Communication 101 - Module 1

Communication 101 - Module 1

• Defining Communication: The imparting or exchanging of information through speaking, writing, or any other medium.
• Communication is an integral part of daily life, enabling connections, sharing thoughts, ideas, and information.
• Communication is a process.

Modes of Communication

• Communication modes refer to how information is conveyed; purpose dictates the method (e.g., to inform, persuade, or evoke emotions).
• Informative/Efferent Mode: Focuses on factual information (e.g., reading a textbook).
• Aesthetic Mode: Engaging the reader or listener emotionally (e.g., a poem or story).
• Critical Mode: Evaluating and analyzing the text or message (e.g., identifying bias in news).
• Persuasive Mode: Convincing an audience.

Elements of Communication

• Sender/Encoder: The individual initiating the communication process and formulating the message.
• Message: The content of the communication, including information, ideas, and emotions.
• Receiver/Decoder: The person, people, or group receiving and interpreting the message.
• Medium: The method chosen to convey the message.
• Channel: The means by which the message is conveyed from the sender to the receiver.
• Feedback: The receiver's response to the sender's message, indicating understanding and interpretation.
• Noise: Any interference hindering smooth transmission and reception of a message.
• Context: The environment or situation in which communication occurs (situational or social).

Communication Process Model

• This framework illustrates how messages are exchanged between sender and receiver.
• The process involves sequential steps in successful communication: encoding, transmitting, decoding, and feedback.
• It emphasizes the dynamic and interactive nature of the communication process, where both sender and receiver participate actively.

Steps in the Communication Process

• Encoding: Sender conceptualizes the message and translates thoughts, ideas, and emotions for communication.
• Transmitting: Sender chooses the medium and channel to send the message.
• Decoding: Receiver interprets and assigns meaning to the message based on their understanding.
• Feedback: Receiver provides a response or reaction to the sender.

Factors Affecting Communication

• Context: Specific circumstances surrounding the communication process (e.g., physical setting, relationship).
• Noise: Distinctions or interruptions that disrupt smooth transmission (e.g., interference, distractions).
• Culture & Language (Differences): How messages are perceived and understood due to differences in customs.
• Biases: Inclination or prejudice against a person or group.
• Miscommunication: Mistakes in communication (intentional or unintentional).
• Misinformation & Disinformation: False, inaccurate, or misleading information (sometimes deliberate).
• Age (Differences): How communication varies among age groups (formal vs informal).
• Misinterpretation: Misunderstanding of the intended message (failure of sender or receiver).
• Gender-biased Language: Language favoring one gender over another.
• Fallacies of Reasoning: Errors in reasoning undermining logic in arguments (various types listed).

Types of Communication

• Verbal Communication: The use of spoken words and active listening.
• Non-verbal Communication: Uses body language, gestures, and facial expressions.
• Intrapersonal Communication: Communication with oneself (thinking, problem-solving).
• Interpersonal Communication: Communication between two or more people.
• Written Communication: Communication through written words, symbols, and characters.
• Visual Communication: Uses images, graphics, infographics, charts, and diagrams.
• Digital Communication: Communication through digital devices and platforms.
• Small Group Communication: Interaction among a small number of people.
• Organisational Communication: Communication within and between organizations.
• Intercultural Communication: Communication between individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
• Public & Academic Communication: Aimed at a public audience or academic community, often for persuasion.
• Mass Communication: Sharing information on a large scale via mass media.