Question

What term do we use to describe a very common and familiar editing pattern that switches between shots of different characters in conversation, often framed over each character’s shoulder?

Answer 1

Combining and coordinating several pieces with a particular citeria is known as editing; the thechnique used in cinema to switch between shots framed over each character's shoulder is called: "Shot/Reverse Shot" aka shot/countershot, it's used mainly for the sake of continuity, which gives the audience a sense of continuous action.