Communication in natural settings: Research tool for undergraduates

The purpose of this essay was to describe the rationale and method of research in natural settings so that communication undergraduates may use these techniques. The author explains the concept of systematic observation and answers basic questions through the use of an illustration. The illustration is a case study of communication interaction on a commuter bus in metropolitan Washington, D.C. In the illustration, analysis is divided into verbal and nonverbal communication. The focus of attention is placed on how typical interactions differ from the unusual. Finally, the uses of this research in the classroom are discussed.