here versus my current text where it is presented mainly in one chapter.

The textbook is well-done and covers all of the material presented in the current purchasable textbook that I use for my Interpersonal Communication class. I have found the OER textbook I've been searching for and will work on switching to this textbook. I think students will relate well to the book and enjoy reading it. You can tell that the co-authors focused on the acronym LOVE: lifelong learning, open education, virtual learning, and equity.