Interpersonal Development: 21st Century Skills for the Real & Virtual World, encapsulates some of the key research and teachings from Dr. Karla Hunter’s 30+ years as a communication scholar. Despite the title’s apparent contrast between the terms “real” and “virtual,” Hunter emphasizes that both are real communication with real consequences. She states, “Despite the fact that the virtual world continually moves us closer to physical presence, nuanced skills are needed for effective communication in emails, texting, Zoom meetings and YouTube videos as compared with face-to-face or even telephone interactions.”
Turning research findings into evidence-based communication practices to maximize personal and professional satisfaction and success, the text provides empowering self-assessment tools for enhancing your communication confidence and competence in personal and professional relationships. Students have praised the work for its uniquely digestible grounding in communication theory and its relatable modern examples, as well as its elevation and respectful understanding of diverse voices and audiences. Highlights of the text’s contributions for your personal communication toolbox include the following:
- Advanced tips for sending professional e-mails.
- Research-based insights on building intimacy and depth in a relationship.
- A personal listening assessment and enhancement exercise.
- Tools for enhancing your conflict management and forgiveness.
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Dedication
Acknowledgements
CHAPTER 1: Introduction to 21st Century Skills
CHAPTER 2: What is Interpersonal Development?
CHAPTER 3: Building Healthy Personal and Professional Relationships
CHAPTER 4: Verbal Communication
CHAPTER 5: Nonverbal Communication
CHAPTER 6: Listening Skills
CHAPTER 7: Relational Decay
CHAPTER 8: Conflict and Relational Repair
APPENDIX A: Interpersonal Development Toolbox: The Roommate Contract
Karla
Hunter
Karla M. Hunter, Ph.D., is a Professor of Communication Studies whose teaching, research, and service focus on interpersonal communication, health communication, conflict and forgiveness, listening competence, culturally responsive education, and community-engaged research. She earned a B.A. in Mass Communication from Augustana College and both an M.A. and Ph.D. in Communication Studies from the University of Oklahoma. Through collaborations with multidisciplinary teams and Indigenous communities, her work promotes wellness, relationship-centered learning, and community well-being. Hunter has secured significant external research funding, authored numerous scholarly publications and educational resources, and has led projects addressing educational persistence, health communication, and expanded educational opportunities for underserved populations.
NOLAN
BOWERS
Nolan Bowers is a communication scholar whose academic interests include communication theory, media studies, and the role of communication in contemporary society. He earned a master’s degree in communication and media studies from South Dakota State University, where he developed expertise in communication research, media analysis, and strategic messaging. His work focuses on understanding how communication shapes relationships, organizations, and public discourse.