For three decades, Communication Technology Update and Fundamentals has set the standard as the single best resource for students and professionals looking to brush up on how communication technologies have developed, grown, and converged, as well as what’s in store for the future. The secret to the longevity is simple―every two years, the book is completely rewritten to ensure that it contains the latest developments in mass media, computers, consumer electronics, networking, and telephony. Plus, the book includes the Fundamentals: the first five chapters explain the communication technology ecosystem, the history, structure, and regulations. The chapters are written by experts who provide snapshots of the state of each individual field. Together, these updates provide a broad overview of these industries, as well as the role communication technologies play in our everyday lives. In addition to substantial updates to each chapter, the 16th edition includes:
- First-ever chapters on Virtual/Augmented Reality and eSports.
- Updated user data in every chapter.
- Overview of industry structure, including recent and proposed mergers and acquisitions
- Suggestions on how to get a job working with the technologies discussed.
- The companion website, www.tfi.com/ctu, offers updated information on the technologies covered in this text, as well as links to other resources.
Dr. August E. ("Augie") Grant is J. Rion McKissick Professor of Journalism and Director of the Center for Teaching Excellence at the University of South Carolina. Grant is a technology futurist who specializes in research on new media technologies and consumer behavior. His teaching and research combine the study of traditional and emerging media, with emphases on media management, organizational structure, integrated communication and consumer behavior. He’s been editor of Communication Technology Update and Fundamentals since 1992. His work in media convergence includes founding and serving for five years as Executive Editor of The Convergence Newsletter, chairing twelve national conferences on convergent journalism since 2002, and directing the Newsplex Summer Seminar program to train academics in convergent journalism.
Jennifer H. Meadows is Professor and Chair of the Department of Media Arts, Design, and Technology at California State University, Chico. Her teaching and research integrate practical and theoretical concerns related to television production, virtual reality, digital signage, the relationships between media and users, and changing media behavior in the new media marketplace. She has been working on the Communication Technology Update and Fundamentals since 1995 and has been co-editor since 1998.
Technology Futures, Inc. (TFI) provides top-quality custom studies and technology forecasts on key trends in communications, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and other high-tech fields. Founded in 1978, TFI’s specialties include technology forecasting, valuation, innovation, and business leadership. TFI brings to the table a futures focus, in-depth experience, a wide range of proven forecasting and analytic methods, and an excellent track-record of making valuable forecasts over several decades. www.tfi.com.
